TIRUPATI: The elusive Indian golden gecko (Calodactylodes aureus) has been spotted in Seshachalam forest ranges near the Kalyani Dam area in Tirupati district.The rare reptile, endemic to Eastern Ghats, had been spotted by a team of three wildlife photographers – ‘Birdman’ Karthik, I. Siddhartha and L. Gopi – during their expedition in search of birds and reptiles.The sighting of Indian golden gecko holds particular significance due to the limited distribution of the species and the difficulty in observing it in the wild.Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, the Birdman said the golden gecko is primarily nocturnal. Its daytime sighting is rare.Contrary to popular belief, Karthik pointed out that the “Golden” gecko is not always golden. “In fact, it comes in different morphs, not just the gold colour we’re familiar with. What’s interesting is this gecko’s skin texture. It’s very light, which means it can’t bear the heat well. This is why we often find them in cooler, shaded areas,” he explained.On the Indian gecko’s conservation status, the Birdman said the species is listed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, which affords it the highest level of protection. Regarding its current population status, he said spotting a golden gecko remains difficult due to its nocturnal habits and tendency to hide in rock crevices.“However, the species is now considered fairly robust, with sightings reported across various regions, including Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Tirupati and parts of Andhra Pradesh, even Visakhapatnam,” Karthik disclosed.
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