Yellow-headed day gecko (Phelsuma klemmeri)

The Yellow-headed Day Gecko (Phelsuma klemmeri) is a species of lizard found in Madagascar. They are known for their distinctive bright yellow heads and bright green bodies. The yellow-headed day gecko, also known as Klemmer’s day gecko, neon day gecko, or cheerful day gecko, is a small, endangered species of lizard that belongs to the Gekkonidae family.

They are arboreal, meaning they live in trees, and are active during the day. It is found in coastal forests, both dry and humid, and is known to live on bamboo. The species was named after German herpetologist Konrad Klemmer and have a turquoise blue back, light brown lower back, and a yellow head, with a black spot behind the eye and a black stripe extending to the rear. Males have an orange color around their femoral pores, while females do not.

The gecko is diurnal and likes to bask, often living in small groups. They lay eggs in bamboo canes, which hatch after about 39 to 52 days and can live for up to 15 years when well cared for. The species is commonly bred in captivity, and it is unlikely that it is still wild-caught.

They feed on insects and nectar and have sticky pads on their feet that allow them to climb and cling to vertical surfaces. They are a popular pet species due to their vibrant colors and relatively easy care requirements. However, they are also listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.

They are popular pets due to their bright colors and active behavior. If you’re interested in keeping one as a pet, here’s what you need to know about their care:

Housing: A 20-gallon terrarium is appropriate for a pair of Yellow-Headed Day Geckos. The terrarium should be furnished with live plants, branches for climbing, and a hiding place. The temperature in the terrarium should be kept between 75-82°F during the day, with a basking spot that reaches 90°F. At night, the temperature can drop to 70°F.

Lighting: Yellow-Headed Day Geckos require UVB lighting to help them process calcium and produce Vitamin D3. A fluorescent bulb or a mercury vapor bulb can provide the necessary UVB lighting.

Diet: Yellow-Headed Day Geckos are omnivores and eat both insects and fruit. Offer a varied diet of small insects such as crickets, mealworms, or fruit flies, as well as slices of fruit. Dust the insects with a calcium supplement once a week to ensure your gecko is getting all the nutrients it needs.

Water: Provide a shallow dish of fresh water for drinking and soaking. Mist the terrarium daily to provide humidity.

If you’re looking to purchase a Yellow-Headed Day Gecko, you may be able to find them at a local pet store or from a breeder. Make sure to buy from a reputable source and ensure that the gecko is healthy and active before making a purchase.

Keep in mind that Yellow-Headed Day Geckos are protected under CITES, which means that it is illegal to import or export them without proper documentation. Make sure to check your local regulations before making a purchase.