Ocelot gecko

The ocelot gecko (Paroedura picta) is a crepuscular ground-dwelling gecko found in leaf litter in Madagascar forests[1] and is also a popular pet. It is sometimes known as the Madagascar ground gecko, Malagasy fat-tailed gecko, fat-headed gecko, panther gecko or pictus gecko

Ocelot gecko
Arboretum d'Antsokay, Madagascar
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Gekkonidae
Genus: Paroedura
Species:
P. picta
Binomial name
Paroedura picta
Peters, 1854
Synonyms
  • Diplodactylus pictus
  • Phyllodactylus pictus
  • Paroedura pictus

Characteristics

P. picta naturally occurs as a brown lizard with black markings. Some individuals may also have a white dorsal stripe. In captivity, there are several color phases available including hypo, orange, anerythristic, and amelanistic (yellow).

They usually reach a size of 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), with some well-cared-for males reaching 8 inches (20 cm). Overall, they are smaller than the average gecko. These creatures feature slender, elongated bodies and narrow, pointed heads, and come in a range of colors. The colors usually involve shades of brown, grey, and cream, with markings or spots that resemble ocelot spots. They also have large, rounded eyes with vertical pupils and sticky toe pads that allow them to climb and adhere to surfaces.[2]

The ocelot gecko is not a true climbing gecko, but does have the capability to climb a few surfaces. In captivity, it has been known to scale the sides of glass terrariums if startled.

They are exclusively insectivorous.

They are nocturnal creatures. They spend their days hiding in crevices or under rocks. They are best observed during their preferred hunting time, between dusk and dawn.[3]

In captivity

These geckos do well in captivity but do not like being handled and may bite if scared. They can live in captivity for between six and ten years.[4]

References
  1. Glaw, Frank; Vences, Miguel (2007). A Field Guide to the Amphibians and Reptiles of Madagascar (3rd ed.). Cologne, Germany: Vences & Glaw Verlags. ISBN 978-3929449037.
  2. Kataria, Kaajal (2023-01-11). "Ocelot Gecko Care Sheet: How To Care For Ocelot Gecko". Pet Engineers. Retrieved 2023-03-20.
  3. "Pictus Gecko Care". TheGeckoSpot.net. Archived from the original on 2019-08-16. Retrieved 2018-09-17.
  4. Bergman, Julie. "Madagascar Ground Gecko Care Sheet". Reptiles Magazine. Archived from the original on 2019-08-04. Retrieved 2018-08-09.
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