Burgan skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Burgan skink |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Oligosoma
|
| Species: |
burganae
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
The Burgan skink (Oligosoma burganae) is a small lizard found only in New Zealand. It is a special type of skink that is currently facing a high risk of disappearing forever. This means it is a "nationally endangered" species. Scientists first described this skink after finding one near the Burgan Stream. This stream is located in the Rock and Pillar Range in a place called Central Otago.
What Does the Burgan Skink Look Like?
The Burgan skink has a shiny, smooth brown body. Its belly is a yellowish-grey color. You might notice its ears have very few or no scales around the opening. Above its eyes, on the top of its head, it usually has three special scales called supraocular scales. The Burgan skink also has a head shape that is a bit rounder or "blunter" than other similar skinks in the Oligosoma family.
Where Do Burgan Skinks Live?
Burgan skinks prefer to live in high places. Their favorite homes are in the mountains, usually above 900 meters (about 3,000 feet) high. They like areas with lots of small plants, like herbs and shrubs. You can find them in the mountainous parts of the Rock and Pillar Ranges. They also live in the Lammermoor Ranges, both located in Central Otago.
Why Are Burgan Skinks Endangered?
The Burgan skink is considered "Nationally Endangered" in New Zealand. This means there are very few of them left in the wild. The Department of Conservation (DOC) keeps track of species like the Burgan skink. They use a special system called the New Zealand Threat Classification System.
In 2012, a search was done in the Lammermoor and Rock and Pillar Ranges. Sadly, no Burgan skinks were seen during that survey. However, since then, small numbers of these skinks have been found in a few spots within these areas. Protecting their homes and keeping them safe from threats is very important for their survival.
