This little critter has given me a startle a few times... it probably has a brother or sister in the house too. It is a Mediterranean Gecko. Not the greatest picture, but it is only about 2" long (a baby) and I cannot get down to its level very well right now. You can almost see through its feet.
Pictures should open in a new window at Flickr.
Description: 4 - 5 in (10 - 13 cm). Unlike any native lizard, geckos have sticky toe pads, vertical pupils, and their large eyes lack eyelids. Indo-pacific geckos are generally light gray or almost white in color but may have some darker mottling. This species is most easily distinguished from the similar indo-pacific gecko by its bumpy or warty skin.
Prey: Geckos eat a wide variety of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.
Reproduction: Female Mediterranean geckos lay several clutches of two eggs throughout the summer. Instances of communal nesting have been reported, with several females laying their eggs together under bark, in crevices, or in moist soil.
Abundance: The Mediterranean gecko is firmly established in Florida and is spreading northward. It is almost always associated with human development and is an abundant species in suburban and urban areas.
Notes: This species' adaptability has made it a very successful invader. It is unknown what impact the introduction of this and other species has and will have on native wildlife. Unlike most lizards, geckos are capable of vocalizing, often making squeaking or barking noises in territorial disputes or to deter a predator.
More info here: Mediterranean Gecko
The Angel Trumpet did not produce as many blossoms this year.... not sure what we did differently. The blooms we did have were pretty.
I saw these along my walk the other day. The red flower is a type of morning glory too.
I had not seen these pretty little red flowers before last year. They are called Turks Cap. I did enhance the color slightly on this photo. The flower on the left has fallen over and is beginning to wilt.
Another Turks Cap. I still need more practice. I cannot seem to get everything in the focus I want.
Autumn is here.... at least it should feel like it next week. I do love the change in lighting. The change of flora. The change of aromas. The coolness in the morning air. A time I can enjoy with windows up or enjoy the patio with a cup of coffee in one hand and a good book in the other hand.
