Rare lizards unearthed at site
Rare lizards have been found living in Horowhenua during recent site investigations into a new state highway route.
Wildlands Consultants principal ecologist Trent Bell discovered ornate skinks during New Zealand Transport Authority Waka Kotahi’s site investigations to refine the alignment of the new highway.
During the work two skinks were found, one a mature male and the other a few weeks old.
In its May newsletter, Waka Kotahi said the work helped it to understand the corridor area and guide ongoing design work to avoid or manage potential impacts.
“If the route is unable to avoid skink habitat then we will search, salvage and relocate them to suitable closeby habitats. This process would take some time, is controlled by the Department of Conservation and can only be undertaken by authorised personnel,” it said.
“This process is relatively common and has been used successfully on a number of infrastructure projects.”
Ornate skinks are endemic to New Zealand and are a threatened species in gradual decline.
They were once widespread through much of the North Island and can be identified by the markings around their face with a white or yellow teardrop-edged with black below each eye.
“We would like to extend our thanks to all property owners who have allowed access to their land and properties to complete surveys such as this one. We appreciate the support for this important work.
“Please note all native lizards are protected under the Wildlife Act, and should not be captured, collected or deliberately disturbed without a permit issued by the Department of Conservation.”
A number of other surveys have been completed in the area, with more yet to begin, it said.
“Our bats, archaeological and heritage surveys are now all complete, while geotechnical, water and ecology (including lizards, birds and invertebrates) surveys have been under way since March and are ongoing.
“Other ongoing surveys include threatened flora, soil moisture tests, arborist and hydrogeology.
“Some attended measurements have been performed in the noise survey and will be ongoing over the new few months.”