River Scout

Madagscar giant day gecko

(Phelsuma madagascariensis grandis)

The Madagascar giant day gecko is found in northern and northwestern Madagascar. It lives in bushes and trees in temperate forested areas, but can also be encountered around settlements and buildings. This species is active during the day, while many other geckos are nocturnal.

Adults are usually about 8 to 9 inches long, but some may grow to almost 11 inches. Its tail makes up about half of its length. Adults are bright green in color with daubs and streaks of red to orange. Hatchlings are a dull olive color and about 2½ inches long. The gecko feeds on insects and sweet plant foods such as bananas and flower nectar.

Come to the Aquarium to see the traveling GEICO Gecko exhibit, which is here for a limited time.

Fun Facts

• The toe pads of the gecko consist of rows of flap-like plates covered with thousands of microscopic hook-like projections that can catch onto any surface and allow it to climb glass windows and cling to ceilings.
• The day gecko and most other gecko species are the only lizards that can produce sounds other than a hiss.
• Their vocalizations range from squeaks and clicks to barks and groans, depending on species.
• The name “gecko” is believed to originate from the sound of some of these vocalizations.
• The Madagascar giant day gecko has been introduced into several locations in the U.S. It has established reproducing colonies on several Florida Keys.
• Download full fact sheet

Plan Your Visit