Cyclodomorphus praealtus (Alpine She-oak Skink)

Common name: Alpine She-oak Skink. SVL: 130mm, Total Length 350mm.

Alpine She-oak Skink is one of eight she-oak species (Cyclodomorphus). She-oak skinks are in the Egernia Group of skinks. There are two she-oak skinks in the Canberra region.

Information on the Alpine She-oak Skink is sparse. Limited research suggests it has small numbers and a limited home range. Its diet is largely carnivorous, mostly consisting of small invertebrates, such as molluscs and insects, and occasionally small lizards and snakes, and potentially consumes a limited amount of plant material.

Listed as endangered in NSW and nationally. NSW & ACT Sensitive Species List.

Distribution: The Alpine She-oak Skink is endemic to NSW and Victoria, where it is restricted to sub-alpine and alpine grasslands. In NSW, it is highly restricted and has only been observed between Smiggins Holes and Kiandra. It shelters beneath litter, rocks, logs and other ground debris, and has been observed basking on grass tussocks. In 2010 David Hunter reported that a survey of likely habitat including bogs, woodlands and herbfields fail to find she-oak skinks. Its known locations are not connected (especially given its limited home range) and individual populations are fragmented by alpine resort buildings and/or groomed ski slopes, roads and tracks. Trampling by feral animals and invasive weeds are also considered a possible threat.