Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Four-spotted Day Gecko

Scientific name: Phelsuma quadriocellata


Four-spotted Day Gecko

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: GEKKONIDAE

Group: Reptiles

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 2 m

Breeding season / Courtship: N/A

Gestation: 40–45 jours

Births: N/A


Habitat:
Humid tropical forests, gardens, human dwellings

Description:
The Phelsuma quadriocellata, or four-spotted day gecko, is a small, colorful lizard native to Madagascar. It is known for its bright green skin adorned with blue and red spots, and its distinctive four black spots on the back. This diurnal gecko is often found in humid tropical forests, feeding mainly on insects and nectar. It is appreciated for its adaptability to various environments, including gardens and human dwellings. Although generally suspicious, it can become tolerant of humans over time. Its reproduction is oviparous, with a gestation period of about 40 to 45 days.

Recommended lens:
>=Macro

Photography tips:
To photograph the four-spotted day gecko, choose early morning or late afternoon hours when the light is soft and enhances its vibrant colors. Use a macro lens to capture the details of its skin and distinctive spots. Approach slowly to avoid startling it, and maintain a distance of about 2 meters to prevent disturbance. If possible, use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images. Be patient and wait for it to perch on a leaf or branch for a natural background.

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