AN UPDATED CHECKLIST OF SNAKES FROM NAM DONG ENDANGERED GYMNOSPERM CONSERVATION AREA, THANH HOA PROVINCE

Abstract

Five field surveys were conducted in the Nam Dong Endangered Gymnosperm Conservation Area, Thanh Hoa province in 2022, 2023 and 2024. As a result of our field work, we identified a total of 40 species of snakes (25 genera, 6 families). Our findings increase the number of snake species recorded in the study area to 43, belonging to 27 genera and 8 families. Seven species were recorded for the first time from this protected area, with three species being new records to Thanh Hoa province, namely Günther's Reed Snake (Liopeltis frenata), Fasciolated Kukri Snake (Oligodon fasciolatus) and Green Keelback (Rhabdophis nigrocinctus). In terms of conservation status, seven species are listed in the IUCN Red List (2024), the Vietnam Red Data Book (2007), and Governmental Decree No. 84/2021/ND-CP.