Type of animal: Gecko (a small lizard)
First discovered: 2016
Found in India only (endemic): Yes
Indian states: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
Habitat: Dense leaf litter on forest floor
Activity time: Nocturnal (night)
Food: Insectivorous (eats insects)
Living place: Terrestrial (ground)
Special trait: Also lives in human-changed areas and city green spaces
Recent sighting: Aarey forest, Mumbai
Unknown facts: Most of its natural history is still understudied
FAQ
Q1: What is Cyrtodactylus varadgirii?
A: It is a species of gecko in the Gekkonidae family.
Q2: What is Cyrtodactylus varadgirii commonly known as?
A: Giri’s Geckoella.
Q3: Is Cyrtodactylus varadgirii found only in India?
A: Yes. It is endemic to India.
Q4: In which Indian states is this gecko found?
A: Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Q5: Is this gecko dangerous to humans?
A: No. It is a small, harmless lizard that eats insects.
Q6: Why was it in the news recently?
A: It was spotted in Aarey forest in Mumbai by wildlife lovers and a researcher.
Q7: When was this gecko first discovered?
A: In 2016.
Q8: Does it come out during the day?
A: No. It is nocturnal, so it is active at night.
Q9: Can this gecko live in cities?
A: Yes. It can live in open and human-modified landscapes, including urban green spaces.
Q10: Do scientists know everything about this gecko?
A: No. Except for where it is found, other information about its life is not well known.