Driving through the quiet backroads of rural New South Wales, Australia, wildlife specialist Mick Fullerton suddenly spotted something unusual. In the middle of the asphalt sat a small, dark figure — unmoving, exposed, and in clear danger of being struck by an oncoming car.

Instead of swerving past, Mick pulled over. His instincts as a wildlife rescuer told him this little creature needed help.

An “Angry” Roadblock

As he walked closer, Mick realized the animal was an eastern shingleback skink, a native Australian lizard with a chunky body and a distinct, large head. Though fascinating to see up close, the skink didn’t seem too happy about the encounter.

She hissed loudly, puffed herself up, and flashed her big, blue tongue — a natural defense mechanism to scare off predators.

But Mick wasn’t deterred.

“You can’t stay here,” he gently told the lizard. “There’s cars on this road.”

A Quick Rescue

Carefully, Mick guided the stubborn skink to safety on the roadside, away from the traffic. At first, she remained tense and defensive, but once she realized Mick meant no harm, her demeanor began to soften.

In fact, she allowed him to give her a couple of gentle head scratches, as if acknowledging his kindness.

“Aw, what a little legend,” Mick said with a smile.

From Danger to Friendship

What could have ended in tragedy turned into a heartwarming roadside friendship. The skink had been saved from a dangerous situation — and Mick got to share a brief but special moment with one of Australia’s most iconic reptiles.

For him, it was another reminder of why slowing down and caring for the creatures we share the planet with is always worth it.

✨ Sometimes, the animals we meet in passing — even the ones that look “angry” at first — just need a little help to find their way. Mick gave this skink a second chance, and in return, he walked away with an unexpected new friend.