“Gustav” is looking for space – Gekko from Madagascar arrived in a flower pot

Mother’s Day sales were in full swing at a flower shop in Oberwart, Burgenland, when an observant employee made a strange discovery: a green mini-dragon with red stripes and polka dots was “stuck” on a decorative desk. The woman carefully hoisted the animal into a glass container and dialed the number of Styrian reptile and amphibian expert Werner Stangl. “I asked her if the store had recently received a delivery from Madagascar, thousands of miles away,” says Werner Stangl. “Yes, Bromeliads for Mother’s Day. How do you know?” replied the astonished woman.

hidden in flowers
The explanation is – for an expert like Stangl – obvious: only Madagascar geckos occur with this special coloring. The little lizard probably liked the bromeliads and made himself comfortable among the fragrant flowers – then traveled from Madagascar to Oberwart. When the woman then sent a photo to the professional, his suspicion was confirmed. Stangl immediately drove off towards Burgenland and picked up the sweet animal. And was amazed at the general condition: “It survived the journey perfectly, it is a real bundle of joy.”

“Gustav” is looking for a place
However, the animal – now christened “Gustav” – can no longer return to its homeland. That’s why the three-year-old gecko, who likes yogurt, honey and sweet fruits and loves to cuddle, is now looking for a loving place. Perhaps a belated Mother’s Day gift for lizard lovers? For serious inquiries please contact Werner Stangl on 0664 2801 224.