It is slow patient work scanning the rocks. Wildlife Management student Sam Turner at work. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large

The team (from left) Carey Knox, Patrick Liddy and Amanda Salt review how they will cover all the rock outcrops where the skinks are likely to be. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large

Sasha Roselli surveys the deeply creviced schist outcrops. Grand and Otago skinks will retreat into the cracks for protection from both predators and temperature extremes. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large

Sam Turner has a grand skink in her sights. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large

Roselli and Knox discuss progress. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large

Lizards at large : Lizards at large

The team at the gate of MokoMoko Dryland Sanctuary after a job well done. Photo: Anna Yeoman : Lizards at large