Common name: Eastern Sand Gecko

Scientific name: Stenodactylus leptocosymbotes

Family: Gekkonidae

Size:

SVL: 80 mm

Tail length: about 0.6–0.8 times the SVL

Identification:

A medium-sized, robust ground gecko with a large, broad head and weakly to moderately protruding nostrils. The eyes are large, with vertical pupils that have irregular edges. The upperparts are covered in small scales. Colour varies, usually pinkish or light brown with small dark brown spots and larger blotches or bands. The tail is short and round, with 3–5 bands that do not reach the tip. Juveniles have a dark tail with a white tip. The toes are slender, not flattened or fringed and without adhesive pads, with usually five rows of sharply pointed scales beneath. Two preanal pores are usually present in both sexes. Very similar to the Dune Sand Gecko (Stenodactylus doriae).

Habitat:

Firm, compact ground: consolidated sand, alluvial and gravel plains, including gravel plains between dunes and plains bordering the Hajar Mountains. Unlike the Dune Sand Gecko, it avoids soft sand and dune areas.

Status in the UAE:

Native, not endemic to the UAE. Widespread in arid desert areas from sea level to about 400 m, and abundant in suitable compact-soil habitats. Also occurs in Oman and southeastern Yemen.

Diet:

Carnivorous — feeds on insects and other arthropods.

Behavior:

Nocturnal and ground-dwelling. Digs burrows and hides in them during the day. It can shed its tail, but only near the tail base. Females lay clutches of two hard-shelled eggs. Non-venomous.

Conservation status:

UAE National Red List: Least Concern (LC)

Global: Least Concern (LC)