SPECIMEN: HEMIDACTYLUS SPP.

Species Profile

Gecko Control

Hemidactylus spp.

Threat Level: Low (2/5)Eco Impact Rating: 5/5

order

Squamata

family

Gekkonidae

lifespan

5–10 years

colony

Solitary / territorial

House geckos (Hemidactylus species) are common in Western Cape homes, attracted by insects and warm sheltered roosting sites. While geckos are beneficial insect predators, their droppings can create hygiene and staining issues on walls, ceilings and surfaces. They are particularly problematic in food preparation areas, restaurants and commercial kitchens where their presence creates compliance issues.

Biology & Behaviour

Geckos are nocturnal lizards with specialised toe pads that allow them to climb smooth vertical surfaces including glass and ceilings. They feed on moths, mosquitoes, flies and other insects attracted to lights. Each gecko establishes a territory and returns to the same roost nightly. Females lay pairs of eggs in crevices throughout the summer. Their droppings resemble small dark pellets with a white uric acid tip, accumulating below roosting sites.

Signs of Infestation

Infestation Indicators

Geckos seen on walls and ceilings at night, particularly near lights

Dark droppings with white tips accumulating on surfaces below roost sites

Staining on walls, ceilings and light fittings from accumulated droppings

Egg shells found in crevices, behind picture frames or in stored items

Gecko vocalisations (chirping) at night, particularly during mating season

Clinical Organicism Protocol

Remediation Protocol

The Eco Pestelence 4-phase intervention methodology, calibrated specifically for gecko control.

Phase 01

Detection

Night-time survey to identify roosting sites and entry points. Insect population assessment — geckos are attracted by abundant insect prey. Mapping of droppings accumulation zones.

Phase 02

Isolation

Sealing of all entry gaps ≥6mm around windows, doors, vents and roof edges. Insect population reduction — eliminating the food source is the primary deterrent. Exterior lighting modification to reduce insect attraction.

Phase 03

Neutralization

Safe capture and relocation of resident geckos using humane traps — released to suitable outdoor habitat. Droppings removal and surface sanitisation with enzyme-based disinfectant. Stain treatment on walls and ceilings.

10-Day Elimination Programme

The initial treatment eliminates active pests while eggs continue hatching over the following days — newly hatched pests contact the residual treatment, progressively clearing the infestation within ~10 days.

Phase 04

Shielding

Ongoing insect control programme — without prey, geckos will not establish. Exclusion barrier maintenance at all identified entry points. Annual inspection of food preparation and commercial areas for compliance.

Eco Commitment

Geckos are beneficial insect predators and are relocated humanely — never harmed. The most effective long-term control is reducing the insect population that attracts them. We focus on exclusion and habitat modification rather than lethal methods.

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