Haaches thicktoed gecko

Introduction: Haache's thick-toed gecko (Pachydactylus haackei) is a large, sturdy gecko with sensitive skin, which is easily torn or ripped. Their preferred habitat is large rock outcrops on both upper and lower slopes of mountains in deserts and succulent veld. They enjoy basking during the day time at the crack entrance to large rock crevices and are also active during the evening.

Distribution: From the Orange River to the Fish River Canyon and north as far as Mariental.

Diet: Large insects such as beetles.

Colouring: The back is pink-grey with a series of indistinct blotches that from 7 irregular bands. The belly is a cream colour. The tail has a fat base and is about the same size as the head and the body.

Breeding: Females lay 2 large, round hard-shelled eggs in a rock crack.

Size: SVL 70 to 80mm. Max SVL 85mm.