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.
House washer
Any recommendations for a house washer, looking for someone to wash my house and carport and sleep out
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.8% Yes
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22.8% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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.
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