Moorish Gecko Behavior and Adaptations

The Moorish gecko, named after the North African desert, thrives in both North Africa and southern Europe. It can survive without water for weeks and adapts to heat by hiding in crevices. Unable to sweat, it pants to cool down. After cold nights, it basks in the sun, but this exposes it to predators. During molting, its vision clouds, increasing vulnerability. Its tail can detach to escape predators. Geckos hunt at night, using suction cups on their feet to catch insects attracted to light. They conserve energy by waiting patiently for prey to come close.

Where does the Moorish gecko get its name from?

• Southern Europe

• North African desert

• Asian jungles

• Australian outback

How does the Moorish gecko cope with extreme heat during the day?

• By sweating

• By panting like a dog

• By drinking water

• By staying in the sun

What happens to the gecko's vision when it is molting?

• It becomes sharper

• It remains unchanged

• It goes cloudy

• It improves at night

What is a gecko's last line of defense against predators?

• Its sharp teeth

• Its fast running speed

• Its spiky tail

• Its loud hiss

What indicates that a gecko has survived a previous attack?

• A missing leg

• A smoother replacement tail

• A change in color

• A scar on its back

When do Moorish geckos prefer to hunt?

• During the day

• At night

• In the late afternoon

• In the early morning

How do Moorish geckos catch their prey?

• By setting traps

• By using their venom

• By waiting patiently

• By actively chasing them

What adaptation helps geckos climb surfaces?

• Sharp claws

• Long legs

• Sticky saliva

• Suction-cup toes

What attracts insects to the gecko's hunting grounds?

• The sound of water

• The light from lamps

• The warmth of the sun

• The gecko's scent