(Indianapolis, IN) - The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is asking the public to report sightings of Mediterranean geckos, an exotic lizard species observed at several locations across the state.

According to DNR, the species is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and northern Africa.

 

They are 4 to 5 inches long and tan or pink with brown blotches on their body.  They can also be identified by their warty skin, banded tail, and large, bulging eyes that have vertical pupils.

 

DNR said the lizards are not dangerous and most active at night.  They can be observed near outdoor lights, feeding on insects during the warm season, or inside buildings at any time of year, according to DNR.
 

Any sightings especially those backed by photographs can be sent to to HerpSurvey@dnr.IN.gov.

Mediterranean geckos cannot easily spread in Indiana because they need a heated building to survive winter.   As a result, they are not considered a threat to Indiana’s natural resources, according to DNR.