Distribution, status and conservation measures for lizards in limestone areas of South Canterbury, New Zealand

Abstract

The limestone outcrops of South Canterbury are outstanding landscape features, and many contain remnant native flora and fauna. Three skink species and four gecko species have been found there in subfossil remains. In 2008 the limestone habitats were surveyed to find which lizard species were present and to index their abundance, based on visual observation, artificial cover objects, pitfall traps, and searches of retreat sites. Common skinks (Oligosoma polychroma), McCann's skinks (O. maccanni) and Southern Alps geckos (Hoplodactylus ‘Southern Alps’) were found. Though the jewelled gecko (Naultinus gemmeus) was not found in limestone areas, three small populations were located elsewhere in South Canterbury. The species with the widest distribution and the highest number of sightings was the Southern Alps gecko. The two skink species were not observed living sympatrically. Both were found in low numbers in isolated pockets of suitable habitat. Conservation measures that might benefit these native lizards include reduced grazing as well as retention or addition of rock piles.

Keywords:

• limestone habitat
• reptile
• Oligosoma polychroma
• Oligosoma maccanni
• Hoplodactylus ‘Southern Alps’
• conservation

Acknowledgements

The project has been possible through a Teacher Fellowship (HF) from the Royal Society of New Zealand. The field work was undertaken with permission of the Department of Conservation (Ref. NHS12-03). Thanks go to Philip Howe and the South Canterbury Museum for hosting the project and providing ongoing support. Marieke Lettink has always been willing to give advice and guidance. She also made helpful comments on the manuscript, as did Jo Hoare, Christine Bezar and an anonymous reviewer. Rod Hitchmough, John Talbot, Val Clemens, James Reardon and Carey Knox have given permission to include personal comments. Trent Bell contributed ideas at the start of the project, and Rod Hitchmough, Geoff Paterson, Tony Whitaker and Tony Jewell helped with identification and other issues. Steve Caswell from Timaru District Council drew the maps. Fraser Ross and a number of students helped with parts of the fieldwork. Additional funding was provided by Forest & Bird South Canterbury and the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology. Most importantly, we thank the many landowners who granted access to their properties.