Black-eyed Gecko

The black-eyed gecko is an alpine South Island species distinguished by exceptionally dark eyes. It has velvety grey-brown or olive mottling and large nearly black eyes without the bright iris colours of many other geckos.

Scattered populations occupy high rocky country in Marlborough and northern Canterbury. It uses deep cracks for shelter and can be active in cool conditions while hunting invertebrates.

Black-eyed gecko is Threatened — Nationally Vulnerable (NZ Threat Classification). Remote alpine localities and its crevice habits make it rarely seen by general visitors.