Details

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Common Name: Malayan Banded Bent-Toed Gecko

• Scientific Name: Cyrtodactylus pulchellus

• Family: Gekkonidae

• Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)

• Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic

• Origin: Peninsular Malaysia (Highland and Lowland forests)

• Adult Size: 20 – 25 cm (8 – 10 inches)

• Lifespan: 5 – 8 years

• Diet: Insectivore (Crickets, roaches, mealworms)

The Malayan Banded Gecko is widely considered the most attractive member of the Bent-Toed Gecko family. It features a cream or light yellow body marked with broad, bold chocolate-brown bands. They have large, golden-brown eyes ("cat eyes") and long, slender limbs. Unlike house geckos, they have clawed toes without sticky pads, giving them a distinct, bird-like grip.

Notes Husbandry: These are forest floor and rock-dwelling geckos. They require a textured environment (cork bark backgrounds, rocks, driftwood) to climb, as they cannot climb smooth glass. They prefer cooler, humid environments typical of Malaysian forests.
Behavior: Nocturnal and moderately active. They can be fast when startled but generally tolerate gentle handling better than smaller species.

Why Source This Species:

• Striking Pattern: The clean, high-contrast banding makes them a visual standout compared to the dull brown of most forest geckos.

• Hardy Captive: They are robust eaters and adapt well to naturalistic vivariums, making them excellent for intermediate keepers.

• Active Hunter: Watching them stalk insects with their raised bodies and twitching tails is very entertaining.