Amphibian and Reptilian Inventories Augmented by Sampling at Heronries

Abstract

An alternate method for supporting amphibian and reptilian inventory was tested. This experimental method involved the collection of regurgitated food from water bird nestlings from a total of 10 heronries: four mixed-species and six single-species heronries in Gujarat State, India, during 1997 to 1999. We verified the presence of twelve species of amphibians, and twelve species of reptiles were recovered intact.

Various methods are used to evaluate the diversity of amphibians and reptiles, many of which are resource-dependent in terms of both time and money (e.g., Heyer et al. 1994). The verification process in such diversity surveys generally requires the collection of voucher specimens for establishing the credibility of the work (Dubois and Nemesio 2007; Funk et al. 2005). Vouchers also facilitate further taxonomic studies and the identification of cryptic species, especially when species complexes occupy the area being surveyed. The collection of specimens requires permission from the appropriate government authority. Because relevant authorities in India are often hardcore believers of the philosophy of “Jiv Daya” (a Jainist concept involving compassion for all beings) and unaware of the need for voucher specimens, acquisition of permits to collect in protected areas (sanctuaries and national parks), even for studies of biodiversity and environmental assessments is extremely difficult. Even when permission for voucher collection is granted, strict time constraints are imposed. These render surveys of large areas almost impossible, particularly because vouchers ideally involve a series of specimens of various species (Goodman and Lanyon 1994) and collection methods often are very time consuming. Consequently, methods that are less time-consuming and less expensive are needed. Herein, we test one such alternative.