A lifeline for the Manapany day Gecko
Emmanuel Van Heygen
Amidst the lush landscapes and dramatic coastal cliffs of Réunion Island, a small, vibrant gecko clings to survival in a world reshaped by human influence. The Manapany Day Gecko or Phelsuma inexpectata is endemic to Réunion and cloaked in mystery, its original natural distribution obscured by centuries of human activity and a presumed shrinkage from much of its original territory. Today, this elusive creature’s presence remains a patchwork of fragmented habitats, primarily clinging to the southern coastline within a mere 100 meters of the sea.
Measuring the reared Manapany Day Gecko ©NOI
Current scientific monitoring reveals that only a few dozen Manapany Day Geckos remain on these cliffs, primarily hindered by high mortality rates among the young. Although new geckos are born, very few survive to adulthood. As a result, the aging adult population is not being replenished, signaling a distressing forecast for these geckos: without intervention, they could be extinct within three to four years.
Phelsuma inexpectata Petite-Île
Emmanuel Van Heygen
The Exo Terra Screen Terrariums rearing Phelsuma inexpectata
A reared Phelsuma inexpectata in a Screen Terrarium
Réunion Island Journals
Protecting the Legacy of Réunion Island’s Day Geckos
Both species highlight the ongoing conservation challenges in preserving the unique habitats of Réunion Island. Protecting these geckos involves a comprehensive approach that includes habitat conservation, public awareness, and scientific research to understand better the ecological needs and behaviors of these vibrant reptiles.
Rediscovering the Réunion Island Day Gecko
The Reunion Day Gecko, scientifically named Phelsuma borbonica, is a medium-sized, vibrantly colored lizard that thrives in the lu h landscapes of Réunion. This gecko demonstrates remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental changes and symbolizes the island’s rich yet fragile natural heritage.
The Unique world of the Manapany Day Gecko
Amidst the lush landscapes and dramatic coastal cliffs of Réunion Island, a small, vibrant gecko clings to survival in a world reshaped by human influence. The Manapany Day Gecko or Phelsuma inexpectata is endemic to Réunion and cloaked in mystery, its original natural distribution obscured by centuries of human activity and a presumed shrinkage from much of its original territory. Today, this elusive creature's presence remains a patchwork of fragmented habitats, primarily clinging to the southern coastline within a mere 100 meters of the sea.
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