Step into the world of our robust skinks and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures
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 and 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.
Quick facts
Distribution:
Islands north-east of New Zealand's North Island
Habitat:
Low coastal forest
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable and rare