Red-tailed Shiny Skink
Sigaloseps ruficauda
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Sigaloseps ruficauda faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in New Caledonia. Mining activities, particularly nickel extraction, have degraded critical forest habitats where this endemic skink occurs. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it highly vulnerable to any habitat modification, with invasive plant species further altering the understory structure of its native forest environment.
Habitat
This endemic New Caledonian skink inhabits humid forest environments, typically found in leaf litter and understory vegetation of primary and secondary forests. The species appears to prefer areas with dense ground cover and fallen logs that provide shelter and foraging opportunities.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in SCINCIDAE
Threatened in New Caledonia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Red-tailed Shiny Skink classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Red-tailed Shiny Skink live?
What are the main threats to Red-tailed Shiny Skink?
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