
Photo: Carey-Knox-Southern-Scales · CC0
Oligosoma kahurangi
Habitat
Alpine and subalpine terrain
Range
Kahurangi National Park
Size
Snout–vent length up to 76 mm; tail much longer than body
The Kahurangi skink is a recently described, exceptionally long-tailed skink from the Tasman region. It is mid- to dark brown with a thin dark vertebral line, paired pale side stripes and a broad brown lateral band.
Known populations lie in remote parts of Kahurangi National Park in the north-western South Island. Ecological information is limited, reflecting the remoteness and recent recognition of the species.
Kahurangi skink is Threatened — Nationally Vulnerable (NZ Threat Classification). The remote alpine range and rarity make public sightings unlikely.