Geckoes: Biology, Husbandry, and Reproduction Hardcover – January 1, 1995

"Geckoes" translated by John Hackworth 1995, from the original German Edition 1991. John Hackworth, who is also an amateur herpetologist has done an excellent translation of this extensive manuscript. This book is an great reference for anyone interested in geckos. It has 77 species accounts covering the geckos that are most commonly kept in captivity. "Geckoes" covers information about geckos in detail that many other books of this type often over generalize. The book that I would recommend in every gecko enthusiast's library.

Okay, so the title of the book--"Geckoes"--is misspelled (should be "Geckos"). We're all human, and somebody made a conspicuous error in editing. Still--Written by two of Germany's premier and most successful students of gecko biology, the book is a goldmine, especially for beginners. Originally published in German as "Geckos: Biologie, Haltung und Zucht" (Stuttgart: Verlag Eugen Ulmer, 1991), this is the major contribution by these authors to the subject of keeping geckos successfully in terraria. About 70 species are covered, and the authors note other species that require similar care. The authors draw on some 30 years' experience studying geckos, which includes many years of field work observing the animals. The book is, therefore, as close to a first-person account of the lizards as you are going to find!Upside: Very well produced, with excellent colour photographs, adequate information about natural history, excellent information on keeping geckos.Downside: Pricey (though quality DOES cost more), and dicey translation. Many phrases in the text are clearly those used in German and make awkward translations in English. Nevertheless, text is smooth and readable, and someone not familiar with German will only have a few places where the text will have you scratching your head!Good book. Worth having.