Idea #676 – Observing the Margouillat, the Agame des Colons
The Gekkota, or geckos, are small lizard-type reptiles, found in many countries. This name comes from the Malay “Gekoq”, which is an onomatopoeia corresponding to the cry of an Indonesian gecko. In this family, we met the “Margouillat” or “Agame settlers”, says Agama agama. Visible in most of sub-Saharan Africa, it can often be seen in the heat of the day on rocks or walls. In the breeding season, males develop amazing colored markings: the head, neck and tail turn bright orange, and the body becomes dark blue. Outside the breeding season, the male is light brown. In some countries, these animals are considered sacred and bring good luck. In others, they are associated with spirits and bring bad luck. In Africa, some will tell you that they are highly toxic, that their mere contact with water or food will send you directly to their country. Fortunately, they are in fact totally harmless, ridding homes of pests and larvae.
Some Pictures
Where is it ?
Sénégambie
