Species Details

@Antonio Rodríguez Arduengo

Flat-tailed Gecko Did you see this animal?

Scientific Name : Hemidactylus platyurus
Family : Gekkonidae
Order : Squamata
Class : Reptilia
Phylum : Chordata
Habitat : All types of forests except Sundarban
 
Description : The Flat-tailed Gecko is a relatively small lizard, with adults typically reaching lengths of 3 to 5 inches (7 to 13 cm).

This species is named for its distinctive flat tail, which is wider than its body and has a leaf-like shape. Its body is generally tan or gray, with a pattern of darker spots or stripes on its back.

Flat-tailed Geckos are found in arid regions, such as deserts and semi-arid grasslands. They prefer areas with sandy or rocky soil, where they can burrow into the ground to escape the heat of the day.

These geckos are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they will typically hide in burrows or under rocks to avoid the heat. They are also known for their ability to climb vertical surfaces, thanks to specialized toe pads on their feet.

The Flat-tailed Gecko is an insectivore, feeding primarily on small insects such as crickets and beetles.

Like many geckos, Flat-tailed Geckos lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young. Females can lay up to two clutches of eggs per year, with each clutch typically containing 1-2 eggs.

The Flat-tailed Gecko is considered a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), meaning it is not currently at risk of extinction. However, its habitat is threatened by development and other human activities, which could impact its populations in the future.
 
Distribution in Bangladesh
References:
description written by: Durjoy Raha Antu,Department of Zoology, Jagannath University,Dhaka; information source:Khan 2018 (Photographic guide to the wildlife of Bangladesh). photo credit:Antonio Rodríguez Arduengo(www.inaturalist.org/people/Antonio Rodríguez Arduengo), photo copyright: iNaturalist. more information please contact with us.