Have you ever found a lizard in your garden? Our very own Penny Jacks (Community Ranger) completed her Masters Degree studying the behaviour of rare skinks in Otago. She provides some tips about the lizards you’re likely to find in Dunedin and how you can help protect these fascinating reptiles.
Written by Penny Jacks
Do you have lizards living in your backyard?
When we think of native fauna of Aotearoa we often think of our endemic bird species. However, we also have a diverse range of lizards that were once widespread throughout the country. You might even have some of these scaled residents quietly living in your backyard!
Why are these lizards no longer widespread?
A combination of habitat loss and introduced mammals and birds have reduced lizard numbers throughout the country. In particular, rat and mouse incursions can decimate lizard populations. Being similarly sized, rodents can move within crevices and small spaces where lizards shelter, giving them nowhere to hide. Many other introduced species have taken a liking to them too, including: cats, hedgehogs, ferrets, stoats, weasels, starlings and chickens.
February 20, 2025
How to make a lizard-friendly backyard — City Sanctuary
maximios city
Have you ever found a lizard in your garden? Our very own Penny Jacks (Community Ranger) completed her Masters Degree studying the behaviour of rare skinks in Otago. She provides some tips about the lizards you’re likely to find in Dunedin and how you can help protect these fascinating reptiles.
Written by Penny Jacks
Do you have lizards living in your backyard?
When we think of native fauna of Aotearoa we often think of our endemic bird species. However, we also have a diverse range of lizards that were once widespread throughout the country. You might even have some of these scaled residents quietly living in your backyard!
Why are these lizards no longer widespread?
A combination of habitat loss and introduced mammals and birds have reduced lizard numbers throughout the country. In particular, rat and mouse incursions can decimate lizard populations. Being similarly sized, rodents can move within crevices and small spaces where lizards shelter, giving them nowhere to hide. Many other introduced species have taken a liking to them too, including: cats, hedgehogs, ferrets, stoats, weasels, starlings and chickens.