DSC_3652 Cryptic skink (Oligosoma inconspicuum) named for its morphological similarity to several closely-related species, as well as its cryptic behaviour. Adult in muehlenbekia. Cape Saunders, Otago Peninsula *
DSC_1140 Rockhopper skink (Oligosoma 'rockhopper' ) as its name suggests this is very active and agile skink in the warm sun. Mid-brown in colour with elegant thin, smooth edged stripes along dorsal edge. Lives along margins of alpine screes, and especially among rocks with Dracophyllum pronum. Hawkdun Range *
11003-76010 Mahogany skink (Oligosoma aff. inconspicuum 'mahogany') this image is of the first individual captured in 2004 by Trent Bell. These 'cryptic' skinks displayed ‘anti-cryptic’ characteristics, including small size and dark coloration which are both probably adaptations to extreme altitude, and to cold wet local conditions. Sinbad Gully, Fiordland *
