Geckos

I didn't realize that I would be getting some new pets when I volunteered to work in Vietnam, but, lo and behold, I have a whole assortment of little friends wandering my ceiling and walls. Geckos are everywhere in Vietnam; virtually every room in this country seems to have at least one gecko on it somewhere. They're cute little guys, and for the most part they're are useful. They eat bugs, which are also everywhere in Vietnam. Geckos seem to be somewhat territorial. They stay hidden for the most part in the day, but I think the same ones come out every night. I can identify a few of them through distinctive markings. One gecko is missing part of his tail (I call him Stumpy).

Geckos are not all good, though. They leave little presents for me in my bathroom, where they usually hang out. In fact, one particular corner in my shower is saturated with droppings, a virtual gecko litter box. Geckos aren't quite as loyal or cuddly as my dog Niles back home, but it is kind of nice to have someone (or somethings) to come home to, even if they crap all over my bathroom.