The term “house lizard” is a broad, colloquial phrase referring to a group of small, highly adaptable geckos found in human dwellings across the globe. These nocturnal reptiles have established a widespread commensal relationship with people, meaning they benefit from living near us. They are a fixture in warm climates, often seen clinging to walls and ceilings in search of insect prey. Their presence in homes is a testament to their remarkable ability to thrive in urbanized environments far beyond their native ranges.
Identifying the Common House Lizard
The species most frequently identified as the “house lizard” is the Common House Gecko, scientifically known as Hemidactylus frenatus. This small lizard generally measures between 3 and 6 inches in total length, including the tail. Their coloration is typically grayish, pale brown, or beige, often appearing somewhat translucent, which helps them camouflage against various surfaces. They can climb almost any surface using specialized, sticky toe pads called lamellae. They are also known for their characteristic vocalizations, often described as a soft chirping or clicking sound, which is used for communication and territorial defense.
Typical Lifespan Expectations
The longevity of the Common House Gecko is subject to significant variation depending on its environment, making a single lifespan number difficult to pinpoint. In the wild, or in their natural urbanized habitats, the typical lifespan is generally around 5 years. This duration is constrained by the numerous threats and inconsistencies present in their outdoor lives. The life expectancy changes considerably when these geckos are kept in controlled settings, such as a terrarium. In captivity, where threats are eliminated and resources are consistently provided, a Common House Gecko may live for 5 to 10 years.
Factors That Influence Longevity
A variety of external pressures directly influence how long a house lizard survives in its natural, human-adjacent environment. Predation is a major factor, with common household pets like cats posing a constant threat to these small reptiles. They also face threats from larger invertebrates and aggressive gecko species, which they must outcompete or avoid.
The stability of their environment also plays a defining role in their survival. Geckos are ectotherms, meaning their body temperature is regulated by external conditions, so consistent temperatures and appropriate humidity levels are important for proper metabolic function. Access to consistent food and water sources is fundamental. House lizards are opportunistic insectivores, preying on insects attracted to lighting, but fluctuations in this food supply impact their health and reproductive success. Finally, disease and parasites can shorten a house lizard’s life, especially in high-density populations where transmission rates are higher.
House Lizard Life Cycle
The relatively short life cycle of the Common House Gecko allows for rapid population growth. Sexual maturity is reached quickly, typically within six months to one year after hatching. This fast maturation allows them to begin reproducing early in their lives. The female is oviparous, laying hard-shelled eggs, usually in pairs, which she adheres to a hidden, solid surface.
The hard shells of the eggs make them resistant to desiccation and physical damage. The incubation period is variable, ranging from approximately 46 to 62 days, depending heavily on the ambient temperature. Upon hatching, the young geckos are miniature versions of the adults, measuring around 46 to 60 millimeters in length. They receive no parental care and must immediately begin foraging and avoiding predators to survive and reach sexual maturity.