Distribution and abundance of pit vipers (Reptilia: Viperidae) along the Western Ghats of Goa, India

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Published: Sep 26, 2010
DOI: https://doi.org/10.11609/JoTT.o2489.1199-204

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N.S. Sawant
T.D. Jadhav
S.K. Shyama

Abstract

The distribution and abundance of pit vipers in the Western Ghats namely Trimeresurus gramineus (Bamboo Pit Viper), T. malabaricus (Malabar Pit Viper) and Hypnale hypnale (Hump-nosed Pit Viper) was investigated in five wildlife sanctuaries of Goa from 2005 to 2009. Seasonal day-night data was collected based on band transect methods. All the pit viper species showed specific habitat preferences and their abundance changed with season. They were most abundant during monsoon. H. hypnale extended its range to the adjoining cashew plantations during the post monsoon and winter.

Article Details

Issue
Vol 2, No 10 (2010)
Section
Communications

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Author Biographies

N.S. Sawant

Nitin S. Sawant employed with WWF-India, as State Director of the Goa State office, with responsibilities of designing, planning and executing environmental awareness and conservation programme in the state and to address issues pertaining to environment and wildlife. Actively involved in rescue operations of snakes and other wild animals in association with the forest department of Goa.

T.D. Jadhav

Trupti D. Jadhav founder member of Nirmiti, a local NGO working towards documentation of biodiversity and its conservation. Pursued MSc. in zoology through Goa University. Presently involved in wildlife conservation activities.

S.K. Shyama

Dr. S.K. Shyama, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Goa University.