Dealing with gecko infestations in your home can be frustrating. While these small reptiles are generally harmless, they can become a nuisance when their numbers increase, leaving unsightly droppings and potentially carrying bacteria. This comprehensive guide will help you understand these creatures and provide effective solutions how to get rid of geckos from your property.
Quick Picks: How to Get Rid of Geckos
Most Effective
Best Trapping Method
Non-Toxic Option
- Understanding House Geckos: Biology and Behavior
- The Gecko’s Environmental Preferences
- Comprehensive Gecko Control Strategy
- Best Gecko Traps for Indoor Use
- Effective Gecko Repellent Solutions
- Natural and Botanical Repellents for Gecko Control
- Advanced Gecko Control Technologies
- Comprehensive DIY Gecko Prevention Methods
- Professional Gecko Control Services
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion: Managing Gecko Populations Effectively
Understanding House Geckos: Biology and Behavior
House geckos are small reptiles that commonly inhabit residential areas, particularly in warmer climates. While they offer natural pest control by feeding on insects, understanding their biology and behavior is essential for effective management.
Gecko Biology and Habits
These nocturnal creatures have evolved specialized adaptations that make them highly effective at invading and thriving in human habitations:
- Specialized toe pads with microscopic hair-like structures that create molecular adhesion, allowing them to climb vertical surfaces and even walk upside down on ceilings
- Ability to change coloration to blend into surroundings, darkening at night and lightening during the day
- Primarily nocturnal behavior, becoming most active during evening and night hours
- Strong attraction to light sources that gather insects, their primary food source
- Capability to autotomize (shed) and regenerate their tails when threatened, which takes approximately 3-4 weeks
- Distinctive vocalizations including chirps and barks used for communication
Feeding and Ecological Role
Geckos are insectivorous carnivores that provide a natural form of pest control. Scientific studies have demonstrated that certain gecko species can consume up to 100 mosquitoes per day, making them valuable for mosquito control in some regions. Their diet primarily consists of:
- Mosquitoes and flying insects
- Cockroaches and other household pests
- Spiders and small arachnids
- Moths and other nocturnal insects
- Crickets, mealworms, and other crawling insects
Common Species in Homes
Two species of house geckos are frequently encountered in North America:
- Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) – Native to Southeast Asia with coloration ranging from pinkish to grayish with darker patches; highly adaptable and can thrive in urban environments
- Mediterranean House Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) – Light-colored with mottled dark patches, now found worldwide after being introduced through international shipping and plant trade
While geckos can be a nuisance inside homes, they play an important ecological role in controlling insect populations. In tropical regions, they’re often considered beneficial for reducing mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects.
The Gecko’s Environmental Preferences
Understanding what attracts geckos to your property is crucial for developing an effective control strategy. These reptiles have specific environmental preferences that drive their behavior:
Light Sources
Geckos are indirectly attracted to light – not because they seek the light itself, but because lights attract the insects they feed on. Research shows that reducing outdoor lighting or switching to insect-resistant yellow “bug lights” can significantly reduce gecko presence around your home.
Moisture and Water
Geckos require regular access to water and are attracted to areas with consistent moisture. Standing puddles, leaky faucets, pet water bowls, and areas with high humidity act as gecko magnets. Fixing drainage issues and eliminating standing water can reduce their presence.
Temperature
Being reptiles, geckos are ectothermic (cold-blooded) and seek environments with stable, warm temperatures. In cooler climates, they’re particularly drawn to the warmth of human dwellings, especially areas near heat sources like water heaters, electronic equipment, and sun-exposed walls.
Shelter Requirements
Geckos need safe daytime hiding spots. Cluttered areas, stacked materials, dense vegetation against building walls, and structural cracks provide ideal shelter. Minimizing these hiding places can make your property less appealing to geckos.
Gecko activity often increases during warm, humid months when insect populations are higher. In regions with distinct seasons, you may notice greater gecko pressure during spring and summer, requiring more vigilant control measures during these periods.
Why Geckos Become a Problem
While geckos offer some benefits as natural pest controllers, their presence in and around homes can create several issues that warrant control measures:
Health Concerns
Health experts note that geckos can potentially harbor and transmit salmonella bacteria, particularly when they access food preparation areas. Their droppings can contaminate surfaces and may pose health risks, especially for young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.
Property Damage
Gecko droppings contain uric acid that can stain and damage fabrics, carpets, curtains, and painted surfaces. Over time, these droppings can cause permanent discoloration and may require professional cleaning or replacement of affected materials.
Noise Disturbances
Unlike many reptiles, geckos are vocal creatures. Their distinctive chirping, squeaking, and barking sounds—often amplified at night during their active periods—can disrupt sleep and cause annoyance, particularly when populations are large.
Psychological Impact
For many people, the sudden appearance of geckos can cause significant distress. Their ability to move quickly, cling to walls and ceilings, and drop unexpectedly can trigger fear responses even though geckos rarely pose any direct threat to humans.
Geckos typically enter homes through small openings around doors, windows, utility line entrances, foundation cracks, and roof vents. Once inside, they establish regular pathways between hiding spots and feeding areas, becoming increasingly difficult to control as they learn the layout of your home.
Comprehensive Gecko Control Strategy
Scientific research and pest management experience indicate that successful gecko control requires an integrated approach that addresses multiple aspects of gecko behavior and habitat preferences:
For optimal gecko control, follow this sequence: First trap existing geckos, then eliminate food sources, apply repellents, and finally implement preventative measures to maintain a gecko-free environment. This systematic approach prevents geckos from simply relocating to different areas of your property.
- Population ReductionBegin with trapping existing geckos using specialized traps placed along known travel routes and gathering areas
- Food Source EliminationImplement insect control measures to remove the gecko’s primary attraction to your property
- Habitat ModificationReduce moisture, shelter opportunities, and optimize lighting to make your environment less hospitable
- Barrier CreationApply effective repellents and seal entry points to prevent new geckos from accessing your living spaces
- Maintenance ProgramEstablish ongoing monitoring and periodic treatment to prevent reinfestation
According to environmental research, combining physical exclusion methods with targeted repellents provides significantly better results than using any single control method alone. This integrated approach addresses both immediate gecko problems and prevents future infestations.
Best Gecko Traps for Indoor Use
The first step in gecko control is to trap the existing population. These effective trapping solutions help reduce gecko numbers inside your home:
Cockroach and Gecko Glue Trap
These non-toxic adhesive traps use specialized baits that attract geckos and securely hold them once they make contact with the sticky surface.
How It Works
Contains bait formulated to attract geckos, with a strong adhesive surface that prevents escape once they step on it.
Where To Place
Position in areas with frequent gecko sightings, especially along walls, near windows, and in corners of rooms with gecko activity.
Gecko Lizard Enclosed Trap
This pre-baited trap uses synthetic insect pheromones to lure geckos into an enclosed structure with an adhesive floor.
Benefits
A single trap can capture up to six adult geckos and remains effective for approximately one month before the adhesive begins to deteriorate.
Placement Tips
Place in areas with high gecko activity such as the garage, kitchen, basement, or areas where droppings have been found.
Gecko Lizard Flat Trap
This flat design pre-baited trap works well in tight spaces where enclosed traps might not fit.
The flat trap design is ideal for placing under furniture, appliances, or in narrow spaces where geckos commonly travel. Each board can capture multiple geckos and remains effective for about a month.
Place traps along walls and in corners where geckos typically travel. For maximum effectiveness, use multiple traps throughout your home, focusing on areas with visible gecko activity or droppings.
Effective Gecko Repellent Solutions
After reducing the existing gecko population with traps, repellents help prevent new geckos from taking up residence in and around your home.
Pest Rid Spray and Granules
This two-phase treatment system uses EPA-exempt active ingredients that create an environment geckos find unpleasant without using harsh chemicals.
Indoor Application
Spray vertical surfaces where geckos typically climb, including window frames, door frames, and wall corners.
Outdoor Application
Apply granules around your home’s perimeter, in flower beds, and near entry points, then spray over the granules for enhanced protection.
Eco-Lizard Repellent Kit
This non-toxic repellent kit contains two specially-formulated bottles designed to drive geckos away from their preferred hiding and feeding areas.
How It Works
Creates an environment geckos find unpleasant, encouraging them to relocate without harming them.
Application Areas
Apply to ceilings, light fixtures, walls, and other surfaces where geckos frequently travel or gather.
Effectiveness
Provides gecko deterrence for approximately three months before reapplication is needed.
Natural and Botanical Repellents for Gecko Control
For those seeking eco-friendly gecko deterrents, several plant-based and natural options have shown effectiveness in repelling these reptiles:
Essential Oil Formulations
Several essential oils have demonstrated gecko-repelling properties. Commercial products containing peppermint oil, menthol, and lemon myrtle have shown effectiveness in making treated areas undesirable to geckos without harming them. These can be sprayed on surfaces where geckos frequently travel.
Garlic and Onion Solutions
The strong sulfur compounds in garlic and onions are highly repulsive to geckos. A spray made from crushed garlic cloves or onions steeped in water can be applied to areas with gecko activity. Though the smell is initially strong, it dissipates for humans while remaining detectable to geckos’ sensitive olfactory systems.
Eggshell Barriers
While scientific evidence is limited, many homeowners report success with crushed eggshells placed near entry points. The theory suggests that geckos associate eggshells with predator presence (birds and snakes that eat gecko eggs) and avoid these areas. This method is most effective when combined with other control strategies.
Repellent Plants
According to pest management resources, certain plants can create natural gecko barriers. Lemongrass, mother-in-law’s tongue (snake plant), and marigolds contain compounds that repel geckos when planted around home perimeters or placed in pots near entry points.
Natural repellents generally require more frequent application than chemical alternatives and may have reduced effectiveness during rainy periods. For optimal results, reapply these solutions every 1-2 weeks and after heavy rainfall.
Advanced Gecko Control Technologies
Beyond traditional methods, several innovative approaches have emerged for managing gecko populations:
Ultrasonic Repellers: Myth vs. Reality
Ultrasonic devices that claim to repel geckos have become popular, but their effectiveness is questionable according to scientific research:
Scientific Findings
Studies conducted at the University of Florida found that ultrasonic devices had minimal impact on gecko behavior in controlled experiments. Most geckos showed no significant aversion to the high-frequency sound waves these devices emit.
Practical Limitations
Even if somewhat effective, ultrasonic waves cannot penetrate solid objects like walls and furniture, creating “sound shadows” where geckos can remain unaffected. Additionally, geckos may become habituated to the sounds over time, further reducing effectiveness.
Electronic Gecko Barriers
New electronic systems create invisible barriers using harmless but unpleasant electromagnetic fields that discourage geckos from crossing certain boundaries. While more expensive than traditional methods, these systems offer a long-term solution for persistent gecko problems in critical areas.
Professional-Grade Granular Repellents
Advanced granular products used by professional pest management companies create effective perimeter barriers that discourage gecko activity. These products target the insects geckos feed on while creating an environment geckos find unpleasant, addressing both the direct and indirect aspects of gecko control.
For optimal results, consider combining technologies – for example, using ultrasonic devices in conjunction with botanical repellents and physical barriers rather than relying on any single technology solution.
Comprehensive DIY Gecko Prevention Methods
Implementing these preventative measures creates an environment that naturally discourages gecko habitation:
Strategic Lighting Management
Since geckos are attracted to insects gathering around lights, modify your exterior lighting to reduce insect attraction. Use yellow “bug lights” or sodium vapor lights instead of traditional incandescent or white LED bulbs. Consider motion-activated lighting that doesn’t remain on continuously, dramatically reducing insect congregation and subsequent gecko activity.
Advanced Sealing Techniques
Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior during both daylight and nighttime (using a flashlight to spot light penetration through cracks). Seal all openings with appropriate materials: use silicone caulk for small cracks, expandable foam for larger gaps, fine mesh screening for vents, and door sweeps for entryway gaps. Pay special attention to utility entry points, which are common gecko access routes.
Landscape Modifications
Create a “gecko-resistant zone” around your home by maintaining a 2-3 foot vegetation-free perimeter. Trim tree branches that overhang or touch the roof, remove climbing vines on walls, and maintain at least 12 inches of clearance between the ground and woodpiles or stored materials. These changes eliminate natural bridges geckos use to access your home.
Insect Population Management
Implement a comprehensive insect control program focusing on the specific insects prevalent in your area. This might include treating for ants, roaches, flies, and other gecko food sources. Consider using insect light traps away from your home to draw insects (and consequently geckos) away from living areas.
Moisture Control Strategies
Reducing environmental moisture makes your property significantly less attractive to geckos:
- Fix leaking outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and air conditioning units
- Ensure proper drainage around the foundation by maintaining gutters and downspouts
- Consider using dehumidifiers in damp indoor areas like basements
- Avoid overwatering plants near the home’s exterior
- Clean and properly store outdoor items that might collect water (buckets, toys, etc.)
Create a seasonal gecko prevention calendar: conduct thorough inspections at the beginning of spring, implement major control measures before summer when gecko activity peaks, and perform maintenance treatments in fall to prevent overwintering in your home.
Professional Gecko Control Services
For severe infestations or persistent gecko problems, professional pest control services offer specialized treatments and expertise.
Benefits of Professional Gecko Control
- Comprehensive property inspection to identify all entry points and hiding places
- Access to commercial-grade products not available to consumers
- Customized treatment plans based on your specific situation
- Follow-up visits to ensure complete gecko elimination
- Additional recommendations for preventing future infestations
Many pest control companies now offer gecko-specific services. When selecting a professional service, look for companies with experience in reptile control and positive customer reviews regarding gecko removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are geckos dangerous to humans?
Geckos are generally harmless and non-aggressive toward humans. They don’t bite unless severely provoked, and their bites are rarely painful or dangerous. However, like many reptiles, they can potentially carry salmonella bacteria, which poses a health risk if their droppings contaminate food preparation areas. This risk is greater for young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.
How do geckos get into houses?
Geckos can enter homes through tiny openings, including gaps around doors and windows, cracks in foundations, openings around pipes and cables, torn screens, vents, and even through open doors and windows. Their ability to climb vertical surfaces and squeeze into small spaces makes them adept at finding entry points. They can flatten their bodies to fit through gaps as small as 3/8 inch (about the width of a pencil).
Will geckos eventually leave on their own?
Geckos typically won’t leave a home that provides shelter, warmth, and a food source (insects). Without intervention, a gecko population is more likely to increase rather than decrease, especially if conditions remain favorable for them. Geckos can reproduce relatively quickly in optimal conditions, with females laying multiple clutches of eggs per year.
Are there any natural repellents for geckos?
Several natural substances have demonstrated gecko-repelling properties. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil create scents geckos find unpleasant. Garlic and onion solutions are also effective deterrents. Additionally, certain plants like lemongrass and marigolds contain compounds that naturally repel geckos when planted around home perimeters.
How can I prevent geckos from returning after removal?
To prevent gecko re-infestation, implement a multi-faceted approach: seal all entry points around your home, reduce exterior lighting that attracts insects, control insect populations (the geckos’ food source), remove debris and vegetation that provide hiding places near your home, and periodically apply gecko repellents around the perimeter of your property. Maintain a consistent prevention routine, especially during warmer months when gecko activity increases.
Are ultrasonic repellers effective against geckos?
The effectiveness of ultrasonic repellers against geckos is questionable. According to research conducted at the University of Florida, geckos showed little response to ultrasonic devices in controlled experiments. While some homeowners report success with these devices, scientific evidence doesn’t strongly support their effectiveness. If you choose to use ultrasonic repellers, combine them with other control methods rather than relying on them as a standalone solution.
How many geckos typically indicate an infestation?
Seeing 1-2 geckos occasionally doesn’t necessarily indicate an infestation. However, consistently observing multiple geckos, especially during daylight hours when they’re typically inactive, suggests a significant population. Finding numerous droppings in multiple areas of your home or hearing gecko calls from different locations also indicates a potential infestation that requires comprehensive control measures.
Can geckos damage electrical wiring or insulation?
Unlike rodents, geckos don’t typically chew through wiring or insulation, as their diet consists primarily of insects. However, they may nest in wall voids, attics, or around electrical fixtures, potentially creating fire hazards if their droppings accumulate near electrical connections or if they die in enclosed electrical spaces. Regular inspection of electrical areas in gecko-prone regions is recommended.
Conclusion: Managing Gecko Populations Effectively
Controlling gecko populations in and around your home requires a comprehensive, integrated approach that addresses both the immediate presence of geckos and the conditions that attract them:
Balanced Perspective
While geckos can be a nuisance indoors, they do provide valuable insect control in outdoor environments. Consider focusing your control efforts on keeping them out of your home rather than eliminating them from your yard entirely.
Persistent Approach
Successful gecko control typically requires consistent effort over time. Implement your control plan systematically, be patient, and maintain preventative measures even after you’ve dealt with the initial population.
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust your control strategies according to seasonal gecko activity. Intensify efforts during warmer months when geckos are more active and reproductive, and focus on exclusion and prevention during cooler periods.
By combining trapping methods, repellent applications, habitat modifications, and ongoing prevention techniques, you can effectively manage gecko populations and maintain a gecko-free indoor environment. For severe or persistent infestations, professional pest control services offer specialized expertise and access to commercial-grade products that can accelerate the control process.
Getting rid of geckos requires patience and a multi-faceted approach. Begin with trapping the existing population, followed by applying repellents and sealing entry points. Addressing the conditions that attract geckos, especially insect populations and moisture, is crucial for long-term success. For persistent problems, don’t hesitate to consult professional pest control services for more comprehensive solutions.
Not the earth, Frank, just our own homes.
I dont mind geckos, they are cute with there big eyes. But they dont belong in my house. They poo on my fly screens leaving a almost impossible task to clean. It seems to be like glue. Ended up using turps to try to dissolve the stuff. I have also been trying to breed soldier fly, dont know it readers know but the larvae will eat up almost anything. Please google about the soldier fly. Well those pesky geckos have been eating my soldier fly larvae , and untill I find a way to eradicate them I had to stop this project.
You people are fighting a losing battle , you can not eliminate geckos from the Earth. They will return to populate the place you have eliminated them from. They were here before you and will be here when you are gone.
Many years ago I found Geckos at work and brought a few home thinking they would be cool and I would have a unique lizard on my property however after about 15 years of coolness have turned into hostile takeover. They are now in my walls, in my attic and my shop and have miles of tunnels and ton of turds. They get in everything to nest and lay eggs. I have waged war on these pest. I use brake cleaner from the auto parts store, spray them and in seconds, dead right there.
So I have had two pest control companies come over to spray my home with insecticide. It has not made any difference. I hear the horrid klack klack klack sound they make in almost every room. The floor behind the couches has to be cleaned regularly, the porch also has to be cleaned daily. Insecticide only works on the really small ones, the medium sized geckos aren’t affected. I figured out that they are actually coming through the cracks in the windows where they meet the sill, which is practically impossible for me to fix. Online, I simply have not found any reliable methods for controlling these pests.
Anonymous’ above commentary could have been written by me. I live in Hawaii and have been struggling with a major infestation of geckos both inside/outside of my home for the past 9 years. Anyone that gets upset about killing/managing geckos has never had to deal with an actual infestation INSIDE of their home! We’ve tried to seal up everything possible, but they have made their nests/homes INSIDE my home within the interior eaves and other places we can’t reach or close off with sheetrock. I am tired of cleaning poop from our walls, floors, curtains, couch, every horizontal surface imaginable, and most upsetting – our freaking bed… day after day. I’m tired avoiding turds while “letting it dry” before cleaning it up, so as to avoid smearing wet poop into my couch…!! I actually keep junk mail papers lined on the areas most prone to getting pooped on. Just like the commenter above, our eaves outside are also just covered in shit. I don’t understand why our house has been targeted by these geckos as our neighbors do not seem to have an issue with poop-encrusted eaves. When I’ve expressed concern about the geckos to our neighbors I’ve been met with horror that I would even dare complain about them. They obviously aren’t dealing with this issue. I’ve considered what could be different about our house versus our neighbors, but don’t feel that we have any more of an issue with insects as I bait inside regularly, and given that we live in a condo complex we are sprayed on the same schedule as everybody else. We are clean folks living without any kids or pets. I’ve noticed the population has become much worse over the past 6 months to a year. I hope someone comes up with a non-toxic solution. I don’t want to spray insecticide inside the house. Thanks for letting me vent here. Aloha.
Thanks geckos for keeping cockroaches, mosquitoes and ants from invading the house.
Ants, cockroaches and mosquitos are all FAR easier to control than LARGE populations of house geckos. I’m glad youre not experiencing gecko takeover… I am truly a lover of all creatures, but when they number in the 100’s… and they’re taking over your home/bed/couch/every surface imaginable without a way to control them, ya start to feel a little differently about their beneficial qualities. These aren’t even the “cute” ones. They are nude in color and are kind of creepy. In moderation, nothing seems too terrible…
I absolutely hate them as well! I live in the Caribbean and they are everywhere. My strategy to get them out of my washroom was to spray the walls and ceilings with a mixture of diesel and black disinfectant (make sure to use masks and give time for scent to decrease; I’d say 48-72hrs). To kill them, chlorine bleach whenever I see them outside. I spray them, just make sure they stay in the bleach for some minutes…then they die. Not the best, but I’ve seen my infestation dwindle to maybe a 3 or 4 geckos in about 6-8 months from a massive colony (I’d say dozens). Also, whenever I see babies I smash them, sorry but the infestation was too much for my family. I mean, shit everywhere…and don’t tell me to clean my house, because my house is cleaned weekly and there are few bugs and almost zero spiders. So I have no idea what they were eating, but I got rid of their colony. Now I spray the walls once monthly, don’t see them anywhere near the house. When I see them on the exterior walls or the neighbors walls I KILL THEM!
Hello there
Keen to try the bleach spray. Did you find that the bleach spray damage surfaces?
Thanks
Unfortunately, yes. On the concrete walls is fine for me as I can just re-touch the paint. But on the wooden floors/tiles, there are problems. It damages the surface. If you can, I would say chase them out the house then do the bleach spray.
A fly swatter will stun the smaller ones long enough to do what you want with them. Glue traps work if you have enough of them scattered around. Keep the glue traps out of the path of your robotic vac. I saw a small bottle of bait for insects at HD that I am going to try.
We have found that normal insect spray that you might use inside the house for flies or mosquitos kills the smaller ones. And if you can spray them directly, it stuns the medium size ones enough for my husband to pick them up with paper and flush them. But it doesn’t seem to affect the really big ones. And we have extremely high ceilings so cannot always get to them.
Location: Bali, in the mountains and in a rice paddy valley there in. House, 8 years old, all cement, told no need for screens and such (Wrong!). Substantial canopies now in place. Attempts to catch the big ones, which are about 20 cm long, inside the house has normally left a huge mess on the walls. Has anyone tried using CO2 (like from a fire extinguisher) to stun them? long enough to catch and place in a transport container. Tried various insect sprays, wife did that, will stop at that. Skip the benefits of them and yes I care. My targets are normally 3-4 meters above me. Saw the brake cleaner idea. No BS on the professionals, none available of my liking.
Use a vacuum cleaner to rid of house lizards. Best way.
The little ones are inside my house, the adult geckos you can see outside at night when you turn on a porch light or 2. But all of them stay in our attic during the day. Our house is being over run with all sizes of geckos. They get in my bed at night and I don’t have any lights on at night in my bedroom. So what’s up with that. We can hear them crawling on our bed. Ugh. I cannot take it anymore. Kill, kill, kill. No, I used to try to get them out of the house without harming them, but now, I want to get rid of them permanently. Until you have to fight with them every night to get them out of your bed, don’t judge me.
Get a cat…. I live in AZ, have a ton of them outside with only a few found inside – always next to the doornthey probably came in from. Most of the time I dont evn notice – its usually 1 of my 3 cats playing with something that I know by now, is either a scorpion or a tiny (usually pink baby) gecko. While I’m usually able to put a cup over them & slide a pc of cardboard underneath to catch/ put outside, I have wide masking or duct tape strips around to grab quick enough to ‘stick’ & kill the nasty bark scorpions easy enough – though am completely disgusted every time. Rather have geckos than scorpions any day… Salmonella is commonly associated with most reptiles like pet turtles too – so not really too freaked out about that… it’s not an automatic thing for every single one of them every time either. But everyones entitled to their own feelings/ opinions
Anybody upset with the killing or removal of geckos is not dealing with an actual “infestation”. We have dozen or more INSIDE the house. They poop on EVERYTHING to the point that I can’t keep up with the cleanup, or even reach many of the places they are pooping. The high ceiling beams, the ceiling fans, the hanging lights, the couch, walls, floors and most insulting…. MY BED have multiple droppings all day EVERYDAY…
We’ve tried sealing up the house, but are still unable to figure out where they are coming in from. Our eaves outside are absolutely COVERED in shit. I used to love geckos until I had to live inside with them. I understand they are beneficial to keep down the insect population, but I know how to deal with the insects… these f’ing geckos are a whole ‘nother story… I don’t want to spray insecticide inside the house (please don’t anybody do that! It’s poison you know…) I am at my whit’s end…
I totally get you. We have had a similar experience. And I hate them! I don’t know how many we have, but there is poop on the ground that has to be cleaned up every morning, outside our front door, back door and porch. The shit everywhere is quite unnerving. The floors of two spare rooms in the house were so covered that you could barely walk without stepping on some. I would like to be able to walk barefoot in my own bedroom, and to sleep comfortably in my own bed without having to worry if one of them is going to shit on us in the night AGAIN! And they have cost us money by shorting out the air conditioning units and the gate mechanism.
Maybe a solution for some, because it was for me….I’ll condense it down to short facts, so here we go.. Moved into new home recently. Noticed and had to clean up alot of gecko shit daily. Assessment made after dark proves gecko infest, averaging a dozen per every (100 sq ft) external wall area. Phenol doesn’t deliver punch desired. Research and thought invested. Realized and now announcing I believe their generosity toward these pests stems from some other mental condition. 2 – Poison experiments completed during night. First use Dichloromethane separated from gel paint remover spray remote. To much collateral damage found on home structure. Second gasoline / high octane (LL100) Avgas pump spray. *Excellent Results! Pros = Single body shot kills, Cleanup easy due to quick evaporation. Cons = Fire hazard, Pump sprayer internal damages in short time.
I appreciate geckos because they eat cockroaches which I despise. I have lived in my home for decades and the number of times I’ve found any inside is minimal, less than 10, certainly no more than. I catch them with my hands and put them outside. I have never contracted salmonella or been sick from any germ requiring professional medical attention. I want to know how best to harmlessly evict the lizards before applying pesticide outside my home. They keep the insect problem from being worse but over the years I have seen about 10 cockroaches per year, and even though most have been dead or dying I prefer seeing none.
Can I place my gecko glue trap on the wall because I mostly see them on the wall, I don’t think they ever come down
They actually went into a hoy hoy roach trap, maybe because there was a roach inside. Used oil to get them out, but make sure it doesnt get in their noses. There is something online of a girl using coconut oil to free one. Can free them someplace safe later
Bug spray works well if gecko is sprayed with enough spray. The gecko will then be slow or still at which time you can grab him with a paper towel, deposit him in the toilet bowl, and flush. Works for me!
Got one in the garage, attached to the house, so no, I do now want it in my house. I sprayed wasp/hornet spray, soaked it plenty, covered it a couple of times and it still ran away. One was on the porch running over egg shells and I sprayed Raid on it, half a can, ran off. I guess a .38 might stop them.
These things are everywhere, I think am going crazy cos I get really irritated when I see their turds, I just want them out fast.
I am just unfortunately starting to deal with this nightmare. I don’t want to kill them either but I certainly don’t want them in my house. I hope all of this friendly crap that I am trying to get rid of them works. I honestly never would have thought about bug spray until I read the above comments lol.
why won’t the regular Pest Control Companies use these methods of either
controlling or getting rid of Geckos. It would be worth it to aging homeowners who do not have the capability of handling this kind of
operation?
WTF… Geckos are way better than other infestations. You a4 just lame sissies. Live Arizona and Chicago with those scary b0gers creeping inside your house. Icky. Rotten. Geckos are tame..
I agree
I’ve sprayed them with both essential oils and insect spray. The oils take longer to kill them but the insect spray is quicker. The only problem is if they get away and die inside – smell is dreadful!
I live in northern Australia and we have the non-native Asian gecko that is wreaking havoc with our native critters etc. How do I kill them/get some of your stuff? I don’t care what the leftie tree-huggers have to say, they’re an import and I just want to kill them – They’re just pests.
I live in Hawaii and the geckos and droppings are nasty.. don’t want to kill them just want to keep them out of the house …. any suggestions please
dude Try placing egg shells where you always see them
Gecko’s were running over the top of egg shells, which I placed outside and they seemed to laugh at them.
U could as well get the gecko traps, once they get caught u can discard them without killing them. At least u let nature decide their fate.
Why! :’0
I live in Texas where I see Geckos running around the outside of my house and yard all the time but I have never seen one inside my house ever. I have several indoor cats and though they have never actually killed any Geckos to my knowlege as I have never found a Gecko carcass (my cats will kill bugs but won’t eat them so I highly doubt they would eat a Gecko); the Gecko must sense the presence of the cats in the home & have not ventured inside! The cats are wonderful Gecko barriers inside my home.
The people that like the geckos do not have turds sticking to their walls and crawling outside the walls of my house.
If i do not get rud if them they will be inside.
I killed one in the shower the other day.
I am getting these things before they take over our house.
My problem is in my garage and outside. I started shooting ten a night with my BB gun. Now only finding and shooting one or two a day. Population is dwindling fast… They are disgusting, filthy creatures who leave turds stuck all over my walls!
Finally found the answer—
You will need:-
1. Garden sprayer pump bottle with adjustable nozzle to squirt a high pressure jet
2. Brakekleen liquid- pure hydrocarbon for cleaning brake components
3. Headlamp- provides hands free operation
4. Darkness, a window with a light on inside and just like the gecko the element of stealth, surprise and an unsuspecting prey
Step 1- armed with Brakekleen- yes spelt right- in your pump bottle adjust nozzle to squirt jet which when fully pressurized will reach about 5-6 metres
Step 2- wait till dark especially after rain when insects are most prevalent and get ready for some gecko action- turn on all the lights inside for more!
Step 3 When sneaky gecko is stalking his prey on the window- you are stalking it! Just like the insect the gecko will never know what hit it. Spray gecko with jet and watch him slip off the wall or window and splat on the ground in front of you- Brakekleen is very slippery when wet- the element of surprise!
Step 4 keep spraying as the gecko cannot get traction on anything to get away and the hydrocarbons will shortly immobilise his dirty little body- if you should feel sorry for it smack it with the botle while its in its death throws
Step 5 place geckos body next to known ant trail or nest and as Brakekleen compltely evaporates with no residue the ants will love it- I watched 2 get carved up today by ants while they were still in their death throws while cleaning out my shed!
For John and co who love geckos on their property- geckos are cruel to insects by eating them! I would muck rather se ants on my property have a great feed because they are scavengers and thoroghly clean the joint unlike geckos! Ants dont deposit Salmonella Turds!!!
Dave you’re correct, best thing on the market. I use the aerosol can from the parts store.
Sounds cruel to have them starve to death on the glue trap.
Isn’t it worse for a person, possibly a child, to contract salmonella poisoning from their numerous fecal droppings?
But that’s not true – it’s a myth propelled by the Extermination industry. But it is a great way to get people to spend their cash.
Clean your house and you won’t have problems with salmonella.
Great point, especially if you have children in the house!
I know! I would rather have the occasional lizard turd then roach poo, roach disease, ect. around my home!