Glowing Eyes in the Night: Persian Wonder Gecko

Back in 2016, while working near one of the projects in Kizad, I came across an amazing looking creature for the very first time, the Persian Wonder Gecko (Teratoscincus keyserlingii).

This critically endangered species is rarely seen, and we were lucky to have the opportunity to safely capture and relocate a few individuals to similar natural habitats. These geckos are truly remarkable. At night, their huge, glowing eyes shine like those of a mammal when caught in torchlight. You can spot them from far away almost like little desert spirits hiding among the bushes.

Since that incredible encounter, I hadn’t seen a single PWG in any of my other UAE projects until now.

Just recently, during a nocturnal desert walk, we were out exploring under the stars. We spotted a few gems of the night: an Arabian Horned Viper, some gerbils, beetles, and a few gecko species. Then suddenly, something special caught our eye…

A large, glowing eye peeking out from beneath a Tetraena qatarense bush. We moved in closer and there it was.

The Persian Wonder Gecko. Again. After 8 years.

I couldn’t believe it. I was honestly overjoyed to see this elusive little guy once more. After a few respectful photos, he slipped quietly back into his burrow, and we let him be hoping there are more of his kind still out there, surviving in the quiet of the night.

Until next time, little wonder.