About Mediodactylus kotschyi (Steindachner, 1870)
Scientific Name and Size
Kotschy's gecko, scientifically named Mediodactylus kotschyi (Steindachner, 1870), is a slender lizard that reaches a total length of around 10 centimeters (4 inches) including its tail. Females grow slightly larger than males.
Body and Limb Structure
Both the limbs and tail are slim, and small tubercles are present on the back and tail. Its digits lack adhesive pads, but the toes are relatively long and have a kink at their midpoint.
Background Coloration
The species' overall coloration is quite variable; its background color can be yellowish-grey, greyish-brown, dark brown, or reddish-black. The dorsal surface is patterned with W-shaped darker transverse bands.
Color Change Ability
Like other geckos, the pattern of markings stays consistent, but the overall shade of the gecko can darken in cool conditions and lighten during hot daytime temperatures. The underparts may be yellowish or orange in color.
Distribution Range
Kotschy's gecko is primarily distributed along the coastal areas of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. It is native to Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula, Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, and Apulia in Southern Italy.
Habitat
Its typical habitat includes cliffs, dry stony areas, scrub, tree trunks, stone walls, and both the external and internal walls of buildings.
Elevation Range
It can be found at elevations up to 1,700 meters (5,577 feet), though it is mostly a lowland species.
Reproduction
Female Kotschy's gecko lays two eggs (occasionally just one) under stones or inside crevices. The eggs take between eleven and eighteen weeks to hatch, producing juveniles around 2 centimeters (0.8 inches) long.
Life Cycle
Offspring reach sexual maturity in approximately two years, and the species has been recorded to live for nine years in captivity.
