Ocelot gecko
| Pictus Gecko | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Family: | Gekkonidae |
| Genus: | Paroedura |
| Species: | P. pictus |
| Binomial name | |
| Paroedura pictus Peters, 1854 | |
 | |
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.
Characteristics
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.
They are exclusively insectivorous.
They are best observed during their preferred hunting time, between dusk and dawn.[1]
In captivity
These geckos do well in captivity but do not like being handled and may bite if scared. They can live in captivity for between six and ten years.[2]