What Do Geckos Eat in Arizona?
Geckos are a species of small lizards that are native to many warm climates around the world, including Arizona. While there are many species of geckos, all of them have similar dietary needs and can be found living near the same types of food sources. In the Sonoran Desert, geckos can be found feasting on delicious insects.
Insects
Insects make up a large portion of the gecko diet in Arizona. They enjoy eating:
- Crickets
- Grasshoppers
- Beetles
- Cicadas
- Ants
- Moths
- Spiders
Geckos have developed a wide range of clever ways to hunt down these tasty insects. Some gecko species, such as the Edwards’ Gecko, will rely on their keen eyesight and quick reflexes to catch their prey. Other species, such as the Tokay Gecko, may use their sense of smell to hunt down insects at night. Geckos are known to use the same hunting grounds over and over, meaning that they have learned which spots are the most bountiful.
Fruit and Nectar
In addition to their fondness for insects, geckos can also be seen foraging for small amounts of fruit and nectar. Common sources of food for geckos in Arizona include:
- Cactus fruits and flowers
- Prickly pear
- Mulberries
- Cherimoya
- Olives and other wild berries
The consumption of these snacks is usually quite light, as geckos need to conserve their energy for the pursuit of the larger insect prey.
Conclusion
Geckos are amazing inhabitants of the Arizona desert, and their diet is just as varied as the flora and fauna that can also be found in the region. From grasshoppers to cactus fruits, geckos have evolved to survive and thrive in this harsh landscape. So the next time that you find yourself in Arizona, go ahead and take a closer look at the geckos around you – you might just be surprised at what you find them feasting on!
