70% decline predicted for New Zealand's Canterbury Spotted Skink; predator-proof fences as short-term solution.

New Zealand's Canterbury Spotted Skink faces extinction, with a 70% decline predicted over the next 30 years. Misidentified populations in the Ō Tū Wharekai Ashburton Lakes basin and surrounding ranges have reduced the actual population. Main predators include mice, hedgehogs, weasels, rats, stoats, and cats. Predator-proof fences are seen as the best short-term solution to protect remaining populations while long-term strategies are developed.

April 17, 2024
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