Geckos and lizards
Also known as Common house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus), Cicak, Chichak
In short
Geckos and other small lizards eat large numbers of insects and spiders around homes, balconies and gardens. The common house gecko, native to South and Southeast Asia, hunts moths, flies, cockroaches and termites near lights at night and is not harmful to people.
How it looks
The common house gecko is 7.5–15 cm long including the tail, pale greyish to brownish, with a dark streak between eye and nostril and wide adhesive toe pads that let it run up walls and glass. It hides by day and is active from dusk, often near lights, and makes a loud chirping call.
Signs
No plant damage. Droppings on walls and sills; geckos resting on walls, often near lights, at night.
What favours it
Warm climates, buildings with outdoor lights that attract insects, and shelter among plants and walls.
Prevention
- Nothing to prevent outdoors.
- If unwanted indoors, seal gaps and reduce night lighting that draws insects to windows.
Treatment
Start with the first step and move down only if the problem persists.
- Leave them alone: they are harmless and eat household insects.
- If one is unwanted indoors, gently guide it outdoors.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Eat moths, flies, cockroaches, termites, beetles and spiders around homes and plants.
- Non-venomous and not harmful to people.
Cons
- Droppings on walls and windowsills.
- Outside its native range the house gecko is invasive and displaces native geckos.
- May bite if grabbed.
- Also eat beneficial insects and spiders.
Related
Sources
Written in our own words from these sources. Check a product label before using any treatment.