Coleonyx brevis

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Scientific name. Coleonyx brevis

Common Name. Texas Banded Gecko

General information. Nocturnal, This nocturnal gecko remains under cover during daylight hours and exits at dusk. Texas banded geckos can commonly be seen on roadways at night as it forages for insects and spiders. This species of gecko emits squeaks when handled.

Protected status. The Texas Banded Gecko is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Slender body with large head and large eyes with vertical pupils and movable eyelids Small granular scales. Slender toes without pads. Thick tail equal in length to the head and body. Females grow larger than males

Coloration. Pinkish brown ground color with alternating cross bands of brown and pale yellow. Dark and light colored blotches and spots on body create mottled look, especially with age.

General distribution. In North America, Coleonyx brevis is found across much of west Texas, as well as parts of south Texas, New Mexico, and northeastern Mexico.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Coleonyx brevis is found in the Trans-Pecos and the western portions of south Texas.

Habitat. The Texas Banded Gecko is a terrestrial species lives in dry, rocky areas, where it can be found in canyons and crevices, as well as under rocks and fallen yuccas.

Reproduction. Breeding is not well described, but probably occurs for a few months in late spring with one or two eggs being laid. Juveniles have a distinctive chocolate brown bands that develop light areas as they become adults.

Size. Adult Coleonyx brevis may reach lengths of 10-12 cm (4-4.75 in), including tail.

Map. Orange counties indicate new county records since previous Herps of Texas update in 1998; all other colored counties reflect known distribution prior to 1998 for species and/or subspecies. Map is based on museum voucher specimens.

Coleonyx reticulatus

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Scientific name. Coleonyx reticulatus

Common Name. Reticulate Banded Gecko

General information. This is a nocturnal gecko species, remaining under cover during daylight hours. This gecko is infrequently seen on roadways at night and after rains. Individuals may emit a “squeek” when handled.

Protected status. The Reticulate Banded Gecko is considered an threatened species by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is fully protected by the state.

Diagnostic features. Dorsal rows of large tubercles on body with otherwise small scales. Large eyes with vertical pupils and movable eyelids. Slender toes without pads. Prehensile tail

Coloration. Pinkish brown ground color with brown spots Faint cross bars may be present, suggesting netlike pattern.

General distribution. In North America, Coleonyx reticulatus is found only in the Texas countes of Brewster and Presidio and two isolated colonies in adjacent Mexico.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Coleonyx reticulatus is found in Big Bend, in Brewster and Presidio Counties.

Habitat. This terrestrial lizard is found in dry areas of west Texas, where it inhabits rocky canyons and crevices.

Reproduction. Reproduction and breeding behavior is not well known in this species. Reports on those kept in captivity indicate two eggs are laid in July.

Size. Coleonyx reticulatus can grow to adult lengths (including tail) of 14-16.5 cm (5.5-6.5 in).

Banded Geckos | Herps of Texas

Coleonyx brevis

Coleonyx reticulatus