The precise distribution is unknown; currently it is only known from localities in the Te Paki region of Northland.

It closely resembles the copper skink, Oligosoma aeneum, and was considered to be a member of this species until recently when it was described as a new species using morphological, allozyme and DNA methods (Chapple et al. 2008).

O. levidensum is difficult to distinguish morphologically from O. aeneum, which is probably why it had not been recognised until recently.

The main distinguishing feature is the slighter overall body form of O. levidensum compared to O. aeneum.

[2] As of 2012 the Department of Conservation (DOC) classified the slight skink as Nationally Vulnerable under the New Zealand Threat Classification System.