In the heart of New Zealand's wild landscapes, a race is on to uncover and protect the country's elusive skinks before they vanish. This is a story where every tramper and nature lover might just play a crucial role.
It all began with Jo, who at the time was a dedicated Department of Conservation firefighter and co-owner of Ribbonwood Retreat, who stumbled upon a skink while battling a wildfire in the Okarito Pakihi forest. Acting quickly, he scooped it up and took it to the DOC office, hoping it could be saved with proper care. Unfortunately, the skink didn’t survive, but its preservation would prove invaluable.
Recently, Marieke Lettink, a member of DOC's Lizard Technical Advisory Group reached out to Jo to offer a fascinating update. Little did Jo know that he had actually stumbled across a new species of skink and fast forward to November 2020, when Rheanne Sullivan, a keen-eyed DOC biodiversity ranger, found another skink, affectionately named "Pakihi Pete." This wasn't just any skink; it was a piece of a larger puzzle that scientists were eager to solve.
By July 2021, DNA analysis confirmed that Pakihi Pete belonged to a new species, a thrilling revelation that added a new chapter to New Zealand's rich tapestry of wildlife. In February 2024, researchers, led by Geoff Patterson, embarked on an expedition to study these skinks, uncovering a small but significant population thriving in the pakihi and open forest habitats.
But the clock is ticking. As climate change threatens to alter these habitats and Zealand's Hidden Skinks - the urgency to understand and protect these skinks grows. With predators potentially moving into higher altitudes, the need for discovery is more pressing than ever.
The story of the Pakihi skink is a testament to the power of collaboration and the spirit of adventure. It's a call to action for all who wander through New Zealand's backcountry to keep their eyes peeled for these hidden gems. Every sighting, every report could be a step towards ensuring these unique creatures continue to thrive.
So, whether you're a tramper, a climber, or just someone who loves the great outdoors, remember: your next adventure could help save a species. Keep your camera ready, your GPS handy, and your discoveries discreet—because in the world of conservation, every little bit helps.
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