All Animals

Green Gecko

Naultinus elegans
Reptile

Step into the world of our green geckos and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures

A green gecko perched on a leaf

Usually a bright apple-green, this gecko may also be a bright yellow. It may be unmarked or have stripes, blotches or spots of yellow, pink or white. Inside the mouth is bright blue. It has excellent camouflage. This lizard is diurnal and arboreal, hunting and foraging mainly in trees and shrubs.

Most geckos will lose their tails if threatened. The tail is important for balance, grip and fat storage, so always take care not to hold any lizard by the tail. Once lost, although the lizard will recover and regrow its tail, it is a serious loss of resource.

A pregnant lizard is referred to as 'gravid', whether carrying eggs or live young.

Quick facts

Distribution:

Upper North Island of New Zealand, some Hauraki Gulf islands

Habitat:

Forest or scrub

Conservation Status:

Gradual Decline

Fun fact

The inside of this gecko's mouth is bright blue! It's tongue is either red or blue, depending on which subspecies it is!