Common or northern grass skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Common skink |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Oligosoma
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| Species: |
polychroma
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The common skink (Oligosoma polychroma) is a small lizard found in New Zealand. Skinks are a type of lizard with smooth, shiny scales. They often have short legs and a long tail. This skink is native to New Zealand, meaning it naturally lives there.
Scientists once thought this skink was a type of Oligosoma nigriplantare. They called it a subspecies. But new information suggests it is a unique species of its own. This means it is different enough to be considered a separate kind of animal.
Where Common Skinks Live
Common skinks live all over New Zealand. You can find them from Stewart Island in the south. They also live up to the middle of the North Island. This shows they are very adaptable. They can live in many different places.
How We Protect Common Skinks
In 2012, the Department of Conservation looked at the common skink. This department helps protect animals in New Zealand. They decided the common skink was "Not Threatened." This means it is not in danger of disappearing. It has a healthy population. This classification helps us know which animals need more help.
