Asian House Gecko

The Asian house gecko, also called the common house gecko, wall gecko or moon lizard, is native to South and Southeast Asia and Near Oceania. It is nocturnal, hiding by day and foraging for insects at night, and is often seen on walls of houses and other buildings hunting insects around lights. It grows to 7.5 to 15 cm and lives about 7 years. It is recognisable by its chirping call. The name frenatus, meaning harnessed or bridled, refers to the dark streaks on the sides of the head (Wikipedia, general species account).

It is harmless to people, though it may bite if distressed. It is a tropical species that thrives in warm, humid areas and strongly prefers urban environments, where it can displace less robust gecko species. Nationally Least Concern (Sri Lanka National Red List 2012).