Otago Skink

The Otago skink is a large, boldly blotched inhabitant of inland South Island schist country. A black ground colour carries large grey, olive, yellow or gold blotches; its tail is longer than its body and the soles are dark.

Separated western populations occur near Lindis Pass and Lake Hāwea, while eastern populations survive around Macraes Flat and Middlemarch. It basks on schist and eats beetles, flies and native Coprosma and Leucopogon fruit; females bear two to four young in late summer.

Otago skink is Threatened — Nationally Increasing (NZ Threat Classification); predator fencing, trapping, captive breeding and translocation protect remnant populations. Managed sites in inland Otago offer the best chance, subject to sanctuary access arrangements.