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Humid lowland and mid-altitude rainforest, resting on tree trunks. habitat
Henkel's Leaf-tail Gecko
Reptile Fact Sheet

Henkel's Leaf-tail Gecko

VU

Uroplatus henkeli

Humid lowland and mid-altitude rainforest, resting on tree trunks.

Fact Sheet

About this animal

Key facts about the henkel's leaf-tail gecko.

Common Name
Henkel's Leaf-tail Gecko
Scientific Name
Uroplatus henkeli
Classification
Reptilia • Squamata • Gekkonidae
Distribution
Northern and western rainforests of Madagascar.
Habitat
Humid lowland and mid-altitude rainforest, resting on tree trunks.
Range map · red pin marks a typical locationView larger map
Diet
Insects and other small invertebrates, hunted at night.
Size
Around 25–28 cm (10–11 in) including the flat, leaf-shaped tail.
Lifespan
About 6–10 years.
Conservation Status
VU
Vulnerable — threatened by deforestation and the pet trade.
Behaviour
Nocturnal ambush hunter; sleeps flattened against bark by day.
Adaptations
Camouflage master: fringed skin and a leaf-like tail break up its outline. Huge eyes for night vision.
Predators
Snakes, birds of prey and small carnivorous mammals.
Interesting Facts
  • Its Latin name 'Uroplatus' means 'flat tail'.
  • Can open its mouth to reveal a bright red lining as a warning display.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) · Habitat: Masoala rainforest, Madagascar — Wikimedia Commons