Reptiles
Shyaadri Forest Calotes (Calotes rouxii)
A vibrant lizard native to the Western Ghats' evergreen forests.
Often spotted on tree trunks and low branches, this colorful reptile blends perfectly with the lush greenery of Radhanagri. Known for its calm behavior and striking hues, it plays a vital role in the forest’s ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
Indian Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor)
A common yet fascinating lizard with changing colors.
Easily found around Radhanagri’s edges and open spaces, this lizard is known for its ability to change color during mating season or when threatened. Active during the day, it helps maintain the insect balance in the local ecosystem.
Indian Chameleon (Chamaeleo zeylanicus)
A master of camouflage with independent eyes.
Spotted occasionally in the dense foliage of Radhanagri, this slow-moving reptile can change its color to match its surroundings. With the ability to move each eye independently, it’s a true marvel of nature and a symbol of patience and precision.
Kolhapur Day Gecko (Cnemaspis kolhapurensis)
A tiny, elusive gecko found only in Kolhapur’s forests.
Endemic to the rocky patches and moist crevices of Radhanagri, this rare day-active gecko is a true local gem. With its small size and excellent grip, it darts across stones and tree trunks, escaping predators and catching insects with ease.
Deccan Ground Gecko (Geckoella deccanensis)
A nocturnal ground-dweller of the Deccan plateau.
Active after dusk, this small, earthy-toned gecko is often seen near leaf litter and under rocks in the Radhanagri region. Unlike typical wall geckos, it prefers staying on the forest floor, blending with the soil and moving silently through the undergrowth.
Bamboo Pit Viper (Trimeresurus species)
A silent and venomous guardian of the bamboo thickets.
Seen curled on low branches or hidden in dense bamboo, this bright green viper is both mesmerizing and dangerous. Mostly active at night, it strikes with precision when disturbed. In Radhanagri’s forests, it plays a crucial role in controlling rodent and frog populations.
Malabar Pit Viper (Trimeresurus malabaricus)
A colorful viper found resting in the monsoon-soaked forests.
With shades ranging from brown to vibrant yellow and green, this viper is a master of disguise. Often seen coiled quietly on tree branches or near streams in Radhanagri, it’s venomous but non-aggressive unless provoked. A true monsoon sentinel of the Western Ghats.
Common Vine Snake (Ahaetulla nasuta)
A slender, sharp-sighted predator among the leaves.
With its bright green body and pointed snout, this vine snake blends seamlessly with the foliage of Radhanagri. It’s known for its binocular vision and calm demeanor. Mostly seen during the day, it preys on small lizards and frogs with surgical precision.
Olive Forest Snake (Rhabdops olivaceus)
A shy, non-venomous snake of the wet forest floor.
Mostly active during twilight or after rains, this harmless snake is often found near leaf litter and stream beds in Radhanagri. Its olive-brown body helps it blend with the forest floor, where it feeds on frogs and small insects. Gentle by nature, it’s a true forest softie.