Threats to striped skink
Predators
Stoats are a threat to striped skinks
Cats, mustelids, and rats pose a threat to all lizards. However, the striped skink's continued existence on the mainland may indicate that it can tolerate a low level of predation if sufficient habitat remains available.
Increasing mainland areas where predators are eradicated or controlled may improve these lizards' chances of survival.
Habitat depletion
The loss of indigenous lowland forest from the North Island has led to the local extinction of many lizard populations.
Habitat loss may be the main threat to striped skinks, especially as a result of agricultural development. When forests are cleared, remaining rotting logs are eventually removed or disintegrate. There is usually a limited amount of habitat available on farmland, so skink populations tend to be small and isolated. Therefore they are vulnerable to local extinction.
Contacts
DOC HOTline - 24 hour emergency number
Phone 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468) to report:
Sick or injured wildlife
Whale or dolphin strandings