Scientific Name: Cyrtodactylus pulchellus
Family: Gekkonidae
Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)
Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic
Origin: Peninsular Malaysia (Highland and Lowland forests)
Adult Size: 20 – 25 cm (8 – 10 inches)
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Diet: Insectivore (Crickets, roaches, mealworms)
The Malayan Banded Gecko is widely considered the most attractive member of the Bent-Toed Gecko family. It features a cream or light yellow body marked with broad, bold chocolate-brown bands. They have large, golden-brown eyes ("cat eyes") and long, slender limbs. Unlike house geckos, they have clawed toes without sticky pads, giving them a distinct, bird-like grip.
Notes Husbandry: These are forest floor and rock-dwelling geckos. They require a textured environment (cork bark backgrounds, rocks, driftwood) to climb, as they cannot climb smooth glass. They prefer cooler, humid environments typical of Malaysian forests.
Behavior: Nocturnal and moderately active. They can be fast when startled but generally tolerate gentle handling better than smaller species.
Why Source This Species:
Striking Pattern: The clean, high-contrast banding makes them a visual standout compared to the dull brown of most forest geckos.
Hardy Captive: They are robust eaters and adapt well to naturalistic vivariums, making them excellent for intermediate keepers.
Active Hunter: Watching them stalk insects with their raised bodies and twitching tails is very entertaining.
