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 *
11003-76012 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 *
DSC_7694 Southern skink (Oligosoma notosaurus) adult amongst tangle fern. This skink is endemic to Stewart Island, and is separated from the South Island populations of the closely related Cryptic skink (Oligosoma inconspicuum) by Foveaux Strait. Port Pegasus, Stewart Island *