Importance of Waisali Reserve, Vanua Levu for herpetofauna conservation in Fiji

Abstract

A two day herpetofauna survey of Waisali Reserve was conducted between 4-6th March, 2004. The survey consisted of timed active diurnal surveys for lizards and nocturnal surveys for frogs. Seven herpetofauna species were found during the survey including four endemic species. The most significant find was the confirmation of a population of the endangered Fiji ground frog (Platymantis vitianus), a species previously thought to be extirpated from mainland Fiji due to the presence of mongoose. The other significant finding was that of Emoia mokosariniveikau, only the third location known for this species. Our survey results identify Waisali Reserve as an important site for herpetofauna conservation in Fiji and we propose several management actions to facilitate conservation of herpetofauna in this area.