From the News: Chester Zoo Starts Breeding Program for the Critically Endangered Bermuda Skink

Chester Zoo Starts Breeding Program for the Critically Endangered Bermuda Skink

Most people have never heard of the Bermuda skink.  I hadn't until five minutes ago, and I certainly couldn't have told you if it was endangered or not, and if so, then why.  The authors mention the threat of invasive species to the skink's survival in the wild, and while they don't mention any corrective measures, I hope that they are initiating predator control campaigns. 

It's stories like this that make me proud of the profession.  People who care about (and for) animals working to save an obscure species from the other side of the world.  There's no reason for many people to care about the Bermuda skink.  It's not flashy or attention-grabbing like a tiger or an eagle - it certainly won't be bringing zoo visitors in droves.  No one stands to make money off of its continued existence.  Instead, zoos are working to save it simply because it exists, and it needs help.

Best of luck to Chester Zoo, Bermuda Zoo, and Bermuda Department of Conservation Services!