For those who do not possess Loveridge's book on African Gecko's I thought
the following would provide a unique insight as to how the people in N.
Africa feel about Tarentola annularis:
(BTW several Africans refer to this species as the "Dab")
"If the 'Dab' is seen near a vessel of water, the water is thrown out for
the Dab's look at the fluid is sufficient to render if unfit for human
consumption. To drink the fluid at that point would be utter madness, as
the Dab's spittle is believed very poisonous. Salt should always be
covered as the gecko will urinate upon it, and anyone who uses the salt
will break out in a rash of brown and black spots like those to be found on
the gecko's back. When blister beetles caused an outbreak of blisters on
the necks of soldiers in the Khartoum garrison, it was concluded that the
blisters were caused by the Dab urinating upon their necks from the
ceiling. If the feet of a running gecko should touch a person's eyes, they
will become inflamed; if the skin is involved it will blister and burn -
alternatively leprosy will result. And finally, should a pregnant woman so
much as set eyes on a 'Dab', her baby, when born, will be disfigured with
spots like those to be seen on the gecko."
So, if you ever go to North Africa, like I have, and expect the natives to
jump in and lend a hand in helping you find them...well, think again. A
lot of animals are perceived as being harbingers of evil. Four years ago,
I was in Morocco and chasing Agama bibroni (=Agama impalearis). The
natives who were with me were quite helpful in knowing where to find
virtually all species, for they were all shepherds (and these people become
quite bored during the day while tending their flocks, and kick over rocks
and look for other things that capture their interest), and were not scared
of anything...including Egyptian cobras and Cerastes. However, when I
captured some Agama's they all screamed "has this animal bitten you?". No.
"If you are bitten, you will surely die". "Your crazy" was my [obvious]
reply. An argument ensued, and finally I let the little demon bite me.
These people began to tremble and essentially cry for I was doomed and
soon my lifeless body would be their concern. This was eventually
dismissed as the animal had apparently "not injected me", or perhaps a
white skinned person has immunity to the lethal bite of the Agama. It
seems that no matter how you approach their angle, they have a reason why
the myth did not take place. I learned not to argue with them.
Jon
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