Alpine skinks are some of the coolest yet most at risk species in the snowy mountains, but a new film screening in Jindabyne next week hopes to change all that and carve out some love for these slithery species.
Bec Byrne, Threatened Species Officer with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment says the 'Stoked on Skinks' community event will showcase these species on the big screen and include a Q&A session with leading skink experts.
"There are 4 special skinks that barely anyone sees, despite living in one of NSW's most popular areas for hikers, skiers and mountain-bike riders," Ms Byrne said.
"The Guthega skink, alpine she-oak skink, mountain skink and alpine bog skink are the 'coldest of the cold-blooded', found only at high altitudes in Australia's alpine regions and nowhere else on Earth.
"We are hosting this event so locals and visitors can learn more about how to recognise these reptiles, and the simple steps they can take to help protect their habitat.
"The team working on this pretty unique project are truly stoked on skinks and we can wait to promote conservation efforts for these chill little reptiles," Ms Byrne said.
The free 'Stoked on Skinks' community event and film screening will be held:
Wednesday 7 June 2023
4.30 – 6.30 pm
NPWS Kosciuszko Visitor's Centre, 49 Kosciuszko Road Jindabyne NSW 2627
To register, go to EventBrite
Everyone who attends goes into the draw to win a snowboard plus lucky door prizes!
The 'Stoked on Skinks' campaign is a collaboration between NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Saving our Species (SoS) and the Victorian Government, with support from the Australian Government.
