****Australia discovers rarest skink Kungaka with <20 left [developing] [developing] [developing] [developing] [developing] [developing]** [developing]** [developing]
Key Questions
What is the Kungaka skink?
Kungaka (Liopholis mutawintji, meaning 'Hidden One') is a newly identified ancient skink species discovered in Mutawintji National Park, New South Wales, Australia.
How many Kungaka skinks remain in the wild?
Fewer than 20 individuals have been found, making it one of Australia's rarest reptiles.
What threats face the Kungaka skink?
Feral goats, cats, foxes, and climate change pose major threats to the small remaining population.
How was the Kungaka skink discovered?
It was identified through collaboration with Wiimpatja Aboriginal Owners, unlocking 25 years of monitoring data in a hidden ancient lineage.
What conservation efforts are underway for similar rare skinks?
In New Zealand, Alborn skinks (around 30 left) are being rescued through predator eradication and zoo breeding programs, similar to plans for Kungaka.
Newly identified ancient skink Liopholis mutawintji (Kungaka, 'Hidden One') in NSW Mutawintji NP, fewer than 20 individuals amid feral goats/cats/foxes/climate threats; Wiimpatja Aboriginal collab unlocks 25-year monitoring for cons; NZ Alborn skinks (30 left) rescued via predator eradication and zoo breeding.