Canterbury Spotted Skink

The Canterbury spotted skink is a large speckled skink of eastern South Island dry country. Grey, brown or olive upperparts have pale eye-like spots and dark flecks; a long tail and spotted flanks distinguish it from smaller grass skinks.

It occurs in Canterbury and adjacent inland districts, using fragmented rocky and densely vegetated refuges. It basks near cover and eats invertebrates and fruit, retreating quickly among rocks or vegetation.

Canterbury spotted skink is Threatened — Nationally Endangered (NZ Threat Classification). Managed dryland reserves in Canterbury provide the best prospect, although it is local and wary.