Oligosoma ornatum (Gray, 1843)

Size and Weight

Oligosoma ornatum, commonly called the ornate skink, reaches a maximum snout–vent length of 84 mm (3.3 in) and a maximum weight of 11.5 g (0.41 oz).

Head and Neck Markings

This species has a short snout, a teardrop-shaped marking beneath each eye, and black markings along its neck and shoulders.

Body Color and Patterning Variation

Individual ornate skinks vary in the shade of brown of their bodies and in their patterning.

Three Kings Islands Morphology

The population of ornate skinks living on Manawatāwhi / Three Kings Islands is morphologically distinct, with longer snouts, more slender bodies, and less contrasting underside surfaces.

Northland Region Morphology

Specimens from the Northland Region may also have more distinct patterns and markings.

Species Identification Features

Ornate skinks can be identified by the white or yellowish black-edged teardrop marking below each eye.

Size Relative to Similar Species

They are also relatively larger than other visually similar species, such as the copper skink.

Current North Island Distribution

Ornate skinks are widespread across the North Island of New Zealand, excluding the Hawkes Bay area.

Current Offshore Island Distribution

They can also be found on many offshore islands near the North Island, including Manawatāwhi / Three Kings Islands, Great Barrier Island, and Little Barrier Island.

Historical Distribution

This species was once widespread across most of the North Island and on many offshore islands in the Hauraki Gulf and north of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Current Reduced Range Factors

Habitat destruction and predation by introduced species have now reduced its range to scattered localities across the North Island as far south as Wellington, alongside populations on the Three Kings Islands, Great Barrier Island, and a small number of other offshore islands.