Chondrodactylus turneri

Also known as Turner’s Giant Gecko for its impressive size (adults measure up to 10cm in length excluding their tail), Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko is a solitary, nocturnal species occurring in semi-desert and arid savannas, usually in rocky outcrops but also occasionally in or around houses. In the spring season females lay 2 or 3 clutches of 2 eggs each in holes dug in the sand. The eggs take 2 to 3 months to hatch. Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko is a carnivore, feeding primarily on insects and other invertebrates. In South Africa, this species is found in parts of Mpumalanga, Limpopo, the North West and Northern Cape provinces.

Turner’s Giant Gecko

Turner’s Giant Gecko

Turner’s Giant Gecko

Baby Turner’s Giant Gecko

Turner’s Giant Gecko

Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko

Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko in Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp

Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko

We think this might be a baby Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko (photo by Joubert)

Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko

Turner’s Thick-toed Gecko