Can YOU spot the gecko in these baffling photographs?
05.04.2016 21:00
They are known as masters of disguise in the animal kingdom - and these baffling pictures show one camouflaged gecko living up to the reptiles' reputation.
The images, taken by a photographer from Oslo, Norway, appear to show only a bare tree branch -but they actually highlight how a gecko can blend perfectly into its surroundings.
The reptile hidden away in these pictures is a Southern leaf-tailed gecko, also known as the mossy leaf-tailed gecko.
Its scales are consistent with the earthy brown colour and pattern of the branch and it is only when the gecko is seen from the side that its appearance becomes clearer.
Shots from above the camouflaged reptile, which is kept by a breeder in Norway, do not show its murky brown eye.
The Southern leaf-tailed gecko has evolved to blend into tree branches and nature perfectly as most can change their colour slightly to match their environments.
They are nearly impossible to find in the day - because they are nocturnal they sleep all day while in camouflage.
It is much easier to spot them at night with a torch because they are mobile and hunting for insects.
Photographer Thor Håkonsen, 39, from Oslo, said: 'The best way to spot these geckos in the wild is to go out after dark with a bright torch - then they move about hunting for insects.
'In the daytime they sit perfectly still, clinging to a tree or branch.
'They have evolved perfectly to blend in. They have fringes along their body which remove any shadows, making them as good as invisible to predators.
'They do not change colours as such - their fantastic camouflage has developed over time and is a great example of how evolution works.
'But like most other geckos they can change their colour to a degree, but this consists of their skin being altered so it is lighter or darker.
'This depends of varying factors like lighting, air temperature, mood and physical state of the gecko.
'The pictures are taken in Oslo, at a private breeder's place.'
(www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3522644/Can-spot-gecko-baffling-photographs-Master-disguise-blends-perfectly-surroundings.html#ixzz44w2dnF6F)
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