Nebulifera robusta
Description
The Robust Velvet Gecko (Nebulifera robusta) are found along the mid-eastern coastline of Australia and are commonly found in the outer Brisbane suburbs. There is even a large colony living on the Kangaroo Point cliffs. This species of gecko can grow to a total length of 18cm and inhabits places like rocky outcrops, under the bark of eucalypt trees and even lives within households.
Their colour may vary but typically they are a grey to dark brown lizard with pale blotches along their backs and a fat leaf-shaped tail.
Robust velvet geckoes feed at night (nocturnal) on insects and other invertebrates within a close distance from their daytime hidey hole.
These geckoes can sometimes be heard fighting vigorously and this may be accompanied by loud squeaking.
Adaptations
- Fingers and toes have a distinct, expanded pad at the tips for climbing on any surface including glass
- Lays clutches of 2 parchment-shelled eggs
- Geckoes can ‘throw’ their tail if threatened, and regrow a new tail over time
- Geckoes are territorial and will fight with other geckoes to retain their hunting area
Feeding relationships
- What I eat: insects and other invertebrates, sometimes sap and nectar
- What eats me: Tawny frogmouth, owls, Green Tree Snakes and some large spiders
Interesting facts
If caught this gecko will sometimes bite its' aggressor, although the bite is only feeble and never draws blood. Geckoes also have no eyelids, so they use their tongues to keep their eyes clean.