The Southern Leaf-tailed Gecko grows to about 15cm in length - which is about the size of our friend in the photos here.

They are found in the greater Sydney area, and live in dark sandstone crevices and cluttered garages.

They drop their tail when threatened. The tail wriggles frantically and thus allows the gecko to slip away.

Although they regrow their tail, it is best to be gentle with them when found, as their tail-dropping is such an important defence ability.

However, they apparently have a third defence capability - and this is a squeal or bark.

The Australian Biological Resources Study lists nearly 80 species of gecko in Australia.

Allen Greer from the Australian Museum is preparing an Encyclopedia of Australian Reptiles. The chapter on Gekkonidae provides detailed information on biological and behavioural aspects of the Southern Leaf-tailed Gecko.

These photos were taken in Cheltenham in Sydney.