The Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is a large, robust gecko species known for its vivid blue-gray skin adorned with bright orange or red spots and its distinctive loud vocalizations, making it one of the largest and most striking geckos in the world.
First scientifically described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, the Tokay Gecko originates from Southeast Asia, with its type locality in Java, Indonesia. Over time, it has adapted to thrive in both natural and urban environments across its native range and has been introduced to places like Florida, USA.
The Tokay Gecko belongs to the genus Gekko within the family Gekkonidae, a diverse group of geckos characterized by their adhesive toe pads and nocturnal habits. Its scientific name is Gekko gecko, with historical synonyms including Lacerta gecko Linnaeus, 1758.
This gecko is notable for its large size, reaching up to 35 centimeters in total length. It has a robust body, broad head, and specialized adhesive toe pads that enable agile climbing. Its striking coloration features a blue-gray background punctuated by vivid orange or red spots, with some regional and individual variation adding to its visual appeal.
The Tokay Gecko is primarily nocturnal and highly vocal, famous for its distinctive “to-kay” call that serves territorial and communication purposes. It exhibits territorial behavior and is an adept climber. Its diet mainly consists of insects, though it occasionally preys on small vertebrates. In captivity, it requires secure enclosures due to its strength and tendency to bite when threatened.
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Buy ShirtIn various Southeast Asian cultures, the Tokay Gecko is revered and often appears in traditional medicine, believed to possess healing properties despite lacking scientific validation. It is also a popular species in the exotic pet trade, admired for its striking appearance and vocal nature. Regional names such as “Tuko,” “Tokek,” and “Tohkeh” reflect its cultural presence across its native range.
The Tokay Gecko inhabits a variety of natural and urban environments across Southeast Asia, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to disturbed habitats. It is commonly found on trees, buildings, and rocky areas. Outside its native range, established populations exist in places like Florida, USA, where it has been introduced.
This species is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide range of insects. It may also consume small vertebrates when available. Its nocturnal hunting habits and agile climbing ability allow it to exploit diverse prey in its environment.
The Tokay Gecko is oviparous, laying clutches of one to two hard-shelled eggs. These eggs are often adhered to surfaces such as tree bark or walls. Details on lifespan are limited, but the species undergoes typical gecko developmental stages from egg to juvenile to adult.
While adaptable, the Tokay Gecko faces threats from habitat loss and overcollection driven by demand in the pet trade and traditional medicine. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and regulating trade to ensure sustainable populations.
Widely kept and bred in captivity, the Tokay Gecko requires secure enclosures due to its strength and defensive biting behavior. Proper husbandry includes providing climbing structures, maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity, and offering a diet rich in insects. Captive breeding is common, helping to reduce pressure on wild populations.
