Narrow-bodied skink facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Narrow-bodied skink
Conservation status
Data Deficient (IUCN 2.3)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Family:	Scincidae
Genus:	Oligosoma
Species:	O. gracilicorpus
Binomial name
Oligosoma gracilicorpus (Hardy, 1977)
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Synonyms
Leiolopisma gracilicorpus Hardy, 1977

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The Oligosoma gracilicorpus, also known as the narrow-bodied skink or narrow skink, is a very rare type of skink. Skinks are a kind of lizard that belong to the family called Scincidae. This particular skink is so rare that scientists only know about one single specimen ever found.

This unique specimen, called a holotype, was collected sometime before 1955. It was found on the North Island of New Zealand, likely near a place called Hokianga. Scientists think this specimen might be a young skink. Some people believe this skink could be the mysterious kawekaweau or kaweau (sometimes written koeau) from Māori stories. While others link the kawekaweau to a tuatara, the description doesn't quite match the tuatara.

About the Narrow-Bodied Skink

The narrow-bodied skink is a fascinating creature because so little is known about it. It's named for its slender body shape. Skinks are generally small to medium-sized lizards, and many of them live in New Zealand.

A Mysterious Discovery

The only known narrow-bodied skink specimen is kept at the Auckland Institute and Museum. It's a very important scientific sample. Because only one has ever been found, it makes this skink one of the most mysterious animals in New Zealand.

Its Home and Possible Lore

The single specimen was found on the North Island of New Zealand. This island is known for its diverse wildlife and unique ecosystems. The idea that this skink might be the legendary kawekaweau from Māori lore adds to its mystery. Māori legends often describe animals that are rarely seen or have special qualities.

Conservation Status

The narrow-bodied skink has a very concerning conservation status. The IUCN has classified it as "data deficient." This means there isn't enough information about the species to properly assess its risk of extinction.

However, the New Zealand Department of Conservation considers the narrow-bodied skink to be extinct. This is because no other specimens have been found since the first one, despite efforts to search for it. This highlights the importance of protecting all species, especially those we know little about.

Images for kids

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  This image shows the holotype of the chevron skink (Oligosoma homalonotum), which is a different species from the narrow-bodied skink. It is located in the Whanganui Regional Museum.