In an exciting development, a recent biodiversity survey has officially documented the presence of the elusive Beddome’s cat skink (Ristella beddomii) in both the Aralam and Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuaries for the very first time. Adding to this remarkable discovery, the survey also reconfirmed the continued existence of the Kottiyoor Day Gecko (Cnemaspis Kottiyoorensis), a species once feared lost and rediscovered in 2014 after an absence of several decades, affirming its critically endangered status.
Known scientifically as Ristella beddomii, or more commonly as Beddome’s ristella, this fascinating creature is a small, reddish-brown lizard. It boasts unique retractable claws and distinct bicarinate scales. This species thrives in the verdant forests of the Western Ghats, typically at altitudes ranging from 400 to 1,300 meters. Named in honor of the renowned British naturalist Richard Henry Beddome, it is celebrated as a rare gem, found nowhere else on Earth but this specific region.
Beddome’s Cat Skink | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
These significant findings underscore the extraordinary lizard diversity thriving within these two sanctuaries, which collectively serve as vital havens for numerous species found exclusively in the Western Ghats. Conservation experts emphasize that these discoveries reinforce the urgent need for ongoing monitoring and dedicated efforts to protect this delicate and invaluable ecosystem.
This crucial survey, a collaborative effort between the Forest Department and the Malabar Awareness and Rescue Centre for Wildlife (MARC), was conducted under the auspices of the Aralam Wildlife Division from September 20 to 23.
During this intensive exercise, the teams meticulously documented an impressive array of new observations, including six previously unrecorded agamid lizards, four types of skinks, and five distinct gecko species.
Notably, the critically endangered Kottiyoor Day Gecko was observed in the Suryamudi forest area of Kottiyoor sanctuary. The initiative also included valuable training for forest staff, featuring a specialized workshop on lizard identification led by renowned herpetologist Dr. S.R. Ganesh, with MARC secretary Dr. Roshnath Ramesh providing insights into effective survey techniques.
The program commenced with an inauguration ceremony at Valayamchal in Aralam sanctuary, officiated by Wildlife Warden V. Ratheesan, and featured addresses by Assistant Warden Ramya Raghavan. Officials expressed that this survey establishes a vital foundation for future research into the region’s less-explored reptiles. Furthermore, subsequent surveys are already in the pipeline, focusing on amphibians, including the endangered Kottiyoor tree frog, to ensure comprehensive ecological understanding and protection.