There’s a brand-new character joining the Busy Izzy and Friends world, and he’s already winning hearts! Meet Zecko the Gecko, the lovable little lizard who belongs to Zoologist Zara. With his quick moves, curious nature, and bright personality, Zecko adds a spark of fun and plenty of learning opportunities to the Busy Izzy and Friends series.
Zecko is no ordinary reptile. He’s a friendly gecko with a cheeky grin, sticky toes, and a love for adventure. Children will delight in his playful antics, from climbing walls with ease to blending into his surroundings with his amazing camouflage skills. Zecko shows kids just how fascinating geckos really are while bringing joy, laughter, and discovery to every story.
In fact, Zecko isn’t just a sidekick—he’s an important part of Zara’s work as a zoologist. His keen instincts often help the friends learn more about the natural world, whether it’s animal habitats, teamwork in nature, or the importance of protecting our environment.
Zoologist Zara has always been passionate about animals, and Zecko is her loyal companion. Together, they demonstrate kindness, curiosity, and respect for nature. Through their adventures, children see how rewarding it is to care for pets and appreciate wildlife.
Zecko plays a vital role in helping Zara explain complex ideas in simple, kid-friendly ways. For example, when Zara talks about how bees help pollinate flowers or how ants build their homes, Zecko is there—listening, learning, and sometimes even leading the way!
Children are naturally fascinated by reptiles, and Zecko gives them a chance to learn in a safe, engaging, and friendly way. His silly expressions and brave little stunts provide endless entertainment while sparking curiosity about science and animals.
Some fun facts about geckos that kids will discover through Zecko include:
Geckos have special toe pads that let them climb almost anything—even glass!
Some geckos can drop their tails when they feel threatened, and it grows back later.
Unlike many lizards, geckos can make chirping sounds to “talk” to one another.
By weaving these fascinating details into stories, Busy Izzy and Friends helps children develop a love of animals, nature, and discovery.
The Busy Izzy and Friends series is all about combining fun with learning. Zecko plays an important role in teaching children:
Science and Nature – inspiring curiosity about reptiles, insects, and the natural world.
Responsibility – showing how to care for pets and respect all creatures.
Teamwork and Friendship – proving that even the smallest friends can make a big difference.
Parents and teachers will appreciate how Zecko encourages both knowledge and empathy, making him a perfect addition to classrooms, storytime, or family reading.
With Zecko the Gecko joining Zoologist Zara and the rest of Busy Izzy and Friends, children can look forward to even more exciting adventures filled with music, laughter, and valuable life lessons. Zecko may be small, but his role in inspiring curiosity and caring for the world around us is huge.
So keep an eye out for Zecko in upcoming Busy Izzy and Friends books, shows, and songs, you never know what amazing surprises this little gecko has in store!
Sneak Peek at a brand new character and her pet, featured in Book 4 of the Busy Izzy and Friends series - due to be published 2025
Zara likes to stroll, notebook in hand,
in awe of the wonders across nature’s land.
She studies the creatures that wriggle and roam,
Each one with a dream of building a home.
One day while walking lost in her zone,
She found a small gecko scared and alone.
She picked him up gently and he became calm,
Looking up, tucked up warm in her palm.
"What shall I call you, my cute little pet?
Zecko the Gecko, it’s perfect, we’re set!
You look hungry, Zecko, time to eat?”
Zara found wriggly insects, a wiggly treat!
She built him a home of branches and vines,
And sloping planks for climbing lines.
With his sticky toe pads, he climbed up with ease,
A daring display of gecko trapeze!
He climbs like a master, without any sound.
For hours and hours, he’ll hang around.
Zecko is a gentle and loving pet,
He likes to be dry and not getting wet.
He doesn’t mind when Zara’s away,
He’s happy napping during the day.
But when night-time comes, he skitters about,
It’s Zecko the gecko’s fun hangout.
He loves being tickled under the chin,
Never high up on his delicate skin.
This cheerful gecko is never alone,
With Zara beside him, Zecko is home.
Meet Zecko the Gecko, Zoologist Zara’s clever pet in Busy Izzy and Friends! Fun, educational, and full of adventure for kids who love animals.
©2025 Roxanne Kiely - art by Zara Yelas
