Common gecko

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Common gecko
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Gekkonidae
Genus: Hoplodactylus
Species: H. maculatus
Binomial name
Hoplodactylus maculatus

The common gecko, Hoplodactylus maculatus, is a species of gecko in the family Gekkonidae. The specific epithet maculatus means "speckled" and refers to the distinctive spots found on the type specimen.[1]

Contents

[edit] Distribution

The common gecko is endemic to New Zealand, widespread in the North Island, especially in coastal regions. Widespread throughout the South Island. Rare on Stewart Island.

[edit] Habitat

Forests, scrub and grassland, from seashore to alpine vegetation zone.

[edit] Description

Coloration is a variety of shades of brown and grey, with paler patches which may be stripey, or irregular markings, with a paler underside. The head is broad in relation to the body.

[edit] Ecology

The common gecko spends much of its time on the ground, but does climb tees and shrubs, and sun-basks.

[edit] References

  1. ^ New Zealand Frogs and Reptiles, Brian Gill and Tony Whitaker, David Bateman limited, 2001
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