The satanic leaf-tailed gecko camouflages as dead leaves and twigs to evade predators. Endemic to Madagascar, these gecko species' coloration varies according to the trees they live on. Spikes and ridges run along their heads, bodies, and legs. Their flattened tail looks exactly like a dead leaf.

In addition to its strange appearance, the animal likely gets its name from the blood-curdling scream it uses to deter attackers.