Sphenodon punctatus

(Gray, 1842)

Vernacular names
English : Tuatara
French : Sphénodon ponctué

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Rhynchocephalia
Family : Sphenodontidae
Notes : No subspecies known

Identification
A lizard-like living fossil reaching 61 cm in length for a weight of 1 kg, males being bigger than females. Large head, stout body, thick tail, spiny crest on back and sharp claws. Coloration from greenish brown to grey with pale spots.

Range and habitat
Endemic to New Zealand where it survives on the north-eastern part of the North Island and on 30 small islands in Bass Strait. Mostly found in coastal forests and areas with low scrubs.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix I
Status : Almost extinct on North and South Islands but reintroduced in sanctuaries. Species is legally protected but could be re-assessed as threatened.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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