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.
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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86.2% Yes
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11.5% No
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2.3% Other - I'll share below
Today's Riddle: Guaranteed Brain Stretch!
What bird is the strongest of them all?
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Farmers Santa Parade
🎅 The magic is back! The Farmers Santa Parade returns to Auckland on Sunday, 24 November – and this year, Bluey is joining the fun! 💙 Bring the whānau along for a festive day filled with holiday cheer, colourful floats, and beloved characters. 🎄✨