Grand skink
Image: Sabine Bernert | ©

Introduction

There are many different types of lizards in the world. In New Zealand we only have geckos and skinks.

New Zealand has 126 species of lizard and new species are still being discovered. We have geckos and skinks, and none are found anywhere else in the world. All native lizards are fully protected under the Wildlife Act 1953.

Mice, wasps, rats, mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels) and cats pose a threat to all lizards. You can help by creating areas on your property where mice and rats are controlled, there is thick native ground cover to protect lizards from predators, and there is a continuous supply of food, such as insects and spiders.

Detailed species information on the New Zealand Herpetological Society website.

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