Details

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Common Name: Common House Gecko

• Scientific Name: Hemidactylus frenatus

• Family: Gekkonidae

• Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)

• Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Global invasive/cosmopolitan)

• Adult Size: 7 – 15 cm (3 – 6 inches)

• Lifespan: 3 – 5 years

• Diet: Insectivore (Small insects, moths, mosquitoes)

The Common House Gecko, or "Chichak," is likely the most recognizable lizard on earth. They have soft, translucent skin that ranges from pale grey/white at night to darker brown during the day. They possess vocal cords and make a distinctive "chuk-chuk-chuk" clicking sound. They are equipped with toe pads that allow them to climb glass and walls effortlessly.

Notes Primary Use: In the exotic trade, these are primarily sold as feeder lizards for snake-eating species (like the Vine Snakes or King Cobras listed earlier). However, they can also be kept as simple, hardy pets for children or beginners.
Hardiness: Extremely robust and adaptable.

Why Source This Species:

• Essential Feeder: Vital food source for specialized reptile eaters (Asian Vine Snakes, Coral Snakes, etc.).

• Bio-Active Clean Up: They are excellent at hunting escaped fruit flies or gnats in large bio-active vivariums.

• Ultra-Low Cost: At $2, they are the cheapest entry point into keeping a reptile.