Thecadactylus

Thecadactylus is a genus of geckos, commonly known as palm geckos or house geckos, found in the Americas. These geckos are characterized by their robust bodies, large heads, and distinctive large, unblinking eyes. They are nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of their lives in trees and on the sides of buildings, where they are adept at climbing using their specialized toe pads.

There are currently two recognized species within the genus Thecadactylus. Thecadactylus rapicauda, the common palm gecko, is widespread throughout Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. Thecadactylus solimoensis is found in the Amazon basin. These geckos are insectivores, feeding on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates.

Thecadactylus geckos are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Females typically deposit one or two leathery eggs in concealed locations such as tree hollows or under loose bark. Their coloration varies, often providing camouflage within their arboreal habitats. While generally docile, they can deliver a painful bite if threatened, and some species are known to shed their tails (autotomy) as a defense mechanism. Their ability to thrive in human-modified environments has contributed to their widespread distribution in some areas.