Nature Field Guide
Yellow-marked Dwarf Gecko
- Spanish name
- Gequito de marca amarilla
- Scientific name
- Lepidoblepharis xanthostigma
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What can we learn from this reptile’s shape?”
Tati: “Let’s notice its markings and habitat while leaving it plenty of space.”
Species overview
About the Yellow-marked Dwarf Gecko
This dwarf gecko has a small body, granular-looking scales and delicate toes. Brown camouflage and small pale or yellowish markings can disappear against leaf litter. It is easy to overlook beside larger lizards.
The species is recorded in Costa Rican humid forest, including Caribbean lowlands. Tiny animals depend on the same intact habitat as more noticeable wildlife. Leave the forest floor layered with natural leaves, twigs and bark. A good explorer can appreciate a hiding place without opening it.
Identification
Key Features of the Yellow-marked Dwarf Gecko
Very small forest gecko
Granular-looking scales
Brown camouflage with small lighter markings
Habitat & range
Humid Caribbean-slope and southwestern Pacific forest, including the Limón and Sarapiquí areas.
Local observations
Native reptile recorded in Costa Rica. Presence depends on suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Observe on permitted paths with an adult or qualified guide. Activity varies by species, place and weather; never disturb a hiding or resting animal.
Conservation & care
Observe from permitted paths with an adult. Do not touch, chase, catch or feed reptiles. Leave bark, stones, logs and leaf litter in place. Keep pets away and give animals an open escape route.
Threats & pressures
Protect natural shelters and connected habitat. Avoid collection, unnecessary clearing and deliberate killing. Leave wildlife in its habitat and support responsible observation.
Observation activity
Draw a leaf as a roof over a tiny habitat. Show how shade and shelter help small animals.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Pacific · Northern Plains · South Pacific · Alajuela · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas · San José