A LOST pet lizard had an amazing escape after it was caught by a cat – and then taken alive to the feline’s owner as a present.
Jane Cheney found the Leopard Gecko in the hall of her home in Livingston,West Lothian, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The tiny reptile had been brought into the house by her cat Mufasa and was found by Ms Cheney when she got up after she was unable to sleep.
She looked after the lizard until the Scottish SPCA was able to take it to a shelter.
The gecko, who has been named Charlie, is now being cared for by the charity while that try to track down its owner.
Ms Cheney said: “I got up in the night to make myself a cup of tea because I couldn’t sleep and that’s when I found the gecko in the hall. I couldn’t believe my eyes. The only way he could have gotten into the house is by Mufasa bringing him in.
“He hasn’t brought me any presents in ages. He’s a gentle giant so I’m not surprised he didn’t hurt the gecko.
“I’m a big animal lover so I popped Charlie into a basin with some water and put my heating on to warm him up until the Scottish SPCA officer arrived.”
Animal Rescue Officer Fiona Thorburn said, “This little gecko is slightly thin but otherwise in good condition and remarkably doesn’t have a scratch on him.
“He has dropped his tail, which is a defence mechanism lizards have which helps them escape from predators. He probably did this when Mufasa picked him up, but it will grow back in time.
“It’s likely Charlie has escaped from home, however, we can’t rule out the possibility that he has been abandoned. If he’s a stray then we’d love to reunite him with his owner. If no one comes forward to claim him then we’ll be looking to find him a loving new home with someone who has lizard experience.”
Anyone with information relating to Charlie, or wishing to rehome him, can call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
