The common house gecko is a small lizard you’ll often see on walls or ceilings, especially at night. The species most people in South Asia refer to is the Common house gecko.
What it looks like
- Light brown, gray, or slightly translucent skin
- Soft body with a somewhat bumpy texture
- Large eyes (no eyelids—they lick them to keep clean)
- Sticky toe pads that let it climb walls and ceilings
Why it’s in your house
They’re attracted to:
- insects (mosquitoes, flies, moths)
- lights, because bugs gather there
- warm, sheltered places
So if you see geckos, it usually means your home has a food source for them.
Are they dangerous?
- No, they are harmless to humans
- They don’t bite unless handled
- They’re actually helpful, since they eat pests
Downsides
- Droppings on walls or floors
- Some people find them unpleasant
How to reduce them (if you want)
- Keep lights near doors/windows off at night (reduces insects)
- Seal cracks and gaps in walls or windows
- Keep areas clean to avoid attracting bugs
Bottom line
The common house gecko is basically a natural pest controller living rent-free in your home—not harmful, just sometimes annoying.
If you want, I can tell you simple ways to keep them out without harming them.
