INDIANA— The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking residents to report sightings of the Mediterranean gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus). This exotic, harmless lizard has been spotted in various locations across the state.
DNR biologists are seeking public input to track better and understand the presence of this non-native species in Indiana. Observations, especially those accompanied by photographs, should be emailed to HerpSurveys@dnr.IN.gov.
The Mediterranean gecko is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and northern Africa. It is a small lizard, typically measuring four to five inches long. Key identifying features include:
- Coloring: Tan or pink with brown blotches on the body.
- Skin: “Warty” texture.
- Eyes: Large, bulging eyes with vertical pupils.
- Behavior: They are primarily active at night and often gather near outdoor lights or inside buildings, feeding on insects and spiders during the warmer months.
The DNR notes that the geckos are harmless and pose no threat to Indiana’s natural resources. They often arrive as “hitchhikers” on shipments and favor man-made structures.
Due to Indiana’s climate, the geckos cannot easily spread across the state as they require heated buildings to survive the winter. Reports of the species have come from both northern and southern Indiana cities, with at least two locations having continuous sightings over multiple years.
“Further monitoring is needed to better understand the nature of Mediterranean geckos at these and other Indiana locations,” the agency said, stressing that public reports will enable them to track the locations of the gecko more.
