A Barking Gecko

Contrary to popular belief, there are a few reptiles that actually prefer to be out night when it’s cooler. Those of you who have been following this blog for some time, will remember our first major encounter, and our Skink rescue mission. Both of these were during the day, because like most reptiles, Skinks need the warmth of the sun in order to move about effectively. A few weeks ago however, Melanie noticed this little boy sitting on the veranda around 9pm.

It’s a Barking Gecko. We’ve actually seen him on a few other occasions at night. Apparently they are territorial, so we assume it’s the same one. The barking gecko is apparently more cold-tolerant than other gecko species, and is often seen active on cold nights, which it was on this particular night (remember, it’s the middle of winter here).

They are interesting little creatures which maintain an aggressive posture when disturbed, sometimes raising its tail, opening its mouth, and leaping forwards towards the aggressor. It gets its name Barking Gecko because it may emit an audible ‘bark’ when aggravated, but it sounds more like it’s spitting, than barking. Like the Skink’s, it can detach itself from its tail in order to escape from predators.

A nice garden pet to keep the insects at bay!

Along the same lines...

• The Blue-tongued Lizard
• Happy New Year!
• Mission Accomplished!