Endangered skinks nurtured at Auckland Zoo
Two threatened skink species are thriving at Auckland Zoo.
The cobble and Kapitia species were rescued by the Department of Conservation before separate cyclones hit their homes in the wild.
Zoo staff have managed to grow the cobble skinks' population from 36 to 55 animals.
They have been caring for a quarter of the entire population of Kapitia or Chesterfield skinks to guard against their extinction, zoo staff say.
From 50 animals collected, 11 Chesterfield lizards have been born this year.
Auckland Zoo is working with the Department of Conservation to plan the next stage of the recovery for both species.
Ectotherm keeper Sarah weighs and measures the skinks to check on their growth.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.4% Yes
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14.1% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Riddle Me This: Can You Out-Smart Yesterday’s Champ?
How can the number four be half of five?
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