The house gecko is native to Africa, but is now found in almost all the warm parts of the Americas, including the Caribbean. It is generally assumed that they were inadvertently introduced to the Americas by people, but it is also possible that came by natural means. They definitely seem to benefit from the presence of humans, in particular artificial lights that attract insects for them to eat. They can be quite pale, particularly when on a light-colored surface like a painted wall. In the wild, they are usually a mix of tan and gray like in this photo.
Apparently having one in your house is considered good luck in some parts of the Caribbean. If anyone knows what it means here, please share! Locally they may be called a Woodslave, and on some islands they are called Common Woodslave to distinguish them from the larger, native gecko that is also known as a Woodslave or Giant Woodslave.
A big thank you to our recent backers: Mathieu Corbou and Sherene Peart Corbou, Rogier Brans, and Pauline Malterre!
If you work for a company that would be interested in promoting science and education on the island, let me know. I am looking for sponsors for a program to get copies of my wildlife guide into schools, libraries and other publications, and also to do a series of presentations and other events for students and the general public. It is a great opportunity to do something positive for the island, and to get recognized for participating.
