Dried Geckos in Hong Kong

Most traditional dried food stores in Western District on Hong Hong Island have dried geckos for sale. Mostly in pairs of a male and a female tied together. Apparently they became more populair because of unfounded claims that they are a cure against HIV/AIDS, cancer and other illnesses. The trade in geckos from Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines has skyrocketed in recent years and there is a real danger the animal becomes extinct. The usual story here. You claim that some animal part helps against any terrible disease or boosts your sex-drive and you are in business.

© Kees Metselaar Hong Kong 2011