We started the week talking about the Leopard Gecko so it only seems fitting to end the week with another gecko, the Gargoyle Gecko. Personally, I have high expectations for this little reptile with a name like “Gargoyle”. I just picture them standing tall on some high-rise building in the city. I guess this picture is false since the Gargoyle Gecko is only found in the southern portion of the island of New Caledonia. I doubt they have tall skyscrapers with Gargoyles but you never know! So who is up for exploring a new island today to find a potential candidate for the CITES list.
So why are these medium to large sized Geckos called Gargoyles? Well, I am willing to bet it has something to do with all the tiny bumps that can be found on their head. For once I have to give credit to person who named this animal as it is actually a pretty clever and creative name. Besides their bumpy heads, the Gargoyle Gecko also has a long, thin, prehensile tail that is able to drop off (don’t worry it grows back) when they are threatened.
Unfortunately, dropping their tail won’t help them against their biggest threat. Of course, I am talking about deforestation, which is destroying their lowland forests of their Island home. As I mentioned, these Gecko’s are being considered to be placed on the CITES list which is a pretty good indication that their population may be in trouble. As a result of this consideration, they have put restrictions on the exportation of this cool looking reptile. So if you were looking to get a pet Gargoyle Gecko, it may be difficult.
If you are hoping to catch a glimpse of these cute gecko’s before they disappear then you should be on the lookout for a variety of colour variations. Yep, these little reptiles can be any colour from grey, brown, white, yellow, orange and even red. To make things even more interesting is the fact that they all have a variety of blotches and striping patterns. At least they have a full wardrobe and never have to worry about wearing the same thing twice.
I hope you enjoyed this week of Wild Facts. Have a great weekend and I will see you on Monday.
