Otago Skink

Otago skinks are only found in very specific locations in Otago. Most are found in eastern Otago, between Macreas Flat and Sutton, usually up to 1,000 meters in elevation. There is also a smaller population in western Otago between Lake Hāwea and Lindis Pass. The combined range is nearly 860 mi2. Although the two populations are morphologically similar, there has been speculation as to whether they have undergone genetic divergence. A phylogeographic analysis found a separation in lineages but that gene flow was still occurring in neighboring locations, and suggested that the two regions be assessed and treated separately. Although individuals occasionally are found in the surrounding tussocks, the skinks are typically limited to the large schist rock outcroppings found in that region. They can often be seen sunning themselves on these rocks to regulate body temperature and seek refuge in the deep crevices when alarmed, at night and on cold days. An estimate from 2001 found that the range of the Otago skink had decreased by roughly 90% over the last 100 years, presumably driven by land use changes, particularly the intensification of farming, and the introduction of mammalian predators.