Tokay Gecko

Gekko gecko

"Fair Choice" Pet Fair Choice

The Tokay Gecko is the world’s second-largest gecko species, growing up to 15 inches long. It is native to rainforest and cliff habitats from northeast India and Bangladesh, through Southeast Asia, to Indonesia and western New Guinea. It frequently adapts to rural human habitations, roaming walls and ceilings at night in search of insect prey. In the late 1980s, these geckos were introduced to Hawaii, Florida, Texas, Belize, and several Caribbean islands; self-sustaining populations are now established in these locations. The species typically lives 7 to 10 years in the wild, but some individuals have survived more than 18 years in captivity. Tokay Geckos are renowned for their loud vocalizations.

Did You Know?

The Tokay Gecko is the world’s second-largest gecko species.

Source Sustainability Best Choice

Does the harvest for wildlife trade or captive breeding of this species harm wild populations?

Little Cause for Concern

Wild populations of Tokay Geckos are not at risk of extinction.

PetWatch Recommendation:

When purchasing a Tokay Gecko, ask for proof that it is captive bred from domesticated animals. Generally, purchasing captive-raised individuals decreases pressure on wild populations. In addition, as with other reptiles, captive-bred individuals usually are healthier and longer-lived than wild-caught animals. Only acquire a pet that is from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder or dealer to ensure that you are not buying an illegally wild-caught and/or imported animal.

Invasion Threat Fair Choice

Does the release or escape of this species into the wild harm the environment and/or economy?

Some Cause for Concern

The Tokay Gecko is considered an invasive species. It was introduced to Hawaii, Florida, Texas, Belize, and several Caribbean islands in the late 1980s and early 1990s and established self-sustaining populations in these locations. At this time, little is known about the potential impacts of these introduced geckos on native wildlife or habitats.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Before obtaining a Tokay Gecko, make sure that it is legal to own one in your state of residence and check for permitting requirements. Always keep your pet inside a safe and secure enclosure. Never release a pet into the wild.

Animal Welfare Fair Choice

Does harvest, captive breeding, transport, or being kept as a pet harm individual animals?

Some Cause for Concern

Tokay Geckos often have voracious appetites and require daily meals of live prey such as crickets, mealworms, cockroaches, and baby mice. Male geckos are very territorial; they will attack other males, other gecko species, and almost anything else in the territory. The Tokay Gecko is best kept as a solitary pet.

PetWatch Recommendation:

When purchasing a pet Tokay Gecko, ask for proof that the animal was bred or collected by a reputable USDA-licensed breeder/dealer. Given the lack of oversight, animals in the illegal wildlife trade may be mistreated. Talk to your veterinarian about the proper diet and how to maintain a healthy weight for your pet.

Health Threat Fair Choice

Does this animal pose a health risk to native wildlife, humans, livestock and agriculture?

Some Cause for Concern

Tokay Geckos are large and aggressive, and often bite their owners. They have a powerful bite and are considered the "bulldogs" of the gecko world because once they bite, they may hold on for hours or even days; in fact, they generally cannot be forcibly extracted from the victim without injuring the gecko. Tokay Geckos are not recommended as pets for children.

Tokay Geckos also carry Salmonella, which if ingested can cause vomiting and diarrhea; these symptoms are usually mild in healthy adults but can be fatal to infants and young children, or anyone with a compromised immune system. It is important to wash hands before and after each time an animal is handled. Salmonella can be transmitted from exotic pets to any member of a household, even those who do not handle the pet directly.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Due to the potential for disease transmission to humans and other household pets, acquire a Tokay Gecko that has a documented health history and is from a reputable USDA-licensed breeder/distributor. Be sure to ask for proof of a clean bill of health and that the animal has been checked by a certified veterinarian. Obtain a list of any medical treatments the animal has received.

EcoHealth Alliance works at the intersection of ecosystem, animal and human health through local conservation programs and develops global health solutions to emerging diseases.
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