Phelsuma grandis
Least Concern
STATUS
Least Concern
SIZE
9-11 in (23-28 cm)
LIFESPAN
5-10 years
HABITAT
Rainforest
DIET
Insects, nectar, pollen, sap, ripe fruit
LIFESTYLE
Diurnal
Arboreal
Solitary
THREATS
Habitat Loss
Deforestation
Collection for Pet Trade
INTERESTING FACTS
Geckos are the only lizards that produce more than a hiss or other simple sound. Their vocalizations range from squeaks and clicks to barks and croaks.
Adhesive scales, called lemellae, on a day gecko’s toes help it grip tree bark and even cling to smooth surfaces.
Giant day geckos do not have eyelids that move, so to keep their eyes clean, they lick them with their long tongue.
If a day gecko is stressed, or to warn off another gecko, their color gets darker, a visual cue used to communicate.
Characteristics
One of the largest gecko species in the world, this brilliant green lizard may seem conspicuous, but in the tropical rainforest, it actually blends in surprisingly well. The vibrant colors, especially in males, most likely evolved to catch the eye of mates or signal rivals. In addition to the greens and blues, this gecko species has spots, streaks, and bars of red to orange on the head, neck, and back, which vary among individuals. Younger geckos often have more red markings than the adults, but some fade over time. Day geckos do not have claws, but their broad, flattened toes have adhesive scales that grip tree bark as they climb. Their long tail also helps them balance among the branches.
Behavior
Giant day geckos are agile climbers, seldom seen on the ground. They are active during the day—hence the name—and may be seen scurrying across tree trunks and climbing branches in search of food. They rely mostly on sight to stay aware of their environment. When hunting or hiding, they move more slowly, but they can dash very quickly if they need to. At night, they retreat into cracks and crevices where they can rest in relative safety. Giant day geckos have a distinct call that resembles the sound of a frog, which is made by using their very large tongue to produce a clicking sound against the roof of the mouth.
Diet
These day geckos feed mainly on various insects and other invertebrates, and occasionally have been recorded consuming small vertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, and the pollen and nectar from flowers. They get water from the condensation that gathers on leaves.
Habitat
Giant day geckos are native to the tropical and subtropical rainforests of eastern Madagascar and some islands. They inhabit trees and bamboo groves, often basking in filtered sunlight. They prefer warm temperatures and seem to be partial to palms and banana plants.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
The breeding season for giant day geckos is between December and June. Males and females engage in a courtship phase during mating. Sexually mature males have pores on the backs of their legs that become enlarged with a waxy substance that gives off a scent to attract females. A male will approach a female with a jerky head motion, and if the female is receptive, she responds with rapid tongue flicking.
Females lay egg clutches from January to July, and one female may produce multiple clutches in a single breeding season. A clutch usually consists of two eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of 47 to 82 days. Upon hatching, the young geckos are immediately independent and feed on small insects. Day geckos become sexually mature within one to two years.
Conservation and Threats
Giant day geckos are endemic to Madagascar, widely distributed throughout northern portions of the island, although they have been introduced to other places, where they can actually become invasive. Habitat destruction and deforestation are their primary threats.