I am having a problem with geckos

Question: I am having a problem with geckos. I know they can’t harm me, but I am really afraid of them and don’t want to think about them being in my house. I know they are good because they eat bugs, but I prefer they stay outside. How can I keep them out of my house?

Answer: Geckos are common in houses and buildings that are surrounded by vegetation, especially homes that have shaded yards. They are pests simply by their presence indoors. They do not live in or infest houses, but come in from surrounding vegetation to find insects (food).

Usually they are following the insects that are attracted to outdoor lights. Lights often attract moths and many other insects. Of course, geckoes don’t bite people or animals, and would eventually move out of the house, unless they get lost indoors.

One strategy is to keep them out by keeping doors and windows closed or screened. Replace missing or damaged weather stripping. Reducing the vegetation around the house and limiting outdoor lights at night may also be helpful.

Another highly effective control strategy is to control the insects around your home that they are looking for. In order to do this, contact your local Orkin branch office and arrange for a comprehensive inspection by a highly trained Orkin Pest Specialist. After the inspection, a customized treatment strategy will be developed and put into action by your Orkin Pest Specialist.