Tuatara

Sphenodon punctatus

Status
Rare. CITES Appendix 1

Population
Possibly exceeds 100,000

Threats
Introduced mammals, particularly rats. Programs for conserving endangered birds on these islands is also a problem. It has recently been recognised that there are two distinct species of Tuatara. Unfortunately, legislation does not acknowledge that Sphenodon is not a single species.

Conservation
Maintaining rat free habitats. Recognition that different species exist and need separate protection.

Size
Males upto 60cm; females upto 45cm

Weight
Males upto 1 kg; females 500g

Special features
A burrowing reptile, it has a life expectancy which is likely to exceed 100 years. It is the only surviving genus of a reptilian group flourishing in the Triassic period.

Return to the top of the page

File last modified Thursday, October 3, 1996