A big, bold gecko
Tokay geckos are large lizards with blue-grey skin dotted with orange spots. They climb smooth surfaces using adhesive toe pads covered in millions of microscopic hairs.
The call that named it
The male’s call starts with a series of clicks and builds into a loud “to-kay”, sometimes repeated many times. It is used to defend territory and attract mates. In homes across Asia the call is a familiar night-time sound.
Trade pressure
Tokays are collected in large numbers for traditional medicine and the pet trade, and this has caused local declines. Regulation of trade is an important part of protecting them.
Listen
What it sounds like: A loud, repeated “to-kay” call.
To hear independent recordings, try Freesound. Check each recording’s licence before reusing it. See Media & Sources.
Further reading: Nocturnal Noises: Which Animals Are Most Active at Night, and Why
Conservation status follows the IUCN Red List as we understand it at the time of writing. Assessments are revised regularly, so please check the IUCN Red List for the current listing.