Tokay Gecko
Gekko gecko
The Tokay gecko, Gekko gecko, is a large nocturnal gecko native to South and Southeast Asia, where it lives on tree trunks, cliffs, houses, and other vertical surfaces. It is famous in the pet trade for a blue-gray body covered with orange to red spots and for the loud two-syllable call that gives the species its common name. Strong toe pads let it climb glass and walls, and adults can be territorial, vocal, and quick to bite when restrained. Captive-bred lines now include pattern and color morphs, but many ordinary Tokays in trade have historically been wild caught.
A Tokay is usually better treated as a display reptile than a handling pet. Good husbandry uses a tall enclosure with secure doors, climbing cork or branches, tight hides, humid nighttime conditions, and a warm basking area. They eat crickets, roaches, locusts, and other appropriately sized insects dusted as needed for calcium and vitamins. Captive-bred juveniles tend to settle more reliably than imported adults, which may arrive stressed or parasite-laden. International trade is monitored, and buyers should expect documentation where required rather than anonymous, newly imported animals.
