The Awakōpaka skink, a Nationally Critical species from Fiordland, faced imminent threats from a predicted beech masting event in late 2023. This event risked triggering mouse population surges, which are deadly for such vulnerable species. In response, five skinks were urgently translocated to Auckland Zoo as part of a collaborative effort by the Zoo, Department of Conservation (DOC), and Ngāi Tahu to safeguard them from extinction aucklandzoo.co.nz.
Since their arrival, the skinks have been thriving in a specially designed climate-controlled facility at the Zoo that simulates their harsh alpine environment. In April 2024, a pregnant female gave birth to four tiny offspring, each weighing just 0.32–0.42 grams—about one-third the weight of a paperclip. While one has since passed, the remaining three are healthy and steadily growing Otago Daily Times Online News.
This urgent translocation highlights the critical importance of rapid response and advanced detection tools to protect species on the brink of extinction.
Learn more:
The Post – Skinks thriving in captivity after urgent rescue from Fiordland
Auckland Zoo – Emergency mahi underway for endemic skink on the brink
Otago Daily Times – Rare skinks born after mother relocated to zoo
Photos Auckland Zoo
