Robust skink facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Robust skink |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Oligosoma
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| Species: |
alani
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| Synonyms | |
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The robust skink, Oligosoma alani (formerly Cyclodina alani), is a large, rare species of lizard in the family Scincidae. The species is endemic to New Zealand.
Geographic range
O. alani was once widespread throughout the North Island but has been wiped out in most parts of its former range by predation from several species of introduced rats. It now occurs naturally only on six small islands off the north-eastern coast of the North Island.
Etymology
The specific epithet, alani, was given by the describer Joan Robb in honour of her nephew, Alan Robb.
Behaviour and habitat
The robust skink is strongly nocturnal and lives under rocks, or in seabird burrows, tree stumps, and fallen logs. It prefers well vegetated areas with plenty of leaf litter and tolerates coastal areas as long as there is dense vegetation cover. Studies of the robust skink show that it is unusually vulnerable to losing water through its skin, which may explain its preference for damp environments such as crevices, bird burrows, rotting logs, and closely matted vegetation.
Reproduction
O. alani is viviparous.
