Pictus Gecko | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Reptilia |
Order: | Squamata |
Family: | Gekkonidae |
Genus: | Paroedura |
Species: | P. pictus |
Binomial name | |
Paroedura pictus Peters, 1854 |
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The ocelot gecko (Paroedura pictus) is a nocturnal ground-dwelling gecko found in leaf litter in Madagascar forests, and is also a popular pet. It is sometimes known as the Madagascar ground gecko, pictus gecko, Malagasy fat-tailed gecko, or panther gecko.
P. pictus naturally occurs as a brown lizard with black markings. Some individuals may also have a white dorsal stripe. In captivity, there are several color phases available including hypo, orange, anerythristic, and amelanistic (yellow).
They usually reach a size of 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), with some well-cared-for males reaching 8 inches (20 cm). Overall, they are smaller than the average gecko.
The ocelot gecko is not a true climbing gecko, but does have the capability to climb a few surfaces. In captivity, it has been known to scale the sides of glass terrariums if startled.
These geckos do well in captivity but are fairly shy. They do have a tendency to be very skittish, but they aren't aggressive.