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Explore the tokay gecko in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the tokay gecko in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the tokay gecko in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the tokay gecko’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Tokay gecko
Scientific name: Gekko gecko

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: GEKKONIDAE
Group: Reptiles
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 3 m
Reproduction period: January to December
Incubation: 30 à 35 jours
Births: January to December
Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded areas, human dwellings
Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.
Identification and description:
The Tokay gecko is a large lizard native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. This gecko is particularly known for its vibrant colors, with a gray or bluish body speckled with orange or red spots, making it easily recognizable. The Tokay gecko is nocturnal and arboreal, living in forested habitats, often near human dwellings. It is also famous for its distinctive call, resembling its name, tokay," which it uses to defend its territory or attract a mate. This gecko is a carnivorous predator, feeding mainly on insects and small vertebrates."
Recommended lens:
100 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Photograph the Tokay gecko from a distance using a telephoto lens, especially when it is perched on a branch or wall. Use soft lighting to avoid harsh shadows on its colorful spots. Be discreet, as this gecko can be territorial and noisy, especially at night. Try to capture its distinctive call or interactions in its natural environment, while avoiding disturbing its nocturnal behavior.
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