The herpetofauna of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in central Bhutan: status, distribution and new records

Abstract

A checklist of herpetofauna in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in central Bhutan based on field surveys and photographic records is presented. Twelve families, 30 genera, and 42 species of herpetofauna were recorded; 33 species from 24 genera and eight families were reptiles and nine species belonging to six genera and four families were amphibians. Two ophidians, Bungarus caerulus and B. lividus, and one anuran, Amolops formosus, are new records for Bhutan. The compiled record also includes three threatened species. We recommend enhanced monitoring and herpetofauna-oriented conservation and research for Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park.

Keywords

• amphibians
• bhutan
• herpetofauna
• lizards
• protected area
• reptiles
• snakes
• turtles