African Fat Tail Gecko

鶐 General Overview

• Common Name: African Fat-Tailed Gecko

• Scientific Name: Hemitheconyx caudicinctus

• Family: Eublepharidae (same family as leopard geckos)

• Native Range: West Africa — from Senegal and Guinea eastward to Cameroon and Nigeria

• Habitat: Dry savannas, scrublands, and rocky semi-arid regions

• Lifespan: 10–15 years (up to 20 years in captivity with good care)

• Size: 7–9 inches (18–23 cm)

• Weight: 45–75 grams (adults)

Identification

• Appearance:

  • Plump body with smooth, soft skin

  • Broad head and short limbs

  • Fat, rounded tail (used for fat storage)

• Coloration:

  • Typically light to dark brown with cream or tan bands

  • A white or cream dorsal stripe is common in many individuals

• Eyes:

  • Vertical pupils

  • Eyelids present (unlike many geckos), allowing them to blink

• Morphs (Captive Breeding):

  • Normal, Albino, Patternless, Stripe, Oreo, Zululand, and Ghost morphs