Robust Skink
Cyclodina alani
Distribution:
Offshore islands north-east of the North Island only.
Habitat:
It is found in low coastal forest, where it shelters in sea-bird burrows and under rocks, etc.
Diet:
Food is likely to be small insects and crustaceans. In the Zoo this skink is fed live insects and fruit puree
Gestation:
Have live young, around six at a time
Longevity:
Live around 30 years
Predators:
Introduced rats, including kiore
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable and rare
General:
Large (up to 60g) and very well camouflaged. This skink is a blotchy brown colour with a more yellow underside. There is a yellow and black 'teardrop' below each eye. The snout is blunt. The eyes are large. Overall the body is very stout with a short thick tail and short stumpy limbs. This lizard is nocturnal.
Please remember that all lizards are protected in New Zealand. You must have a permit to keep any of them, even one you find in your back yard or at the beach on holiday. Lizards are difficult to keep in circumstances where they are happy and healthy.