Wildlife

Geckos

Geckos often hunt insects near lights and may shelter on walls or ceilings; droppings and entry gaps can concern occupants.

Sharp macro close-up of a single house gecko on a painted exterior wall close to an outdoor light in the evening, a few small insects near the light, the gecko in sharp focus with detailed skin texture, soft warm evening light, shallow depth of field

House geckos are small, wall-climbing reptiles often seen after dark. They feed on insects and may wait near lights where insects gather. In Accra homes and compounds, they can be spotted on walls, ceilings and around windows, including near kitchen lights. They are generally shy, and their presence is not in itself evidence of a serious pest infestation. Individual species and behaviour can vary.

People most often notice droppings on walls, shelves or kitchen surfaces, or hear calls at night. Crepps focuses on keeping geckos out rather than harming them: we inspect likely routes, seal gaps, fit screens, reduce insects and the lights that attract them, and advise on safe cleaning of droppings. We do not recommend spraying or poisoning animals. The plan centres on practical exclusion and reducing the conditions that draw them inside, followed by checks for continued activity.

Signs

You may see geckos on walls or ceilings after dark, often near lights where insects gather. Look for small droppings on ledges, shelves or kitchen surfaces, and listen for occasional calls at night. A sighting alone does not show that the home has an insect infestation.

Why it matters

Geckos eat insects and are mostly harmless, but droppings can soil surfaces and calls may disturb sleep. Droppings in kitchens or food-storage areas need prompt, careful cleaning. Their presence may also point to gaps and insect activity that can be addressed without harming the animals.

The IPM approach

We inspect likely entry gaps and places where geckos gather, then recommend sealing and fitting screens. We consider insect activity and nearby lighting that may attract them, and advise on safe cleaning of droppings. The approach is to exclude and monitor, never spray or poison the animals.

Prevention

Fit or repair screens, seal gaps around windows, doors and service openings, and keep food areas clean. Reduce outdoor lighting near open windows where practical, since lights can attract insects that geckos feed on. Clean droppings using ordinary hygiene precautions and check whether they recur.

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