The terror skink, Phoboscincus bocourti, is a rarely seen lizard endemic to the Île des Pins and its surrounding small islets in New Caledonia. This large reptile, also known as Bocourt’s terrific skink, carries an intimidating name that hints at its predatory nature. For over a century, its existence was known from a single specimen, contributing to its near-mythical status before its rediscovery in the late 20th century.
Physical Characteristics and Habitat
The terror skink is among the largest skinks globally, reaching a total length of approximately 50 centimeters, with its body from snout to vent measuring about 28 centimeters. It has a robust build and an imposing head. Its distinguishing dentition, composed of long, sharp, and curved teeth, gives it a fearsome appearance.
It inhabits the coastal humid forests off the coast of New Caledonia’s Île des Pins. The combined land area of these habitats is approximately 0.9 square kilometers. Its secretive behavior means it is rarely observed, often remaining hidden within its limited range.
Diet and Behavior
The terror skink is a formidable predator. A 2022 study revealed that its diet primarily consists of land crabs, particularly Geograpsus grayi. It uses its powerful jaws and large teeth to penetrate the tough exoskeletons of these crabs, an unusual dietary specialization for a skink. It also preys on other lizards, such as the New Caledonian giant gecko, cementing its role as an apex predator.
Its behavior is predominantly nocturnal. It maintains a highly secretive lifestyle, making it difficult for researchers to observe in its natural habitat. This elusive nature helps it avoid detection and ambush its prey effectively in the dense forest undergrowth.
Conservation Status and Threats
The terror skink has a precarious history; after its initial description in 1876 from a single specimen, it was largely presumed extinct for over a century. Its rediscovery in 1993 brought renewed attention to its existence, with additional individuals sighted in subsequent years. Despite these sightings, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed its conservation status as Critically Endangered.
The primary threats to the terror skink’s survival stem from invasive species introduced to its habitat. Predation by feral cats and black rats poses a significant danger to its already small and localized populations. These introduced predators can severely impact native wildlife, pushing vulnerable species like the terror skink closer to extinction. The limited geographic range also makes it susceptible to other localized disturbances, such as habitat loss from natural events like typhoons or wildfires.