Originally described as a new species, Sphendon guntheri, in 1877 and then forgotten about. In 1989 the species name was resurrected, but by 2009 DNA studies had shown that the population was not distinct from the Common Tuatara Sphenodon punctatus.
This animal was photographed on Somes Island in Wellington Harbour where a wild population has been established.
They are easy to find - if you search for them. During the day they don't move much and when they're not moving they do tend to blend into the background. At night they're easier because they are moving around.
