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science1h ago
Nursing a skink: endangered alpine lizard numbers set to rise after Omeo falls pregnant in Victoria
- Zoos Victoria released 11 captive-bred guthega skinks into a field enclosure in Victoria's Alpine National Park, aiming to boost local population.
- Omeo, a female skink, is expected to birth in March, potentially increasing the cohort to 13.
- The release supports genetic diversity by mixing origin in the captive-bred cohort from Victorian and NSW colonies.
- Guthega skinks live in alpine burrows and hibernate for about five months, relying on high-country refuges during climate shifts.
- Conservation specialist Zak Atkins notes the alpine zone is retreating with warming climate, reducing habitat options for skinks.
- The project includes a designed enclosure with rocks and plants like alpine mint bush to mimic natural conditions.
- Scientists emphasize protecting habitats and cutting emissions are essential to shield alpine species from climate impacts.
- Experts describe guthega skinks as forming family groups with shared burrows and long lifespans.
- Australia’s alpine skinks are among few of their kind, making captive breeding crucial for conservation.
- The program follows a broader effort to conserve wildlife amid climate-linked threats and bushfire risks.
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