Heidi Sullivan, age 10, of Albuquerque, N.M., for her question:

HOW DID THE GECKO RECEIVE ITS NAME?

A gecko is a small lizard that lives in warm locations. One type can be found only on the island of Madagascar. The animal can make a very loud clicking sound that sounds very much like the word "gecko." The animal was named for this sound.

The feet of most geckos allow the animal to cling to smooth surfaces. Pads and hidden claws are located at the end of each toe. The pads are made up of many little hooks that make it possible for the animal to walk on surfaces that look smooth. It can walk on the ceiling. The claws are used on rough surfaces and work much like those ' of cats.

Geckos usually sleep all day and then come out at night to feed on insects. The animal has a thick tongue that is sticky, making it easy to snatch insects.

The gecko's skin is covered with small, granular scales. The large eyes are covered with immovable, transparent membranes. The animals are not poisonous.  The females lay white, hard shelled eggs.