Barefoot Banded Gecko

Range

The barefoot banded gecko is native to Baja California Sur, Southern California in the United States and Isla San Marcos in Mexico.

Habitats

This species is usually found in rocky, dry habitats, rocky hillsides and dessert foothill. The barefoot banded gecko or Coleonyx switaki is nocturnal in nature, creeping under rocks or crevices during the day. It feeds on insects, spiders and arthropods. The females lay several clutches of eggs in twos under surface objects like rocks. It takes about two months for eggs to hatch. The hatchlings are bright yellow or orange in color with a distinctly white and black banded tail.

Identification

The Coleonyx Switaki has a length of 2.0-3.4 inches from its snout to vent. Barefoot banded gecko has a moderate head that is wider than the necks in adult. Granular scales cover the head and snout uniformly. The body of this species has a variable color pattern with round brown spots all over. It possesses a short, fleshy tail, movable eyelids and it lacks toepads.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians