Discover the small-scaled skink (<i>Oligosoma microlepis</i>), a resilient insectivore native to New Zealand's temperate forests, characterized by its distinctive olive green to brown color and small, smooth scales. This fascinating skink plays a vital role in maintaining insect populations and thrives in humid environments under leaf litter and rocks.
Tag: biodiversity in New Zealand
Oligosoma kakerakau
The Kakerakau skink (Oligosoma kakerakau) is a medium-sized lizard native to New Zealand, characterized by its vibrant greenish-brown coloration, diurnal behavior, and insectivorous diet. This vulnerable species thrives in humid temperate forests and coastal regions, playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of its habitat.
Oligosoma hoparatea
The Oligosoma hoparatea, or Hoparate Skink, is a small, diurnal reptile found in the warm, temperate forests and savannas of New Zealand, known for its rich brown and green coloration, and its unique ability to regenerate its tail. This vulnerable species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations and contributing to soil health.
Oligosoma homalonotum
The Southern Skink (Oligosoma homalonotum) is a diurnal, insectivorous reptile native to New Zealand's temperate forests and coastal regions, averaging 10 to 20 cm in length with smooth, glossy skin and earthy coloration. It plays a vital role in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations and serves as a prey species for larger predators.
Oligosoma grande
Discover the <b>Oligosoma grande</b>, a striking skink native to New Zealand's temperate forests and coastal regions, measuring 15 to 20 cm with a streamlined body and unique coloration that aids in camouflage. This diurnal creature plays a vital role in its ecosystem as an insectivore, while its fascinating social behaviors and reproductive cycles highlight its adaptability and importance in maintaining biodiversity.
Oligosoma burganae
Discover the fascinating Oligosoma burganae, a diurnal skink native to New Zealand, known for its distinctive dark brown and tan patterns, elongated body reaching 10-15 cm, and its vital role in controlling insect populations while thriving in temperate forests and shrublands. This species exhibits viviparity, giving birth to 4-7 live young after a gestation of 60 to 70 days, making it a remarkable example of New Zealand's rich biodiversity.
Oligosoma chloronoton
Discover the captivating Oligosoma chloronoton, or green skink, native to New Zealand's temperate forests and shrublands. This vibrant, diurnal lizard, reaching up to 15 cm in length, plays a crucial role in pest control while displaying remarkable adaptations, such as tail regeneration and communal basking behaviors.
Naultinus manukanus
<b>Naultinus manukanus</b>, also known as the Manuka skink, is a vibrant, arboreal lizard endemic to New Zealand's North Island, thriving in temperate forests and coastal bushlands. With a distinctive coloration that aids in camouflage, these diurnal skinks primarily feed on insects and play a crucial role in their ecosystem.
Hoplodactylus duvaucelii
Discover the Duvaucel's gecko (Hoplodactylus duvaucelii), a vulnerable species native to New Zealand's lush rainforests, characterized by its robust body, impressive climbing abilities, and essential role in controlling insect populations. This nocturnal predator showcases fascinating mating behaviors and remarkable adaptability, including the ability to regenerate its tail.