Name

African fat-tailed gecko

Scientific Name

Hemitheconyx caudincinctus

Characteristics

The African fat-tailed gecko is native to West Africa, from Senegal to northern Cameroon, living in dry and arid regions. They are nocturnal and spend most of their time on the ground.

This gecko’s normal colouring is brown with tan/beige stripes. Some have a thin white stripe along the length of their back. The colours and patterns of the gecko match the environment to provide camouflage. They are one of only a few species of gecko that have eyelids, which help to keep their eyes clean.

The African fat-tailed gecko has the ability to lose its tail when threatened or attacked. The tail is regenerated quite quickly, and the new tail will have a more rounded shape and may not match the body coloration and pattern of the gecko.

Diet

The African fat-tailed gecko is an insectivore.

Size Fact

They are typically 20-35 cm in length, with females being slightly larger than males.

Food Fact

Predators include snakes, frogs and foxes.

Fun Fact

This gecko can for go days without food due to storing fat in their tail.

IUCN Red list

The African fat-tailed gecko is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. 

Where do I live?

They are found in West Africa.