Wildlifeof New Zealand
Moko Skink
Skinks
Photo: Oscar Dove · CC BY 4.0
Oligosoma moco
Basic stats
Habitat
Northern coastal dunes, grassland and rocky islands
Range
Northern North Island coasts and islands
Size
Snout–vent length up to about 80 mm
The moko skink is a slender, fast coastal skink now strongest on northern offshore islands. A brown back with clean pale stripes, dark flanks and a very long tail gives it a streamlined appearance.
It occurs on northern North Island coasts and many Hauraki Gulf and Northland islands, with mainland populations much reduced. It basks and forages rapidly by day for small invertebrates and fruit among low coastal plants.
Moko skink is At Risk — Uncommon (NZ Threat Classification). Predator-free northern islands with open coastal vegetation offer the best chance.
Quick answers
- What habitat does the Moko Skink live in?
- Northern coastal dunes, grassland and rocky islands
- Where is the Moko Skink found?
- Northern North Island coasts and islands
- How big is the Moko Skink?
- Snout–vent length up to about 80 mm