Falla's skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Falla's skink |
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Oligosoma
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fallai
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The Falla's skink or Three Kings skink (Oligosoma fallai) is a special type of lizard. It belongs to the skink family, which is a large group of lizards found all over the world. This particular skink was first described in 1955.
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What is Falla's Skink?
Falla's skink is a small to medium-sized lizard. Like all skinks, it has a smooth, shiny body and short legs. Skinks are known for being quick and can often be seen basking in the sun. This skink is named after a famous New Zealander.
Where Does Falla's Skink Live?
This amazing skink is found only in one special place: the Manawatāwhi / Three Kings Islands off the coast of New Zealand. When an animal or plant lives only in one specific area, it is called endemic. This means you won't find Falla's skink anywhere else in the world! The Three Kings Islands are a small group of islands, making this skink's home very unique and important to protect.
Why is it Called Falla's Skink?
The scientific name for this skink, fallai, was chosen to honor a famous New Zealander named Robert Falla. He was an ornithologist, which means he was a scientist who studied birds. Scientists often name new species after people who have contributed a lot to science or conservation.
Protecting Falla's Skink
Falla's skink is listed as "Vulnerable" (VU) by the IUCN. This means it faces a high risk of becoming extinct in the wild. Because it lives only on the Three Kings Islands, its population is small and sensitive to changes in its environment. Protecting its island home is very important to ensure these unique lizards can thrive for many years to come.
Images for kids
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Map showing the distribution of Falla's skink on the Three Kings Islands.
