Seipp's day gecko (Phelsuma seippi MEIER 1987) is a diurnal species of geckos. It lives in north Madagascar and typically inhabits rainforests and dwells on trees. Seipp's day gecko feeds on insects and nectar.

Description

This lizard belongs to the medium-sized day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 14 cm. The body colour of this slender and long-snoutet gecko is green or yellowish green. There are several small red or rust-coloured spots on the back which may form dorsal striping. A rust coloured eye stripe extends from the nostril to above the ear opening. A red v-shaped marking may be present on the head. Typical for this species are several v-shaped stripes on the throat. The ventral side is light pink.

Distribution

This species inhabits northwest Madagascar. It can also be found on the island Nosy Bé.

Habitat

Phelsuma seippi is restricted to the native rainforests and avoids bright sun light. It live on trees both in the forest and along its edges.

Diet

These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.

Behaviour

This Phelsuma species is often found in pairs on a tree. Juveniles mainly inhabit surrounding low shrubs.

Reproduction

The females lay a pair of eggs and hide them on the ground under foliage or wood or they may lay their eggs on trees under loose bark. At a temperature of 28°C, the young will hatch after approximately 45–50 days. The juveniles measure 40 mm.

Care and maintenance in captivity

These animals should be housed in pairs in a well planted terrarium. The temperature should be between 25 and 28°C. The humidity should be maintained between 75 and 100%. In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth larvae, fruit flies, mealworms and houseflies.

References

• Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3800173239
• McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.