Socio-ecological assessment of squamate reptiles in a human-modified ecosystem of Darjeeling, Eastern Himalaya

Squamate reptiles are among the most underappreciated taxa due to their unappealing esthetics and numerous myths and misconceptions associated with them, depriving them of much needed conservation-related attention. This study was undertaken in a human-modified ecosystem of Darjeeling, Eastern Himalaya, by integrating ecological and social methods to assess the conservation potential of reptiles and understand community perceptions about reptiles. Ecological diversity was investigated by time-constrained visual encounter surveys, whereas key informant interviews (n = 42) using a semi-structured questionnaire examined the perceived diversity, attitudes, and behavior toward reptiles. Results indicated that respondents underestimated the local reptilian-diversity, but recognized their habitats and phenology. Eighty-three percent of key informants believed that squamates are poisonous, whereas 52% suggested that they would kill squamates. Knowledge-building programs that promote citizen science and help in identifying venomous squamates may be key to squamate reptile conservation in the region.