Tree dtella facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tree dtella |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Gehyra
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| Species: |
variegata
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The tree dtella (scientific name: Gehyra variegata) is a small gecko found in inland Australia. It is also known as the variegated dtella or varied dtella. This gecko is part of the Gehyra group.
Contents
About the Tree Dtella
What Does a Tree Dtella Look Like?
The tree dtella is a small lizard. Its body, from snout to vent, grows to about 55 millimeters (2.2 inches). Its tail can be up to 70 millimeters (2.8 inches) long.
The color of a tree dtella can change a lot. This might mean there are actually different types of tree dtellas. Some are grey or brown with dark and light patches. Others have white or light brown spots with dark lines. These patterns create a cool, net-like design all over their back.
Special Scales and Claws
The scales on the tree dtella's body are small and smooth. It has several dark lines on the sides of its head. Its belly is usually whitish. The tail is long and gets thinner towards the end. It is usually about 55% of its body length.
The tree dtella has claws on its fingers and toes. It also has large pads at the tips of its digits. These help it climb easily. The inner fingers and toes do not have claws. This is a special feature of all geckos in the Gehyra group. Their toes also have special pads that help them stick to surfaces.
Where Do Tree Dtellas Live?
Tree dtellas live in dry and partly dry areas. These places include woodlands, shrublands, and rocky areas. They like dry conditions.
They can live in trees (this is called arboreal). They can also live among rocks (this is called saxicolous). You can find them under loose tree bark or inside hollows in trees. They also hide in cracks and under peeling rocks. When in trees, they prefer sheltered spots more than 1 meter (3 feet) off the ground. They can also be found under fallen branches and leaves on the ground.
Where Are Tree Dtellas Found?
Tree dtellas live across inland Australia. They are not found in the far northwest or southeast parts of the country. Studies show that these geckos can form groups that are connected even if they live in separate areas.
How Do Tree Dtellas Survive?
Tree dtellas are good at living in small areas of land that have been changed by humans. They can change how they use their habitat. For example, some tree dtellas in nature reserves live in shrubs. But others in small, broken-up areas of trees might hide in logs and eucalyptus trees instead.
The tree dtella is a cold-blooded animal (an ectotherm). This means its body temperature depends on its surroundings. It is also a thigmotherm. This means it gets its body heat by touching warm surfaces. For example, a tree dtella living in a tree will move under the bark. It moves to different spots as the sun warms different parts of the tree during the day. This behavior helps them control their body temperature. Scientists believe this is important for digesting their food.
What Do Tree Dtellas Eat?
The tree dtella eats many different insects and spiders. Its diet includes beetles, termites, grasshoppers, cockroaches, and spiders. They usually hunt for food during the first three hours after it gets dark. They tend to stay within 10 meters (33 feet) of their home area while foraging.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Tree dtellas can live for at least 5 years. They become adults and can have babies when they are about 3 years old.
They lay eggs (this is called oviparous). They lay one hard-shelled egg at a time. They usually lay eggs under cover, like bark, logs, or holes under rocks. They lay eggs twice during a breeding season, usually about one month apart. The eggs are about 10 by 11 millimeters (0.4 by 0.4 inches) in size. The first egg is usually laid in late November.
The eggs take about two months to hatch. Hatching happens after 61 to 79 days. Baby tree dtellas are about 45 millimeters (1.8 inches) long when they hatch. Sometimes, many females will lay their eggs in the same spot. One nest was found with 35 eggs in it!
Tree Dtella Behavior
Tree dtellas are mostly active at night (they are nocturnal). However, during cooler months, they will bask in the sun. They can also be active under cover during the day.
Male tree dtellas are territorial. This means they protect their living space. Often, one male will share a spot with several females. Tree dtellas can also live in human homes. You might see them near street lights at night, hunting for insects. If they feel threatened, tree dtellas can make a loud, high-pitched squeak.
Images for kids
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A tree dtella on a tree trunk.
