Phelsuma abotti pulchra RENDAHL 1939 is a subspecies of geckos. It typically lives near human settlements on Cousine-Island . Phelsuma abbotti pulchra feeds on insects and nectar.

Scientific synonyms:

• Phelsuma abbotti pulchra - HOESCH 1982
• Phelsuma longinsulae pulchra RENDAHL 1939

Description:

This lizard belongs to the middle sized day geckos. It can reach a total length of about 15 cm. The body colour is grass green or olive green. A rost-coloured stripe extends from the nostril to behind the eye. On the back there are brownish or red-brick coloured dots which typically form three line along the back.

Distribution:

This subspecies is only known from the Seychelles island Cousine-Island.

Habitat:

Phelsuma abbotti pulchra typically lives near human settlements. They preferably inhabit mango and banana trees . Often, many individuals can be found on one tree. This day gecko share their habitat with Phelsuma astriata astriata.

Diet:

These day geckos feed on various insects and other invertebrates. They also like to lick soft, sweet fruit, pollen and nectar.

Behaviour:

These Phelsumas often live in small groups with one male and several females per tree. Young males may also be tolerated.

Reproduction:

The pairing season is between november and the first weeks of april. During this period, the females lay up to 6 pairs of eggs. At a temperature of 28°C, the young will hatch after approximately 55 days. The juveniles measure 55–60 mm.

Care and maintenance in captivity:

These animals are quite active and therefore should be housed in pairs and need a large, well planted terrarium. In captivity, these animals can be fed with crickets, wax moth, fruits flies, mealworms and houseflies.

References:

• Henkel, F.-W. and W. Schmidt (1995) Amphibien und Reptilien Madagaskars, der Maskarenen, Seychellen und Komoren. Ulmer Stuttgart. ISBN 3-8001-7323-9
• McKeown, Sean (1993) The general care and maintenance of day geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA.