Kuhl's Flying Gecko (Ptychozoom Kuhlii)

Common Name: Kuhl’s Flying Gecko
Scientific Name: Ptychozoon kuhlii
Source: WC

Adult Size: Typically 18–22 cm total length

Native Range: Southeast Asia including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and surrounding regions

Enclosure: Tall arboreal terrarium; minimum around 45 × 45 × 60 cm with vertical cork bark, branches and dense cover

Heating: Ambient 24–26 °C; no dedicated basking spot typically required; night drop around 20–22 °C

Humidity: 70–90 % with regular misting and strong airflow

UVB: low-level UVB

Diet: Small live insects such as crickets, roaches and flies offered regularly

Water: Fresh water dish available; drinks droplets from misting

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Ptychozoon kuhlii, commonly known as Kuhl’s Flying Gecko, is a highly specialised arboreal gecko found throughout parts of Southeast Asia. It is best known for the fringed skin flaps that run along its body, limbs and tail. When the gecko jumps or glides between trees, these membranes spread out, helping it slow its descent and control direction.

Its flattened body and bark-like pattern provide excellent camouflage against tree trunks. During the day the gecko often rests motionless against bark where its irregular outline and mottled colouration make it extremely difficult to spot.

At night the species becomes active, moving slowly along trunks and branches while searching for insects. Like other members of the genus, it relies heavily on vertical surfaces and hiding spaces such as bark crevices and hollows. In captivity, enclosures with plenty of vertical climbing structure and shaded areas help replicate the forest habitats these geckos naturally occupy.