African Fat Tail Gecko

Colors vary from pictured.

The African Fat Tail Gecko, scientific name Hemitheconyx caudicinctus, is a species of gecko native to West Africa, specifically the savannah regions of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. It is a medium-sized gecko, growing up to 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in length, including its tail.

The African Fat Tail Gecko is named for its thick, fleshy tail, which is used to store fat reserves for times when food is scarce. They have a chunky, robust body with a flattened head, and their coloration varies from pale gray to brown, with dark brown or black bands and stripes.

As a nocturnal species, the African Fat Tail Gecko is active at night, spending the day hiding in rock crevices or other sheltered areas. They are ground-dwelling geckos that prefer to stay close to the ground, although they can climb as well. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches.

African Fat Tail Geckos are popular pets due to their calm nature and ease of care. They are relatively low-maintenance and do not require as much space or specialized care as some other reptiles. However, they still require a proper diet, lighting, and temperature conditions to thrive in captivity.