Asian House Geckos, also known as barking geckos, have become a serious pest in Brisbane. While they may seem harmless at first, these invasive lizards are now outcompeting native geckos and causing real problems for homeowners.
Geckoes
What Are Asian House Geckos?
Invasive Species in Brisbane
- Origin: Native to Southeast Asia.
- First Appearance in Brisbane: Early 1990s.
- Nickname: Barking geckos, due to their distinctive “chuck, chuck, chuck” call.
- Spread: Now common in homes across most Brisbane suburbs.
Impact on Native Wildlife
- Outcompete Native Geckos: Asian House Geckos are more aggressive and breed faster.
- Mite Carriers: Known to carry red gecko mites on their toes, which may spread disease to other invertebrates.
Why Asian House Geckos Are a Problem
1. Property Damage
Asian geckos may cause:
- Short Circuits: In appliances like air conditioners, computers, and hot water systems.
- Trigger Alarms: Their movement can set off motion detectors.
- Damage to Fuse Boxes: Their presence around electrical systems is risky.
2. Health and Hygiene Concerns
- Excrement on Walls: Messy droppings are often left where geckos travel.
- Contamination Risks: Gecko feces can stain paint and leave a lingering smell.
- Allergens: Some people may be sensitive to the dust and debris from gecko activity.
How to Keep Geckos Out of Your Home
1. Block Entry Points
Asian House Geckos can squeeze through tiny gaps.
- Inspect Windows and Doors: Seal loose-fitting sections.
- Check Vents and Cracks: Use silicone or mesh to close access points.
2. Reduce Attractants
- Turn Off Lights Near Windows: Lights attract moths, which attract geckos.
- Cover Windows at Night: Prevent insects from drawing geckos indoors.
3. Remove Geckos Safely
- Use a Water Spray: This loosens their grip and makes them fall safely.
- Gently Pick Them Up: Relocate them outdoors using gloves or paper.
FAQs About Asian House Geckos in Brisbane
Are Asian House Geckos Dangerous?
Not directly dangerous to humans, but they damage appliances, spread mites, and displace native species.
How Do I Know If I Have Them?
Look for:
- Gecko droppings on walls and floors.
- Their distinctive nighttime chucking sound.
- Sightings around light sources or ceilings.
Are There Professional Treatments?
Due to their agility and protected status in some contexts, treatment focuses on exclusion and deterrence rather than elimination.
H3: Do Gecko Mites Affect Humans?
Red gecko mites are primarily a threat to other geckos and invertebrates. No confirmed evidence exists of them directly harming humans.
Why Professional Help May Be Needed
- Complex Entry Points: Geckos can enter through gaps as small as 5mm.
- Persistent Invasion: DIY exclusion is difficult without experience.
- Appliance Risks: Gecko presence in fuse boxes or switchboards should be assessed by a professional.
Tired of geckos making a mess of your walls or shorting your appliances? Asian House Geckos aren’t just a nuisance—they’re an invasive pest that can damage your property and push out native species. At Peter the Possum & Bird Man, we offer expert exclusion and prevention strategies to keep your home gecko-free—safely and humanely.
Contact us today for professional help keeping unwanted guests out for good.
