Rico the gecko is a class pet for Mr. Pat Kruger, who teaches both biology and AP Biology at Mason City High School. Arriving at the school in 2024, Rico has grown alongside the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who take any of Kruger’s classes. But the senior class knew the gecko Kruger had before, and the question they must answer in their hearts is “Is Rico really the gecko of the year?”
Kruger’s Class Pets: A Legacy of Lizards
Mr. Kruger has been teaching at MCHS since 2003. Before Rico, there was another leopard gecko named Leo (2011-2023). Now, only one-and-a-half years old, the infamous Rico lies in what was once Leo’s enclosure and spends most of his daytime napping. But sometimes, he wakes up and munches on a small snack.
When asked what they thought about Rico, several students said they enjoyed having Rico as a class pet.
“I think he’s cool,” said Indica Levad, class of 2029. “I haven’t really seen him, though.” This is because Rico the gecko spends most of his daytime hiding in his small stump instead of watching the students.
Gia McGee and several others reported they’d never had a gecko as a class pet before, making Rico a pleasure to have.
So, Why Rico?
In biology class, one of the first topics of focus is biomes. Leopard geckos originate from the desert biome, which Rico shows. Another unit taught in biology deals with the reproduction of cells.
“He could teach regeneration of cells and limbs if we were to detach his tail,” said Kruger. “It’s supposed to grow back, but I try not to do that.”
Another thing Rico teaches is the difference between nocturnal, diurnal, and crepuscular animals. Nocturnal animals, like owls, are active during the night. Diurnal animals, like humans, are active during the day. Crepuscular animals, like Rico, are only active during dawn and dusk.
So the question that everyone is wondering is, “Is Rico really the gecko of the year?” Well, it’s clear to see that this little critter is more than than just gecko of the year– he’s the gecko of the century.
