New Zealand spotted skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spotted skink |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Oligosoma
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| Species: |
lineoocellatum
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The spotted skink (Oligosoma lineoocellatum) is a special type of skink that lives only in New Zealand. It is considered a nationally at-risk species, meaning its numbers are getting low and it needs protection.
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About the Spotted Skink
Spotted skinks are small lizards. They are part of a group of reptiles called skinks. Skinks are known for their smooth, shiny scales and often have short legs.
Where They Live
These skinks are found in several parts of New Zealand. You can find them in the Hawkes Bay, Wairarapa, and Wellington areas. They also live in Nelson, Marlborough, and Canterbury.
Some spotted skinks also live on smaller islands. These islands include Somes Island, Mākaro / Ward Island, North Brother Island, and Stephens Island. Living on islands can sometimes help protect them from dangers on the mainland.
What They Look Like
Spotted skinks get their name from the small spots or lines on their bodies. Adult males and females can look a bit different in size. Females can grow up to 111 millimeters long from their snout to the start of their tail. Males are usually a bit smaller than females.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Female spotted skinks usually give birth to live young. They do not lay eggs like some other reptiles. Each female typically has about 3 to 4 babies at a time. This helps new skinks join the population.
Why They Need Our Help
The spotted skink is listed as "nationally at risk." This means their population is shrinking. They face threats like losing their natural homes. They also face dangers from introduced animals like stoats, rats, and cats. These animals hunt the skinks.
Helping the Spotted Skink
People are working to help protect the spotted skink. One important effort happened in January 2016. A group of spotted skinks was released into Zealandia. This is a special protected nature reserve in Wellington. Zealandia is a safe place where native animals can live and thrive without many threats.
