African Fat-Tailed Gecko
Hemitheconyx caudicinctus
🌍 Overview
The African fat-tailed gecko hails from the arid savanna and scrubland of West Africa, where it shelters in rock crevices and termite mounds by day. Like the leopard gecko, it is a terrestrial species with true eyelids. Its thick tail stores fat reserves for use during food scarcity — a trait reflected in its name. They are generally calmer and more tolerant of handling than many other gecko species.
📋 Quick Facts
Native Range
West Africa (Senegal to Cameroon)
Natural Habitat
Arid savanna, dry forest, and rocky scrubland
Adult Size
7–9 inches (18–23 cm)
Wild Diet
Insects, worms, and small invertebrates
Wild Lifespan
10–20 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN)
🤩 Fun Facts
🦎 Gecko Toe Magic
Geckos can walk on walls and ceilings thanks to millions of tiny hair-like structures on their toes called setae. Each toe has about 500,000 of them, using molecular forces to stick to surfaces!
🦎 Tail Fat Reserves
Leopard geckos store fat reserves in their thick tails. A skinny tail can signal poor health or stress. A healthy gecko should have a plump, rounded tail.
🦎 Rediscovered in 1994
Crested geckos were thought to be extinct until they were rediscovered in 1994 in New Caledonia! They're now one of the most popular gecko species in the hobby.
🤓 Did You Know?
African fat-tailed geckos store fat in their wide, sausage-shaped tails as an energy reserve, just like leopard geckos. A plump tail is a sign of a healthy, well-fed gecko!
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