McDonald's London: Gecko found climbing bins outside Finchley restaurant

A leopard gecko was found climbing a bin outside a McDonald's in north London.

A member of the public spotted the creature in North Finchley High Road at lunchtime on March 7.

They managed to place him in a box and called the RSPCA for advice. They were asked to take the gecko home and keep him warm until the charity could pick it up.

Named 'Bin Lizzy' by RSPCA staff, the lizard was transferred to a private facility specialising in exotic animals.

Animal rescue officer Lee Ricketts, collected the gecko later that day, said: “My first instinct was to go and check the bin to make sure the lizard had not been obviously abandoned, as there may have been a box with others inside the bin. After a search, nothing was found, so I collected the gecko from their house around the corner.

“He was very tame and appeared healthy, if not a little overweight. It's hard to tell if it's been abandoned by the bins or if it was an escaped pet as it was an unusually warm sunny day."

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Lee continued: “He was very lucky to be contained and collected so quickly almost certainly wouldn't have made it through the night due to the cold.

“If anyone has lost a leopard gecko or knows who he may belong to, please call our inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018 quoting incident number 01232428.”

Leopard geckos, like other reptiles, have specific needs including controlled temperature, lighting and humidity and specific dietary requirements. The RSPCA urges people to properly research what is required in the care of their pet before taking them on.

Lee added: “We are finding that many people are unaware of how much of a commitment these animals are when they take them on, which we believe may be why we are rescuing hundreds of reptiles every year.. 

“Reptiles may look resilient and tough on the outside but they are actually completely reliant on their owners to provide the correct environment for the species, including heating and lighting, and an appropriate diet - which are essential to keep them healthy and allow them to carry out their natural behaviour. 

“Without proper care they can suffer from serious diseases and, in severe cases or if left untreated, they can die. It is not always easy for an owner to tell when they are ill, fearful or suffering and by the time they are taken to a vet, if at all, it can be too late.”

Anyone who would like further information on how to care for leopard geckos should visit the RSPCA's website.