The Mediterranean Gecko Comes to America

It always interests me to learn about how and why foreign species have been introduced to the local area. That is why I looked into the story behind the Mediterranean gecko’s (Hemidactylus turcicus) voyage to America. As its name implies, the med gecko is native to southern Europe; however, its fairly recent proliferation across the globe has made it one of the most successful and resilient species of gecko in the world. These European immigrants first arrived in Florida where they are now widely distributed, but their arrival was not a planned one. It is believed that individuals and egg clutches were unknowingly transported with cargo on aircraft or shipping vessels. Fortunately, these little fellas are not considered invasive and seem to fit into southeastern ecology just fine.

Med geckos—the only species of gecko found in SC—are readily distinguishable from other native lizards. Their bumpy skin coloration can range from a tannish-grey to a translucent pinkish-white, and many often have dark mottling patterns along the top of their body. They also have huge, bulging eyes with vertical pupils. Their large, sticky toepads are easily recognizable and characteristic of the gecko family. Med geckos are relatively small and rarely exceed 5 inches in length.

Urban areas seem to be the primary habitat of this species throughout its scattered Southeastern range. However, Med geckos are not commonly seen because they are completely nocturnal. The best chance you have at seeing one is on a warm, late night around a window or near lights that attract insects. This is because they are vicious predators of moths, spiders and other insects. I remember as a child at my grandmother's house in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, I would always have to catch the little Med gecko's that would find their way inside. Every night they would scurry across the window screens snacking on the bugs that were drawn to the light. During the day they hide inside walls, crevices, or underneath tree bark. There are certainly not quite as many here in Charleston, but you can still find them on walls or trashcans downtown in the summertime.

Firmly established in Florida, the Mediterranean gecko is expanding northwards and has been found as far up as West Virginia. These populations are scattered and are primarily in urban areas, so it is difficult to tell whether further population growth will have any effect on surrounding ecology. Personally, I do not see them as a potential threat to other species because of their small size and insectivorous diet. In addition, female Med gecko’s reproduce during the summer, laying a few clutches of only two eggs at a time.