It was the contrast with the brown of the ground and its head that caught my attention – but a shy lizard gave itself away when it moved. Its hole was close and yet it avoided darting down it, so I had time to get a quick picture before the lizard disappeared. http://blog.omanholiday.co.uk/blog/_archives/2008/6/24/3759935.html

The Dhahira region in the north-west of Oman was our destination as we wandered this way and that in an enjoyable hunt for places and people.

One of our discoveries, an attractive Tamarind (from the Arabic meaning Indian Date) in a forts courtyard is one of many of these trees planted in or around large old public buildings in days gone by. Hopefully on our next visit the fruit will be ready.