New Discoveries in Western Ghats Lizard Diversity

Recent biodiversity surveys in the Western Ghats have revealed findings about rare and endemic lizard species. For the first time, Beddome’s cat skink (Ristella beddomii) has been recorded in the Aralam and Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuaries. The survey also reconfirmed the presence of the critically endangered Kottiyoor Day Gecko (Cnemaspis kottiyoorensis), a species rediscovered after decades. These discoveries show the rich reptilian diversity and emphasise the importance of ongoing conservation efforts in this fragile ecosystem.

Survey Overview and Key Findings

The survey was conducted from 20 to 23 September, organised jointly by the Forest Department and the Malabar Awareness and Rescue Centre for Wildlife (MARC). It recorded six previously unreported agamid lizards, four skinks, and five geckos. The Kottiyoor Day Gecko was found in the Suryamudi forest area of Kottiyoor Sanctuary. This survey is the first to document Beddome’s cat skink in these sanctuaries.

Beddome’s Cat Skink – Species Profile

Beddome’s cat skink is a small reddish-brown lizard with retractile claws and bicarinate scales. It inhabits forested areas of the Western Ghats at altitudes between 400 and 1,300 metres. The species is rare and endemic to this region. Named after British naturalist Richard Henry Beddome, it has been little studied until now.

Kottiyoor Day Gecko – Conservation Status

The Kottiyoor Day Gecko is critically endangered and was first discovered in 2014 after a long period of absence in records. Its presence in the Kottiyoor Sanctuary confirms the sanctuary’s role as a habitat for rare reptiles. This gecko’s rediscovery stresses the need for habitat protection and continuous monitoring.

Importance of the Western Ghats Ecosystem

The Western Ghats are a global biodiversity hotspot with many endemic species. The findings from Aralam and Kottiyoor sanctuaries underline the region’s unique reptilian fauna. Protecting these habitats is vital for preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.

Capacity Building and Future Plans

The survey included training sessions for forest staff on lizard identification and survey techniques. Herpetologist Dr S.R. Ganesh and MARC secretary Dr Roshnath Ramesh led these workshops. Future surveys will focus on amphibians, including the endangered Kottiyoor tree frog, to broaden understanding of the region’s lesser-known fauna.