The Tokay geckos, protected under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, are a type of Asian lizards.

A Tokay Geko, locally known as ‘Keko xaap’ was rescued on Tuesday night at Patacharkuchi in lower Assam’s Barpeta district.

The Tokay geckos, protected under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, are a type of Asian lizards characterised by orange spots on the skin and a shrill croak.

Possession of and trading in Tokay geckos are banned in the country. Violation of the law is punishable by a jail term for up to three years.

One Pulin Sarma and his brother Kanak rescued the Tokay Geko from the backyard of their house and informed the forest department officials.

Forest official took possession of the Geko and rushed to a Veterinary hospital in Kokrajhar.

Forest officials said the Tokay Geko will be released at Manas National Park following its health examination.

Sasanka Talukdar is Northeast Now Correspondent in Pathsala. He can be reached at: [email protected]