Wayanad Forest Survey - Key discoveries
67 species of reptiles and 59 species of amphibians were identified in the first herpetofaunal survey that concluded recently in the South Wayanad Forest Division in Kerala.
Of the 126 species identified, 48 amphibians and 21 reptiles are endemic to the Western Ghats.
The important amphibian species recorded during the survey include
Starry Night Frog, bearing a constellation of blue dots on its obsidian body.
Miniature Night Frog, the tiniest frog in the country.
Endangered species such as Malabar Torrent Toad and Red Stream Toad.
The Naked Dancing Frog, previously associated only with areas in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, was also sighted during the survey.
Species like the Wayanad Dravidogecko, Nilgiri Spiny Lizard, and the Nilgiri Forest Lizard added depth to the survey’s significance.
The presence of Shieldtail snake, predominantly from Wayanad, brought forth the region’s crucial role in global conservation discussions.
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