Arnhem Land Gorges skink facts for kids
The Arnhem Land Gorges skink (Bellatorias obiri) is a type of lizard known as a skink. It belongs to the scientific family called Scincidae. This special skink lives only in Arnhem Land, a region in the Northern Territory of Australia.
Quick facts for kids Arnhem Land Gorges skink |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Bellatorias
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| Species: |
obiri
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| Synonyms | |
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Egernia arnhemensis Sadlier, 1990 |
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About the Arnhem Land Gorges Skink
The Arnhem Land Gorges skink is a unique lizard found only in a specific part of Australia. It is a skink, which means it's a type of lizard often recognized by its smooth, shiny scales and usually small legs.
Where it Lives
This skink is native to Arnhem Land. This area is located in the top part of Australia, in the Northern Territory. It's a place known for its rugged landscapes, including gorges and rocky areas.
How it Was Discovered
Scientists first noticed this skink was special a long time ago.
- In 1974, a scientist named Harold Cogger thought it was a distinct type of skink.
- Later, in 1985, two Australian reptile experts, Richard W. Wells and C. Ross Wellington, officially described it.
- They studied a skink specimen that had been collected in 1975 near a place called Oenpelli.
- This specimen was kept at the Northern Territory Museum in Darwin.
