Meet two rare New Zealand skinks from Otago!

Could you spot the difference between a grand and Otago skink?
These rare skinks are native to Otago and have a conservation threat status of ‘nationally critically endangered’ - inhabiting just eight per cent of their former range. A few years ago, Auckland Zoo was part of a coordinated conservation breed for release programme for these skinks which were released at Mokomoko Sanctuary just outside Alexandra.
In this video ectotherms team leader Dave explains more about them, and what makes Aotearoa New Zealand’s lizards so fascinating!
This weekend - grab a copy of our field guide and see how many lizards you can identify at the Zoo! Alternatively, you can download a copy at home and test your knowledge with a friend or family member - fal.cn/3AI4A.

[@marnyfrancesca2526]

Love these little creatures, so fascinating!

[@Revrie8]

Adorable little fellas

[@R-compoundR-code]

Cute little skinks, just trying to stay warm like the rest of us

[@timeenuf4200]

So beautiful - both the skinks and the presenter. Thank you for sharing.

[@complimentary_voucher]

Just one more reason not to have cats as pets, because one cat can destroy an entire population in a very short time. Really wish reptiles got more attention and love, they're incredible and our lizards need so much help.