Goniurosaurus bawanglingensis

(Grismer et al., 2002)

Distribution:

Common name- Bawang cave gecko

Found in the Hainan Bawangling National Nature Reserve in the southwest part of Hainan Island, China.  

Currently Goniurosaurus bawanglingensis is listed as endangered.

Goniurosaurus bawanglingensis is in the G. luii group of cave geckos.

Description:

G. bawanglingensis have a more compact or robust body shape. They have an overall length of about 22.5 centimeters (9 inches).  They have a light yellow body color with broad 4 broad bands on their bodies, displaying many black spots on their back.   A feature of G. bawanglingensis that stands out is the bright orange eyes.  The coloration of the juveniles differs from their parents as they display a a beautiful orange/yellow body coloration with bright yellow bands across their body.   The outstanding feature however is their bright orange colored heads.  They typically live to around 10 years but may live as long as 15.  This is a very shy gecko and special setup considerations should be followed.  G. bawanglingensis are crepuscular (active at dawn and dust) and nocturnal.

Habitat:

The G. bawanglingensis geckos can be found in forest areas featuring rocky areas of limestone and granite.  It is found along streams with thick forest vegetation nearby.  Occasionally they can be found in caves as well.  These areas offer consistent high humidity and a cooler environment.   They will be found occasionally in cave areas but mostly feel more comfortable hiding beneath rocks, fallen wood, and within the leaf litter of the forest floor.   Note- they are found in a very specific microhabitats and generally in low population densities.

Husbandry and Breeding:

See Cave Gecko General Care.

Text and Photos: Wally Kern, Supreme Gecko