A massive scientific survey will be conducted across four national parks and one sanctuary in the Munnar Wildlife Division to map amphibian and reptile biodiversity.

  • Survey covers Eravikulam, Anamudi Shola, Pambadum Shola, and Mathikettan Shola National Parks.
  • Joint effort by Munnar Wildlife Division and Aranyakam Nature Foundation.
  • Focus shifted from simple identification to deep ecological data collection.

The Munnar Wildlife Division is set to launch an extensive amphibian and reptile survey from Thursday to Sunday (September 3 to 6). This scientific endeavor will span several critical protected areas, including the Eravikulam, Anamudi Shola, Pambadum Shola, and Mathikettan Shola National Parks, as well as the Kurinjimala Sanctuary.

A robust team of approximately 60 experts and volunteers, supported by 60 Forest Department personnel, will execute the four-day operation. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the wildlife division and the Aranyakam Nature Foundation, aiming to refine the understanding of the region's herpetological diversity.

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Historical Background

The significance of this survey is rooted in previous findings. In 2022, an initial survey documented 52 species of amphibians and 47 species of reptiles within the division. While that exercise was successful in creating a baseline list, the current mission seeks to move beyond mere cataloging.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this shift toward 'ecological data' is critical for modern conservation. By estimating species abundance and mapping distribution ranges, researchers can detect early warning signs of habitat degradation. The focus on 'sky islands'—the unique shola-grassland ecosystems—is particularly vital, as these high-altitude habitats often house endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

"The objective is to collect deeper ecological data, assess habitat changes, and identify species not previously recorded in these zones."

To ensure scientific rigor, the survey area has been strategically divided into 16 base camps. The leadership team includes Wildlife Warden K. V. Harikrishnan, Assistant Wildlife Wardens Nizam A. and Anilkumar A., and noted herpetologist Sandeep Das along with researchers Nithin Divakar and Dhruvaraj S.

Metric 2022 Survey 2026 Survey (Current)
Primary Goal Species Identification Ecological Mapping & Abundance
Amphibian Species 52 Documented Updated Census Pending
Reptile Species 47 Documented Updated Census Pending
Did You Know?: Shola forests are unique stunted tropical montane forests found in the Western Ghats, often separated by grasslands, acting as biological islands for evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which parks are included in the survey?
A: Eravikulam, Anamudi Shola, Pambadum Shola, and Mathikettan Shola National Parks, and the Kurinjimala Sanctuary.

Q2: Who is organizing the event?
A: It is a joint venture between the Munnar Wildlife Division and the Aranyakam Nature Foundation.