Description

No native geckos are found in Mississippi, however, two potential nonnative species may be found. Spotted House Geckos are relatively common in the neighboring state of Louisiana, and are hypothesized to be expanding east and west via Interstate Highway 10. Geckos are most often seen at night ambushing insects near light fixtures on building walls and surfaces. The Spotted House Gecko is cream-colored or translucent, with dark spotting generally present in three distinct rows on the back. Tubercles are much more reduced than in H. turcicus. Only one county has a confirmed observation (Howell, Maldonado, & Grimes, unpublished data).

Identifying Traits

• Spots in three rows
• Tubercles reduced (separates from Mediterranean house gecko)

Habitat

Buildings in developed areas

Behavior

Active at night, often hunt insects near light sources on gas stations, cement structures, houses, other buildings

Diet

Various invertebrates