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In many cultures, gecko lizards have been traditionally viewed as harmless creatures, often revered and protected from harm. The lgbos call it Agu Uno, in Hausa land they call it Tsaka, and Omo onílé in Yorùbá. However, recent accounts shared online have painted a different picture, casting these once-friendly house guests in a negative light. Wall geckos may seem harmless, but they can pose risks to humans. They often hide in homes and can carry diseases like Salmonella. Their droppings and shed skin can contaminate surfaces, making people sick.
Eugene Onah, a zoology and environmental biology lecturer at the University of Nigeria, said; "One wouldn't automatically die just because a wall gecko fell into the food one is eating" he said. "However, because the wall gecko carries a lot of bacteria in its mouth, the tendency of one getting infecte from the bacteria is high. Also, some of the bacteria multiply within a short time which can cause serious harm in one's body within a short while." Geckos can also damage property by staining walls and chewing on wires. To prevent gecko problems, keep your home clean and use natural repellents like garlic or eggshells. For those seeking to rid their homes of these unwanted visitors, here are five ways to prevent wall geckos from your home.
- Install mesh Screens on all windows and doors, especially if they don't close tightly. Geckos can slip through small openings, so it's crucial to seal off potential entry points. Even popular aluminium sliding windows may not provide sufficient protection, as geckos can effortlessly enter from below, even when closed. 2
. Use Garlic: - Deploy garlic as a natural repellent by placing cut cloves near areas where geckos frequent, particularly where droppings are spotted. The pungent odour of garlic is known to deter geckos, explaining their absence in kitchens where this aromatic bulb is often used. 3. Employ Egg Shells: - Utilize eggshells as another effective deterrent. Scatter broken eggshells in areas where gecko activity is prevalent. Remarkably, geckOs harbour a deep aversion to eggshells, perceiving them as a threat, which can drive them away.
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