Catapulting Caterpillars and Leaping Lizards

On a fine Saturday morning we left for the Blue Mountains. We headed for Mount Tomah Botanical Gardens. Mount Tomah was originally named Fern Tree Hill and is 1km above sea level.
From http://www.bluemts.com.au/MountTomah/frame.asp?firstPage=fastfacts.htm ;
"The reaching of the high points of the northern Blue Mountains revealed that they were capped with basalt, the remains of lava flows of about 18 and 14 million years ago. On Mount Tomah and elsewhere these have given rise to deep, well-drained soils, a striking contrast to what is found in other parts of the Blue Mountains. These soils carry a tall eucalypt forest with an understory of tree ferns which, on slopes favoured by their aspect, gives way to temperate rainforest. This rainforest is characterised by lianes, epiphytes and abundant ferns, including tree ferns. The aboriginal word `tomah' reputedly means 'tree fern' and the aptness of the name Mount Tomah remains apparent today, even though much of the area has been cleared. "

We witnessed wonderfully wicked wildlife. First was the moss that seemed to totally captivate Kris. Then the numerous large skink lizards, that slithered around the rocks at our feet.
While wandering through some leafy trees we found a catapillar resting peacefully on a tree leaf. After I took the photograph here the little beastie threw himself rather unceremoniously some 4 feet to the ground. Some protection mechanism no doubt, but it gave it us a start as it leapt towards us.
In the pools in around the park were carp of every shape size and colour, including one proper gold goldfish. the color of this fish can not be exagerated enough. It was gold and shiny, as if someone had painted it. Totally awesome.
It was a good day out and we recommend you visit if you get a chance.