The United States, often imagined as a land of squirrels and deer, is also a surprisingly diverse home for geckos. While many people think of geckos as exotic pets, several fascinating species are native to the American Southwest and Florida. Even more prolific are the numerous introduced species, primarily from warmer climates around the globe, that have found new homes in our urban centers and tropical regions.
From the tiny, camouflaged natives of our deserts to the vibrant, vocal invaders living on our city walls, this guide will introduce you to every significant gecko species you can find across the U.S. Get ready to explore the hidden lives of these incredible reptiles, state by state, species by species.
In the United States, geckos are divided into two distinct groups: Native species (found mostly in the Southwest and Florida) and Introduced species (which have spread across at least 22 states).
Here is the breakdown of gecko types by state and category.
Post Contents
- 🟢 Native Geckos (The “Originals”)
- 🔴 Introduced & Invasive Geckos
- The Native Americans – Indigenous Geckos of the U.S.
- 1. Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus)
- 2. Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis)
- 3. Reticulate Banded Gecko (Coleonyx reticulatus)
- 4. Peninsular Leaf-toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus nocticolus)
- 5. Barefoot Gecko (Coleonyx switaki)
- 6. Florida Reef Gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus)
- 7. Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Subspecies – Variations of Native Geckos
- 1. San Diego Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus abbotti)
- 2. Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- 3. Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
- 4. Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia)
- 5. Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
- 6. Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
- 7. Madagascar Giant Day Gecko (Phelsuma grandis)
- 8. Gold Dust Day Gecko (Phelsuma laticauda)
- 9. Yellow-headed Gecko (Gonatodes albogularis)
- 10. Moorish Wall Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica)
- 11. Rough-Tailed Gecko (Cyrtopodion scabrum)
- 12. White-Spotted Wall Gecko (Tarentola annularis)
- 🦎 Geckos in the United States by State
- Summary: The Future of U.S. Geckos
🟢 Native Geckos (The “Originals”)
These species are part of the natural ecosystem and are primarily concentrated in the desert regions.
| Species | States Found | Key Habitat |
| Western Banded Gecko | AZ, CA, NV, NM, UT | Desert scrub, rocky outcrops. |
| Texas Banded Gecko | TX, NM | Arid canyons, limestone crevices. |
| Reticulate Banded Gecko | TX (Big Bend region) | Deep rock crevices; rare and large. |
| Peninsular Leaf-toed Gecko | CA (Southern) | Large boulders and rocky canyons. |
| Barefoot Gecko | CA (Southern) | Specialized rock dweller; largest native gecko. |
| Florida Reef Gecko | FL (Keys & Southern tip) | Leaf litter, mangroves, and pinelands. |
🔴 Introduced & Invasive Geckos
These species arrived via the pet trade or shipping containers. Some are limited to small urban pockets, while others have colonized half the country.
The Wide-Ranging Geckos
- Mediterranean House Gecko: The most widespread gecko in the U.S. Established in: AL, AR, AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NV, NM, NC, OK, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA.
- Indo-Pacific Gecko: A “parthenogenetic” species (all females). Established in: AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, TX.
The Tropical Hotspots
These states have the highest diversity of introduced species due to their warm climates:
- Florida: Home to over 15 introduced species, including the Tokay Gecko, Madagascar Giant Day Gecko, Yellow-headed Gecko, Mourning Gecko, Ashy Gecko, and Tropical House Gecko.
- Hawaii: Nearly all geckos are introduced. Common types include the Gold Dust Day Gecko, Stump-toed Gecko, Orange-spotted Day Gecko, and Common House Gecko.
The “Local” Invaders
- Louisiana: Features the Sri Lankan House Gecko, found specifically around New Orleans’ Audubon Park.
- Texas: Features the Rough-Tailed Gecko, found almost exclusively around the shipping docks in Galveston.
- California: Aside from the house geckos, it hosts the Moorish (Crocodile) Gecko and the White-spotted Wall Gecko in urban San Diego and L.A.
The Native Americans – Indigenous Geckos of the U.S.
Our native geckos are a testament to the diverse ecosystems of the American Southwest and a small pocket of Florida. Unlike their introduced counterparts, these species have evolved over millennia to thrive in very specific, often harsh, environments. They are generally nocturnal, shy, and masters of camouflage, making them a rare and special find.
1. Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus)
The Western Banded Gecko is arguably the most widespread native gecko in the United States, gracing the arid landscapes of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Known for its soft, velvety skin and distinct banding patterns of tan, yellow, or pinkish-brown against a lighter background, this nocturnal reptile is a master of camouflage in its desert scrub and rocky outcrop habitats. Unlike many geckos, Coleonyx variegatus possesses movable eyelids, a unique feature among geckos in general. They primarily hunt insects and spiders under the cover of darkness, retreating into burrows or beneath rocks during the day to escape the desert’s harsh sun. Their presence is a good indicator of a healthy desert ecosystem.
2. Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis)
Sharing the genus Coleonyx with its western cousin, the Texas Banded Gecko thrives in the arid canyons and limestone crevices of Texas and southeastern New Mexico. It sports wider, often more pronounced dark bands compared to the Western Banded Gecko, with a base color that can range from light tan to yellowish. Like all banded geckos, it is strictly nocturnal, emerging after sunset to forage for small invertebrates. This species is slightly more robust than the Western Banded Gecko and is particularly adapted to the rocky, often sparse, vegetation found in its preferred habitats. Their elusive nature makes spotting them a special treat for herpetology enthusiasts.
3. Reticulate Banded Gecko (Coleonyx reticulatus)
The Reticulate Banded Gecko is a true Texas exclusive, with its known range confined almost entirely to the remote and rugged Big Bend region. This species stands out with its intricate, net-like (reticulated) pattern of dark markings over a lighter background, often giving it a more marbled appearance than its banded relatives. It is also one of the largest native geckos in the U.S., adding to its distinctiveness. Coleonyx reticulatus is exceptionally shy and highly specialized, preferring to inhabit deep rock crevices and rocky canyons, which makes it particularly difficult for researchers and enthusiasts to observe in the wild. Its restricted range highlights its vulnerability and unique ecological niche.
4. Peninsular Leaf-toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus nocticolus)
The Peninsular Leaf-toed Gecko is a specialized native resident of Southern California, particularly in rocky areas and canyons. Its most distinguishing feature, as its name suggests, are its uniquely shaped toe pads, which are flattened and expanded at the tip, resembling small leaves or spatulas. These specialized toes allow it exceptional grip on rock surfaces, making it an agile climber in its preferred habitat of large boulders and rock faces. This gecko is nocturnal and preys on small invertebrates. Its coloration is typically a mottled gray or tan, providing excellent camouflage against granite and other rocks. The Peninsular Leaf-toed Gecko is a remarkable example of adaptation to specific, challenging environments.
5. Barefoot Gecko (Coleonyx switaki)
The Barefoot Gecko, also known as Switak’s Banded Gecko, is another native Californian species, predominantly found in the arid, rocky regions of Southern California, particularly within the Peninsular Ranges. It stands out as the largest of the native Coleonyx geckos, reaching lengths of up to 6 inches. Its common name “Barefoot” refers to its granular, rather than banded, appearance on some parts of its body, although it still exhibits a mottled or speckled pattern of browns and tans for camouflage against rocks and sandy substrates. Like its banded relatives, it is nocturnal and possesses movable eyelids. This gecko is highly specialized for rocky habitats, often found wedged in crevices during the day, emerging at night to hunt insects and other small invertebrates across the desert floor. Its robust build and elusive nature make it a fascinating subject for herpetologists.
6. Florida Reef Gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus)
The Florida Reef Gecko holds the unique distinction of being the only native gecko species in the Eastern United States, primarily inhabiting the Florida Keys and the southernmost tip of mainland Florida. This tiny gecko is one of the smallest reptiles in North America, typically measuring less than 2 inches in length. Its coloration varies, often presenting as mottled brown, gray, or reddish, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the leaf litter, bark, and rocky crevices of its preferred mangrove and pineland habitats. Unlike the Coleonyx geckos, it lacks movable eyelids. The Florida Reef Gecko is mostly nocturnal but can sometimes be observed foraging during the day in shaded areas. Its diminutive size and secretive nature make it an often-overlooked but truly indigenous gem of Florida’s unique ecosystem.
7. Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
The Mediterranean house gecko is one of the most widespread gecko species in the United States. Originally native to southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, it arrived in North America through shipping routes and quickly adapted to urban environments.
This species typically grows between 4–5 inches long and has pale gray or tan skin covered with small bumps that give it a slightly translucent appearance. Mediterranean house geckos are nocturnal and frequently gather near porch lights where insects are abundant. Their ability to thrive around human structures has helped them expand rapidly across warmer states.
Despite being non-native, they are generally considered harmless and even beneficial because they control insect populations. Females can lay multiple clutches per year, which contributes to their successful colonization. Their tolerance for mild cold temperatures also allows them to survive farther north than many other geckos.
Subspecies – Variations of Native Geckos
Within the native Coleonyx variegatus species, several subspecies exist, each with slight variations in appearance and geographic range, further highlighting the localized adaptations of these fascinating reptiles. While taxonomists continue to refine classifications, these commonly recognized subspecies represent distinct populations.
1. San Diego Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus abbotti)
Undoubtedly the most widespread non-native gecko in the United States, the Mediterranean House Gecko has established populations in at least 24 states, predominantly across the South, Southwest, and even into parts of the Midwest. Originally from the Mediterranean region, this nocturnal gecko is easily recognizable by its bumpy, warty skin, often mottled in shades of gray, brown, or pinkish-white, which provides excellent camouflage against human-made structures. It lacks movable eyelids, instead having a clear spectacle that it licks clean. These geckos are masters of urban living, commonly seen clinging to walls near outdoor lights, feasting on the insects attracted there. While generally harmless and even beneficial pest controllers, their aggressive colonization can sometimes displace native insectivorous lizards.
2. Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
The Indo-Pacific Gecko is a fascinating introduced species found in warm coastal regions of Florida, Hawaii, California, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia. What makes this gecko truly remarkable is its parthenogenetic nature: all individuals are female, reproducing clonally without the need for a male. This reproductive strategy has likely contributed to its rapid and successful colonization across new territories. These nocturnal geckos typically have smooth skin, a slender body, and a distinct lack of heavy patterning, often appearing translucent or pale gray-brown, sometimes with a yellowish tail. They thrive in disturbed habitats like buildings, gardens, and greenhouses, where they hunt small insects.
3. Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
Originating from Southeast Asia, the Common House Gecko is another highly adaptable species that has made its way to the United States, primarily establishing populations in Florida, Hawaii, and parts of Texas. This gecko is known for its relatively smooth skin, often adorned with subtle patterns of light and dark spots or blotches, ranging from pale gray to light brown. They are typically slender, with distinct vocalizations—a series of chirps or clicks—that give them their common name. Nocturnal and insectivorous, they are frequently observed on walls and ceilings of homes, particularly near lights where they ambush prey. While generally harmless to humans, they can aggressively compete with and displace other gecko species, including the Mediterranean House Gecko, in areas where their ranges overlap.
4. Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia)
Hailing from Africa, the Tropical House Gecko has successfully colonized the warm, humid environments of Florida and parts of the Gulf Coast. This gecko is characterized by its somewhat warty skin, often pale gray to brown, with subtle dark markings that can intensify or fade depending on its surroundings. It shares many habits with other Hemidactylus species, being nocturnal and highly adapted to living on human structures. They are excellent climbers, thanks to their specialized toe pads, and are frequently observed around outdoor lights where they opportunistically feed on insects. While not as widespread as the Mediterranean House Gecko, its populations are robust in its preferred tropical and subtropical zones, where it is a familiar sight to residents.
5. Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
The Mourning Gecko is another fascinating parthenogenetic species, meaning all individuals are female and reproduce clonally. Originating from Southeast Asia and Oceania, it has established populations in Hawaii and Florida, thriving in humid, tropical environments. These small geckos typically display a mottled pattern of browns and creams, often with a darker V-shaped marking on the head. They are primarily nocturnal but can be active during the day, particularly in shaded areas. Mourning Geckos are highly arboreal, often found on plants, trees, and fences, where they feed on tiny insects and nectar. Their ability to reproduce without a male contributes significantly to their success as an invasive species.
6. Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
Easily one of the most striking and vocally assertive geckos, the Tokay Gecko, native to Southeast Asia, has established breeding populations in central and southern Florida and parts of Hawaii. This large, robust gecko is unmistakable with its vibrant blue-gray body covered in brilliant orange or red spots. Nocturnal and primarily arboreal, they are often found clinging to trees or walls in humid, tropical environments. Their distinctive loud “TO-KAY! TO-KAY!” call is a common sound in areas where they are established. Tokay Geckos are voracious predators, feeding on large insects, small rodents, and even other lizards. Their aggressive nature and size allow them to dominate local ecosystems, sometimes posing a threat to smaller native fauna.
7. Madagascar Giant Day Gecko (Phelsuma grandis)
As its name suggests, the Madagascar Giant Day Gecko is a large and brilliantly colored gecko, originating from Madagascar, with established populations in Florida. Unlike most geckos, Phelsuma grandis is diurnal, meaning it is active during the day, basking in the sun and hunting. Its vibrant emerald green body, often adorned with striking red markings on its back and head, makes it one of the most visually stunning reptiles in its new environment. These geckos are highly arboreal, frequently found on trees, palms, and large-leafed plants in tropical gardens and suburban areas. They feed on insects, fruit, and nectar. While beautiful, their predatory nature and ability to outcompete native species raise ecological concerns in Florida.
8. Gold Dust Day Gecko (Phelsuma laticauda)
The Gold Dust Day Gecko is another beautiful diurnal gecko from Madagascar, widely established in Hawaii and also found in parts of Florida. This smaller, but equally vibrant, day gecko boasts a brilliant green body with characteristic gold-colored flecks or “dust” around its neck and shoulders, often accompanied by red spots on its lower back and three red dashes between its eyes. Like other Phelsuma species, it is arboreal, frequently seen on trees, fences, and the sides of buildings, especially in lush gardens and tropical foliage. They feed on a varied diet of insects, fruit, and nectar, often approaching hummingbird feeders. Their striking appearance makes them a popular sight, but like other introduced species, their impact on local ecosystems is a subject of ongoing study.
9. Yellow-headed Gecko (Gonatodes albogularis)
The Yellow-headed Gecko is a small, diurnal species native to Central and South America that has established a firm foothold in the warmer parts of the United States, particularly in South Florida. Unlike many other geckos, this species displays striking sexual dimorphism. Males are easily identifiable by their bright, sunny-yellow heads and velvety blue-black bodies, while females are more subtly colored in shades of gray and brown with mottled patterns, allowing them to blend perfectly into tree bark.
These geckos are primarily terrestrial but are excellent at scampering up the bases of trees and stone walls. They lack the specialized “sticky” toe pads found in many other gecko families, meaning they rely on small claws for climbing. They are most active during the day, hunting for tiny insects in leaf litter or on the shaded sides of buildings. Because they are shy and retreat quickly into crevices when approached, they are often overlooked despite their vibrant colors.
10. Moorish Wall Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica)
Often called the “Crocodile Gecko” due to its robust build and the prominent, spiny scales (tubercles) covering its back, the Moorish Wall Gecko is a Mediterranean native now established in parts of California (specifically San Diego and Los Angeles) and isolated pockets of Florida.
This gecko is a powerhouse of the urban environment. It is much larger and more aggressive than the common house gecko, often reaching lengths of 6 inches. Its color can shift from light gray to dark brown depending on the temperature and its surroundings. Known for being exceptionally territorial, these geckos are often seen guarding a specific outdoor light fixture, chasing away any smaller geckos that dare to enter their hunting grounds. Their grip is legendary; they can remain motionless on vertical glass or upside down on ceilings for hours while waiting for a moth to pass by.
11. Rough-Tailed Gecko (Cyrtopodion scabrum)
The Rough-Tailed Gecko (also known as the Keeled Gecko) is one of the more unique success stories in the U.S. It arrived from the Middle East via shipping containers and has established a very specific, localized population around the docks and warehouses of Galveston, Texas.
This species is terrestrial and prefers “harsh” urban environments over gardens or trees. It is easily distinguished by its heavily keeled scales on the tail, which give it a jagged, rough appearance. They are typically sandy-colored with dark brown spots, providing perfect camouflage against concrete and brick. Because they are so localized to port areas, they serve as a fascinating example of how global trade can accidentally introduce a species to a very specific micro-habitat where it manages to thrive against the odds.
12. White-Spotted Wall Gecko (Tarentola annularis)
This species is known for the pale spots scattered across its body, giving it a textured appearance that blends well with stone walls and rocky surfaces.
White-spotted wall geckos are nocturnal hunters that rely on stealth rather than speed. They grow to about 5–6 inches and prefer warm climates.
Often introduced through cargo shipments, they adapt well to urban settings. Their insect-heavy diet makes them beneficial neighbors in many communities.
Though not native, they rarely become invasive due to moderate reproductive rates.
🦎 Geckos in the United States by State
Alabama
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
Arizona
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus)
Arkansas
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
California
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
- White-Spotted Wall Gecko (Tarentola annularis)
- Moorish Wall Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica)
- Peninsula Leaf-Toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus nocticolus)
- Barefoot Gecko (Coleonyx switaki)
- Leaf-Toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus xanti)
Florida
- Florida Reef Gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus) – Only native gecko
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
- Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Flat-Tailed House Gecko (Hemidactylus platyurus)
- Ashy Gecko (Sphaerodactylus elegans)
- Ocellated Gecko (Sphaerodactylus argus)
- Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
- Yellow-Headed Gecko (Gonatodes albogularis)
- Madagascar Giant Day Gecko (Phelsuma grandis)
- Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
- White-Spotted Wall Gecko (Tarentola annularis)
- Moorish Wall Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica)
Georgia
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
Illinois
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Indiana
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Kansas
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Kentucky
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Louisiana
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
Maryland
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Mississippi
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
Missouri
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Nevada
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
New Mexico
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
North Carolina
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Oklahoma
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
South Carolina
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Texas
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Indo-Pacific Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
- Texas Banded Gecko (Coleonyx brevis) – Native
- Reticulate Banded Gecko (Coleonyx reticulatus) – Native
- Rough-Tailed Gecko (Cyrtopodion scabrum)
Utah
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
- Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus)
Virginia
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus)
Hawaii
- Mourning Gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus)
- Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko)
- Stump-Toed Gecko (Gehyra mutilata)
- Fox Gecko (Hemidactylus garnotii)
- Orange-Spotted Day Gecko (Phelsuma guimbeaui)
Summary: The Future of U.S. Geckos
The landscape of American herpetology is changing. While our native Banded Geckos continue to hold their own in the protected canyons of the Southwest, the urban sprawl of the South and West is increasingly belonging to the “global travelers.”
Whether it’s the parthenogenetic Indo-Pacific Gecko cloning itself to victory or the vibrant Day Geckos turning Hawaiian gardens into tropical wonderlands, geckos have become a permanent and colorful part of the American experience.
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