Southern Leaf-tailed Gecko

Description:

The Southern Leaf-tailed Gecko has rough, scaly skin and a brown or grey, mottled pattern that resembles the sandstone habitat where it lives. They can grow up to about 15 cms, but this little guy was about 12 cms in length. When threatened or attacked, the tail is discarded for an escape to safety. Another tail then re-grows and the missing tail will decompose. They are nocturnal feeders, but it was only by chance that I spotted this one during the daylight hours. If you ever have the opportunity, try to look at them through a macro lens. They are truly awesome little critters that will take your breath away!

Habitat:

They live in urban areas and coastal sandstone heath, and are known to enter garages and houses in urban areas. They feed at night and shelter during the day in crevices or under rocks. Here, this fellow has wedged himself between the brickwork and blends in very nicely with the mortar.

Notes:

The photos in this series were taken in Tamborine Mountain QLD Australia.