Robust Skink

The robust skink is one of New Zealand’s heaviest skinks and now survives chiefly on predator-free northern islands. It has a massive head and body, brown marbled upperparts and a pale belly; adults dwarf copper, moko and shore skinks.

Natural and restored populations occur on islands off northern New Zealand, including the Mercury and Hauraki Gulf groups. Mostly nocturnal, it eats large invertebrates, fruit, carrion and food associated with seabird colonies.

Robust skink is At Risk — Recovering (NZ Threat Classification); eradication of introduced mammals and translocations have rebuilt populations. Most strongholds are protected islands with controlled access, so sightings are uncommon for general visitors.