Elizabeth Freer
Well-known member
We encourage anyone with information to phone 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468 ) or the Christchurch DOC office +64 3 341 9100.
For media queries, contact:
Nicola Toki, DOC Threatened Species Ambassador
Mobile: +64 27 403 6107
Treating our native species in this way is the sort of activity that DOC takes seriously. The Department recently announced it is stepping up its compliance and law enforcement work throughout the country.
"DOC spokesperson Nicola Toki said staff were called to the gardens last Friday after two international tourists found the container in the bamboo area and handed it to staff.
"On closer inspection, 58 lizards were discovered in the small lunch container wrapped with duct tape.
"Only four were still alive and were now being looked after, Ms Toki said.
"The lizards were still being identified but were thought to include spotted McCann's lizards, southern grass skinks, Waitaha and jewelled geckos.
"All are fully protected and most are threatened or at risk.
"Ms Tiki said the lizards were found in horrific conditions and staff needed the public's help to find out who put them there."
Click: Dozens of protected lizards found dead | Radio New Zealand News
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