The Tale of Two Geckos

Geckos often evoke strong opinions; you either adore them or dislike them. They are quite impressive. Their outstanding climbing skills, their capacity to shed and regenerate tails, their distinctive vocalisations, and their adaptations for nighttime activity make them special and differentiate them from lizards. Additionally, they have specialised toe pads with microscopic hairs that enable them to stick to surfaces, and some species can alter their colour to blend into their surroundings. This blog focuses on two particular gecko species out of the approximately 165 species found in Southern Africa. The first gecko was thought to be extinct for 33 years, and the other is at risk of extinction.

A close-up of a green gecko

The Limpopo Dwarf Gecko

The Limpopo dwarf gecko includes several gecko species native to South Africa's Limpopo Province: the Waterberg dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus waterbergensis), the granite dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus graniticolus), and Methuen's dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus meutheni). Additionally, the black-spotted dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus nigropunctatus) is found in Limpopo, as well as in other provinces. 

The Methuen's dwarf gecko is primarily located in Haenertsburg, Limpopo. It faces a significant risk of extinction and has been reclassified as endangered. This change in status is attributed to the substantial habitat loss resulting from the expansion of pine plantations, which have replaced the grasslands essential for the gecko's survival. The gecko is now only found in small patches between the tree plantations. Researchers are worried that the gecko may vanish if its remaining habitat is not safeguarded. 

Methuen's dwarf geckos are insectivores, which means they mainly feed on insects. They also eat some fruits and other invertebrates, making them partially frugivorous as well. In their natural habitat, they are known to consume ants, termites, and various small insects and invertebrates. The Methuen's dwarf gecko is a small, brown, and black creature with a few spots, typically reaching a length of about 7-9 cm, with its tail making up a significant portion of its overall length. It enjoys crawling on rocks, but these rocks need to be in its natural habitat. In captivity, these geckos live for approximately 5 to 10 years.

Methuen's Dwarf Gecko (picture courtesy of Endangered Wildlife Trust)

The Blyde Rondavel Flat Gecko

Afroedura rondavelica, commonly known as the Blyde River flat gecko or rondavel rock gecko, is a gecko species from Africa that was first identified in the Blyde River Canyon. Its name, both specific and common, is inspired by the rondavel, a type of hut structure found in southern Africa. The Blyde River is situated in the Mpumalanga province, South Africa. It is part of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, also called the Motlatse Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve.

Researchers from the Endangered Wildlife Trust have rediscovered the Blyde Rondavel flat gecko, which had not been seen for over 30 years. Since first being identified in 1991, when two of these geckos were discovered on a cliff face high above the Blyde River Canyon, the gecko's location remained unknown. Recently, two researchers located the elusive species in a remote canyon that can only be accessed by helicopter. In fact, they had to survive a helicopter crash that stranded Dr. Jacobsen and his team for two days to make this remarkable discovery. Excitingly, the gecko once thought "lost" is not extinct but classified as 'data deficient' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, offering hope for its survival.

Blyde Rondavel Flat geckos primarily consume insects, classifying them as insectivores. They are excellent climbers and are noted for eating mosquitoes, moths, cockroaches and beetles. Some species may also consume fruit or nectar.

The Blyde Rondavel flat gecko is a small gecko that usually measures 8 to 9 cm in length. They have a better chance of being found in the area between Musina and Eswatini. Although the precise lifespan is not known, it is observed that similar gecko species in the wild typically live for 5 to 10 years, with some reaching up to 20 years in captivity. As the Blyde Rondavel flat gecko was only recently rediscovered, additional research is required to ascertain its exact lifespan.

Blyde Rondavel Flat Gecko (picture courtesy of Endangered Wildlife Trust)

What is the difference between a gecko and a lizard?

Although every gecko is a lizard, not every lizard is a gecko. Geckos are a particular species of lizard, identified by features such as their small size, sticky toe pads, nocturnal behaviour, and distinctive vocal sounds. 

The sound a gecko makes (YouTube)

What do geckos symbolise?

Geckos represent adaptability, resilience, and transformation. Their capacity to lose and regrow their tails symbolises regeneration and the discarding of old habits, while their presence in diverse environments signifies adaptability to change. Additionally, in some cultures, geckos are seen as symbols of good luck and intelligence. 

To sum up

Geckos evoke mixed emotions, being either loved or disliked, especially when they enter human homes. Their presence is both beneficial and alarming. Some people enjoy seeing them, while others feel uncomfortable.

Geckos play a crucial role in ecosystems and homes by controlling insect populations like mosquitoes and flies. They make fascinating pets due to their adaptability and diverse colours and patterns. As low-maintenance pets, they are suitable for those with limited time or resources. Their climbing and vocalising behaviours showcase their intelligence. While some see them as pests, it's important to appreciate their ecological benefits and the joy they bring as companions.

Sources:

1) Researchers sound alarm over Limpopo dwarf Gecko as pine plantations overrun its habitat - News 24.

2) ‘Lost’ Gecko Rediscovered After 33 Years in Blyde River Canyon - Endangered Wildlife Trust

3) Hide-and-Seek Champ: Gecko Found After 33 Years! - BBC Newsround