Camouflage 102

When we think of camouflage, we often think of people wearing military style fatigue hiding in the woods. To hide in plain sight, one has to blend in with the background. There is however a method to do so without any special or time consuming activities.

Covert operatives and animals do it all the time. No idea? 

Hiding in the shadow. As human beings can only see visible light, we have a more difficult time seeing in darkness. If there is no darkness, the next best thing is to be in the shade. See the gecko on the underside of the railing. Notice that it is not very distinct. There was a second gecko nearer the top but it scurried away when I was taking a picture. It would have provided perfect contrast to the gecko in the shadow. It is quite possible that the gecko in the shadow is aware of its hiding place in the shade which is why it was keeping still even when I was next to it. 

Look away, Baby, look away.....

Not convinced? No problem. The next example will show the contrast. The lizard below is also trying the same stunt. However, its tail is in the light which is very clear. The rest of the body is in the shade which makes it a little indistinct.

Don't look at me.....

In fact, the reason that I spotted both lizards was that I noticed movement. The first gecko position was exposed when it's buddy gecko broke cover. At that point, I focused on the area and spotted it. The lizard was sunning itself when it noticed my presence and move into the shade. 

"All secrets are deep. All secrets become dark. That's in the nature of secrets." Cory Doctorow