Florida mulls reef gecko listing

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is considering listing a rare gecko species as threatened. The Florida reef gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus) is one of the smallest lizards in the United States, growing only 2-2.5 inches long. These geckos usually live in the mangrove areas on the southern coasts of Florida and occasionally occupy urban settings. The species faces threats such as a limited habitat and range, and commissioners with the state wildlife agency recommended this reef gecko as a candidate for threatened species status in May 2024. The agency is now seeking public comment on draft management documents such as a Species Action Plan and Species Conservation Measures and Permitting Guidelines. The Commission is accepting written comments through June 6, 2025. Read more at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.