ANIMAL: Henkel’s Leaf-Tailed Gecko Uroplatus henkeli Type of Animal: Gecko Habitat: Forests Location(s): Madagascar: NW Sambirano region & island of Nosy Be, Tsingy de Bemaraha & Ankarafantsika in W Madagascar Appearance: Grey or brown w/ noticeable short flat leafy tail, some charcoal w/ light grey, large triangular head, bulging eyes, usually light pink-brown, orangish, or beige w/ red spots, large adhesive toe pads Food/Diet: Insects, snails, worms, spiders, young rats, smaller lizards (including younger members of own species) Status in Wild: Threatened Conservation: Breeding from zoos, wildlife parks, & breeders Lifestyle: Solitary or small groups of a male w/ 2-3 females Additional Info: Called: Male Female Young-Hatchling Group-Leap Weight: 1 oz Gestation: 2-3 months Life Span: 5 years Body Length: 10 in Tail Length: 1 in Main predators are rats, snakes, owls, & eagles They’re nocturnal (active at night). Threatened due to pet trade, habitat loss, deforestation, & agriculture. Captive breeders are breeding them to be pets to reduce collection from wild. Only leaves trees to lay eggs in leaf litter on forest floor. Females lay 2 eggs per clutch & can lay up to 6 clutches a year. They’re very sensitive & don’t like being handled often. Due to elusive nature, there is more to be learned about this species. Named after German herpetologist Friedrich-Wilhelm Henkel. Fun Fact(s): Since it doesn’t have eyelids, it has to lick its own eyes. They’re masters at camouflage, perfect for catching unsuspecting prey & great at evading predators. Adhesive toe pads great for climbing & clinging to variety of surfaces. Can shed tail to escape/confuse predators. Can frighten predators by opening mouth wide & revealing bright red cavity inside. Can make loud distress calls.
