Nosy Bé Flat-tailed gecko

All species in the genus of flat-tailed geckos, or leaf-tailed geckos, are endemic to the forests of Madagascar and are masters of camouflage. With their flattened bodies, jagged skin edges and leaf-like tails, they blend in almost completely with tree bark or dry foliage.

The Nosy Bé Flat-tailed gecko (Uroplatus ebenaui) is the smallest known species in this genus. It is characterised by its short, arrow-shaped tail – which gives it its name – and its almost black oral mucosa. This makes it easy to distinguish from related species.

The species is found in the north and north-west of Madagascar, as well as on the island of Nosy Bé. There, it inhabits tropical rainforests and dry forests. At night, it hunts for insects in low shrubs and on branches.

During the day, the Nosy Bé Flat-tailed gecko rests motionless on branches and tree trunks or amongst dry leaves. Thanks to its excellent camouflage, it is almost impossible to spot there.

The Nosy Bé Flat-tailed gecko is vulnerable to deforestation, slash-and-burn farming and the conversion of its habitat into agricultural land. In addition, individuals are taken from their natural habitat for the international terrarium trade.