Forest gecko
A species of New zealand forest geckos, Also known as Granular-scaled forest gecko Scientific name : Mokopirirakau granulatus Genus : New zealand forest geckos
Forest gecko, A species of New zealand forest geckos
Also known as:
Granular-scaled forest gecko
Scientific name: Mokopirirakau granulatus
Genus: New zealand forest geckos
Content
Description General Info
Description
The forest gecko (Mokopirirakau granulatus) is a species of gecko. Granulatus refers to the granular texture of the skin. Its MÄori name is moko pirirÄkau ("lizard that clings to trees"). It is endemic to New Zealand, found in all areas except the Far North, Marlborough, and Canterbury.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Forest gecko primarily feasts on small invertebrates, with a particular fondness for native NZ moth species. It also supplements its diet with various spiders, enhancing its nutritional intake.
Appearance
Forest gecko is a small gecko, typically around 100 mm in length. Its body shape is cylindrical, covered with granular, rough skin. The primary coloration is a stone-grey, often with black and white mottling or blotching. Forest gecko has a prehensile tail that is thin and long. Notable are the very small scales that densely cover its body, giving a granular appearance. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender or subspecies.
Behavior
Forest gecko is a predominantly nocturnal species, emerging at dusk to forage for invertebrate prey. It exhibits a secretive, solitary lifestyle, often nesting in complex burrows or beneath rocks and logs. This species is non-migratory, displaying strong territorial behavior by using scent marks to demarcate and defend its territory.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Australasian geckos Species
Forest gecko 
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