I uncovered this pretty little gal while watering the other day.  She was hanging out with my friend Rocky the toad.  I think that must be prime real estate where they are.  Judging by Google images I’m guessing this is a Mediterranean house gecko.  I find it interesting in Latin they’re called “Moon Lizards” since they come out in the evening.  They’re beneficial and eat insects.  They are not considered an invasive species due to their habits, small size, and because they do not really threaten the populations of native animals.  Their eyes have elliptical pupils and they have no lids.  I think she is a pretty little thing with her spots and striped tail.  I am also pretty sure we have another variant roaming around that appear nearly translucent and are much shorter.  I rescue them a lot when I open our door to the pond at night to feed the koi and they accidentally scamper in.  The cats just sit around waiting to pounce while my little one shrieks “DON’T KILL IT!!!” (as if I ever would).  Wow they’re fast!  I’m proud of this picture because I was actually able to get one that wasn’t blurry.  The American astronomer Carl Sagan once said:

“For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love.”

How vast their little world of river rocks by my fountain must be.  This one clearly knew me, probably because she sees me speaking with Rocky just about every day.  She paused a long time sort of studying me as I was her and I almost got to pat her.  For now I shall just remain content with saying, “Hello, Gecko.”