Moorish gecko

Description:

Moorish Geckos differ in appearance according to sex, however both reach lengths of up to 15cm. Females appear greyish, and males, though also grey, are characterized by four white marks on their shoulder region, along with brown patterning. The underside of both sexes are completely white.  Their bodies are wide and flat. 

Basic biology:

Moorish Geckos are generally crepuscular or nocturnal, but may also be active on sunny days. Their diet is mainly comprised of insects, with the stiff hairs on their feet allowing them to climb vertical surfaces and catch insects efficiently. This species is slow to mature, with females laying a pair of spherical eggs twice a year. 

Distribution in Malta:

Widespread in Malta and Gozo.

Global distribution:

Algeria, Croatia, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Libya, Morocco, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Tunisia, Western Sahara, Argentina, the USA and Uruguay. 

Condition:

Native.

Protection status:

• Protected by Schedule VI of Local Legislation 549.44.

Map of confirmed presence:

Please note that this map is not exhaustive, but does indicate where there have been confirmed observations of this species.

We invite you to submit any additional observations using the form provided here.