Geckos (Gekkonidae; geitjies)
In most cases, geckos are easily distinguished from other lizards in that they have large eyes, lacking movable eyelids (these having become fused and transparant so that each eye is covered by a spectacle) and in that most species have adhesive toe pads (scansors) that allow them to ‘stick' to seemingly smooth surfaces. Most are nocturnal and they live in a large variety of different habitats. All are oviparous and usually lay two, relatively large, hard-shelled eggs. Many have adapted well to urbanization and live in buildings, and have spread around the world by hiding in goods and ships. Geckos form the largest lizard group in South Africa and no less than 61 species occur here.
Species occurring in the GCBC:
Bibron's Gecko
Cederberg Dwarf Leaf-toed Gecko
Marbled Leaf-toed Gecko
Marico Thick-toed Gecko
Ocellated Thick-toed Gecko
Small-scaled Leaf-toed Gecko
Southern Rough Gecko
Austen's Gecko
Striped Dwarf Leaf-toed Gecko
Western Cape Thick-toed Gecko
Weber's Thick-toed Gecko
Western Spotted Thick-toed Gecko
