Shakti Denis

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May 1, 2025, 6:51 AM

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Updated

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What started as a shared obsession with geckos has turned into a new hands-on experience in Williamsburg.

The Gecko Gallery, set to open to the public later in May, is home to nearly 200 geckos from around the world — including endangered species from Madagascar, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and beyond.

Co-founders Richie Laleh and Joseph Migirov each kept more than 100 geckos in their homes before deciding to open a public gallery.

“These are slices of nature,” Migirov said. “We try to replicate the environments these animals come from.”

The goal is more than just showing off rare reptiles. The gallery aims to educate visitors about conservation and how to protect the fascinating animals.

“We’re able to put a gecko in someone’s hand and let them experience how amazing it is,” said Laleh. “They can leave happy and more aware that a lot of these animals might not be here in a decade or two.”