shelters in east coast rock crevices

Size
Length: 8-10 cm
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Small insects, spiders, and nectar. Uses sticky tongue to catch prey in rocky and coastal environments.
Habitat
Rocky outcrops and coastal scrub in Otago and Canterbury. Prefers sheltered crevices with moderate humidity and good drainage.
Range
Otago and Canterbury. Widespread in rocky outcrops and coastal scrub across eastern South Island regions.
Endemism
Endemic
Main Threats
Predation by cats and rats. Habitat loss from coastal development. Low reproductive rate limits recovery from disturbance.
Population
Not Threatened. Widespread throughout Otago and Canterbury. Population stable in suitable rocky habitat and coastal scrub.
Conservation Status
Not Threatened
Rain falls on it constantly. Not because it needs it. But because it lives in wet forests where moisture never fully evaporates. Woodworthia "Otago/Canterbury" grows on rocky outcrops where water drains quickly. Its colouration is mottled brown, blending with rock surfaces. This cryptic appearance helps it avoid detection by predators. The species inhabits rocky outcrops and coastal scrub throughout Otago and Canterbury. It prefers sheltered crevices with moderate humidity, thriving where rainfall is consistent but drainage is good. Unlike northern geckos, it has rougher skin and a more robust build. Adults reach up to 10 centimetres in length, with large eyes providing excellent night vision. Widespread in rocky outcrops and coastal scrub. Diet consists primarily of small insects and spiders. The gecko uses its sticky tongue to catch prey with precision. It also consumes nectar from native flowers when available. This omnivorous diet allows it to survive in diverse habitats. Hunting occurs in leaf litter and low vegetation. Breeding occurs in spring and summer, with females giving birth to one or two live young. Young are fully formed and independent at birth. This strategy maximises survival chances in a predator-rich environment. They must fend for themselves immediately. Classified as Not Threatened, the Otago/Canterbury gecko remains widespread throughout its range. Populations are stable in suitable habitat. However predation by cats and rats remains the primary threat. Habitat loss from coastal development compounds pressure on remaining populations. Conservation efforts focus on predator control and protection of rocky outcrops. Each surviving juvenile represents a victory against overwhelming odds.