Rare Ornate skink discovery in southern Hawke's Bay extends creature's known range

The native Ornate skink was has been discovered in southern Hawke's Bay. Photo/Supplied

The discovery of a rare native skink in southern Hawke's Bay has extended the creature's known range.

Earlier this year a Horizons Regional Council (HRC) biodiversity advisor spotted an Ornate skink at a sheep and beef farm east of Dannevirke.

The Ornate skink is widespread throughout the North Island and on some offshore islands but there had previously been a gap in Hawke's Bay where it appeared to be absent.

HRC environmental management officer Ruth Fleeson said this finding in mid-January has narrowed the gap.

"There may be more but they are hard to find."

The mainland population of the Ornate skink is declining due to habitat loss, predators and disturbance, she said.

Most native skink and gecko species are in decline on the mainland for the same reasons.

"The full extent of the current mainland population is unknown.

"However, there are Ornate skink populations on offshore islands which ensures they won't disappear completely."

Anyone wanting to help protect the native creature could join or form community groups to adopt a reserve in which the skinks can be looked after.

"It's amazing how quickly wildlife returns once it has a safe refuge," Ms Fleeson said.

"On a large scale, we need to reduce predators such as cats, stoats, hedgehogs and rats.

"Unleashed dogs can also kill lizards and other vulnerable wildlife."

Restoring and creating areas of native bush are two things that can also be done to reduce habitat destruction and disturbances, and protect native animals and plants.

Anyone who finds an Ornate skink should try to get a good photo without disturbing it.

"Don't let your dog or cat anywhere near it."

Any skink or gecko finds can be reported to the Department of Conservation here:

Report a reptile or frog sighting

Ornate skinks can be identified by markings around their face with a white
or yellowish teardrop edged with black below each eye.

The toes of Ornate skinks are shorter than other skinks.

The creatures inhabit forest or open areas with deep leaf litter, rock piles or vegetation and prefer damp, humid conditions.