Dwarf Gecko (Sphaerodactylus macrolepis)

There are two known species of dwarf gecko on Saint Martin, and Sphaerodactylus macrolepis is the smaller by a hair. Both are a bit over an inch long and are found in leaf litter in forested areas. Although they may be common, you will probably never see one unless you are trying. Overturning lightweight items on leaf litter, such as small logs or trash is the easiest way to find them. I have not seen them under heavy rocks. Thus far, I have encountered this diminutive gecko in the forested areas of Ilet Pinel as well as near the summit of Pic Paradis. It can be distinguished from the other dwarf gecko (Sphaerodactylus sputator) because it is darker in color and has a characteristic pair of light spots on a dark patch on the back of its neck.

Photos