Ibra: The Environment Authority in North Al Sharqiyah Governorate has identified seven species of wild reptiles based on an initial survey conducted in the region.
The survey's preliminary results indicate a significant presence of these reptiles in mountainous areas and wadis, while certain species are confined to plains and desert environments. This distribution highlights the varying adaptations of each species to their surroundings and the influence of climatic factors, such as elevated temperatures and drought, on their behavior and habitat distribution.
The objective of the field survey was to gather updated information, create geographic distribution maps, and analyze the interaction of reptiles with their environment.
Additionally, the survey aimed to catalog all species, documenting their distribution and environmental conditions. The Atlas of Oman’s wild reptiles, published by the Environment Authority, has recorded over 101 reptile species in the Sultanate of Oman, accounting for approximately 50% of the total reptile species found in the Arabian Peninsula, which includes 21 snake species and 80 lizard species.
North Al Sharqiyah Governorate is recognized for its diverse environment and topography, encompassing mountainous regions, deserts, plains, and wadis, making it a suitable habitat for various wild reptile species.
Said Saif Al Busafi, Environment Inspector at the Environment Department in North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, noted that the field survey encompassed three wilayats: Dima Wal Ta’en, Al Qabil, and Ibra. The survey utilized GIS technology to ensure comprehensive data collection, distribution mapping, and analysis of reptile interactions with different environments.
