dendrobatidis). All frogs are returned to their exact capture location before dawn. Staff hours 2013/14
Staff hours to date
No. of staff 2013/14
No. of staff to date
120
544
3
8
Project longevity Began 2011 on-going
AZCF project? No
19. Grand skink and Otago skink protection Location: Western and central Otago
Partner Organisations: Department of Conservation, Landowners, Central Otago Ecological Trust, Queenstown Kiwi & Birdlife Park, Orokonui Eco sanctuary, Wellington Zoo, Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust
Project Objective: To prevent the extinction of the western forms of grand skink (Oligosoma grande) and Otago skink through a comprehensive programme of predator control, ex situ management and reintroduction at protected sites. Project Description:
Staff hours 2013/14
Staff hours to date
296
296
Unique western populations of grand (Oligosoma grande) and Otago skinks (Oligosoma otagense) are entirely unprotected and in serious danger of extinction. A network of traps through the Glenfoyle valley was established to slow the decline of Otago skinks at this site and an ambitious programme of skink ‘rescue’ from this and a number of other sites established a comprehensive ex situ management programme across several institutions including Auckland Zoo. Two secure sites for release of captive skinks are being identified. One is well advanced – a 16 hectare site near Alexander, which will be fenced with excluder predator-proof fencing courtesy of the central Otago Ecological Trust. The first lizards will be released here during 2014 and 2015. The trap network at Glenfoyle is checked monthly from October to May (dependant on weather) by Department of Conservation staff, Queenstown Kiwi & Birdlife Park staff and local volunteers. This will continue to be so for several years and there is scope to expand this trapping to other sites. No. of staff No. of staff Project AZCF 2013/14 to date longevity project? 4
4
Potential 5+ year. TBD.
Yes Category 1 105