Species Detail
Common House Gecko
Geckos

Common House Gecko

Hemidactylus frenatus

Habitat

Human dwellings, walls, and light fixtures in warm regions worldwide.

Range

Southeast Asia native; widely introduced globally

Adult Size

3-6 in (7-15 cm)

Diet

Insects, moths, spiders

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Conservation status:Least Concern

About this species

A nocturnal gecko that thrives around human habitation, hunting insects attracted to lights. Its specialized toe pads let it climb vertical glass effortlessly.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Common House Gecko is arboreal — enrichment focuses on vertical climbing, elevated feeding, and humidity-driven activity.

  • Provide tall vertical cork bark, bamboo, and diagonals to encourage climbing, clinging, and patrolling.
  • Add broad-leafed live or silk foliage and vines for resting, camouflage, and jumping routes.
  • Offer food on elevated feeding ledges at different heights to spread foraging across the enclosure.
  • Mist in the evening to prompt drinking, raise humidity, and trigger natural hunting activity.
  • Tuck small insects among foliage so the gecko stalks through the canopy.
  • Periodically reposition branches and foliage to create novel climbing paths.

Housing & Social Behavior

Groups

Often congregate in nature and can thrive in small groups in captivity.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.