| MADAGASCAR GRANDIS DAY GECKO (Phelsuma madagascariensis) |
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| Range: | Islands in the Indian Ocean, including Madagascar |
| Habitat: | Rainforests |
| Diet: | Insects, nectar and pollen of plants. The geckos on display are fed crickets, fruit-flies, and fruit- flavored baby food. |
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The body is a bright green with red spots and markings along the back and head. They will grow to a length of 10 inches. The underside of the feet have rows of fine ridges that grasp onto microscopic imperfections of walls, ceilings, and even panes of glass that allow the geckos to climb such surfaces. When startled these lizards will fall from their spot in the tree to escape the intruder. They always land on their feet, using their tails to orient themselves during the fall. These geckos are active during the day, as their name implies, and therefore must have the appropriate UV light in captivity to produce vitamin D3. This species is endangered due to habitat loss and the pet trade. |
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