Snakes in Pune Suburbs

Occurrence
Latest version published by Alive Charitable Trust, Pune on Jan 22, 2025 Alive Charitable Trust, Pune
Publication date:
22 January 2025
License:
CC-BY-NC 4.0

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Description

This study focused on documenting snake diversity mainly within three Pune suburbs: Balewadi, Pashan, and Baner, over several years. By combining opportunistic observations and rescue operations, the study aimed to identify snake species present in these urban areas and understand their distribution patterns. The research highlighted the presence of a diverse range of snake species, including venomous and non-venomous types. This information is crucial for promoting human-wildlife coexistence and implementing effective conservation strategies. By understanding the distribution and ecology of snakes in urban areas, we can minimize conflicts, dispel misconceptions, and foster a harmonious relationship between humans and these often misunderstood reptiles.

Data Records

The data in this occurrence resource has been published as a Darwin Core Archive (DwC-A), which is a standardized format for sharing biodiversity data as a set of one or more data tables. The core data table contains 691 records.

1 extension data tables also exist. An extension record supplies extra information about a core record. The number of records in each extension data table is illustrated below.

Occurrence (core)
691
MeasurementOrFacts 
691

This IPT archives the data and thus serves as the data repository. The data and resource metadata are available for download in the downloads section. The versions table lists other versions of the resource that have been made publicly available and allows tracking changes made to the resource over time.

Versions

The table below shows only published versions of the resource that are publicly accessible.

Rights

Researchers should respect the following rights statement:

The publisher and rights holder of this work is Alive Charitable Trust, Pune. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial (CC-BY-NC 4.0) License.

GBIF Registration

This resource has been registered with GBIF, and assigned the following GBIF UUID: 3e23524e-5841-49a6-9157-e3b4267d155d.  Alive Charitable Trust, Pune publishes this resource, and is itself registered in GBIF as a data publisher endorsed by Participant Node Managers Committee.

Keywords

Occurrence

Contacts

Rajendra Kamble
  • Originator
  • Point Of Contact
Alive Charitable Trust
411044 Pune
Maharashtra
IN
Umesh Vaghela
  • Originator
Alive Charitable Trust
411044 Pune
Maharashtra
IN
Bhalchandra Pujari
  • Metadata Provider
  • Originator
Alive Charitable Trust
411044 Pune
Maharashtra
IN

Geographic Coverage

Geographic area covers a select suburbs of Pune city in the state of Maharashtra, India

Bounding Coordinates South West [18.395, 73.478], North East [18.707, 76.577]

Taxonomic Coverage

No Description available

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Reptilia
Order Squamata
Family Uropeltidae, Viperidae, Elapidae, Boidae, Typhlopidae, Colubridae

Temporal Coverage

Start Date / End Date 2014-03-28 / 2025-01-03

Project Data

The project focuses on the analysis of multiple datasets related to human-wildlife encounters. By examining these datasets, we aim to uncover patterns, trends, and correlations that shed light on the complex dynamics between humans and wildlife. The insights gained from this analysis will contribute to a better understanding of human-wildlife coexistence and inform effective conservation strategies.

Title ALIVE Human-Wildlife encounters
Identifier alive-human-wildlife-encounters
Study Area Description Pune, a bustling metropolis, is surrounded by diverse suburban areas that offer a unique blend of urban development and natural habitats. These suburbs, with their mix of residential areas, agricultural lands, and green spaces, provide suitable conditions for a variety of snake species. From the tranquil lakes and gardens to the bustling markets and industrial zones, these areas create a mosaic of habitats that support a diverse snake community. While some species, like the common Indian rat snake, are frequent visitors to these suburban areas, others, such as the venomous Russell's viper and Indian cobra, can pose a risk to human populations. Understanding the distribution and ecology of these snakes is crucial for promoting coexistence and minimizing human-snake conflicts. The study is performed, based on the rescue operations done, mainly in three suburban areas of Pune: Balewadi, Baner, and Pashan
Design Description This study took a closer look at snakes in three Pune suburbs: Balewadi, Pashan, and Baner, from 2014 onwards. The researcher, RK, spent time searching for snakes and responding to calls about snakes in the area. They carefully recorded each encounter, noting the snake species, location, date, and time of year. After safely capturing and identifying the snakes, they were released back into their natural habitat. The main goals of this study were to: 1. Create a list of all the snake species found in these suburbs. 2. Understand how often snakes were seen and if there were any patterns in their appearance, such as seasonal changes or proximity to human settlements. By combining data from direct observations and rescue calls, the study aimed to get a comprehensive picture of snake diversity and their interactions with people in these urban areas. Additionally, the study considered how changes in the environment, like new buildings and roads, might affect snake populations and their behavior. This information can help us better understand and protect these important creatures in our urban landscape. The rescue operations, identifications and data collection were done by the first contact (RK) who is authorized by Maharashtra Forest Department. The other contacts (UV and BP) are responsible for data editing, metadata creation and project management.

The personnel involved in the project:

Rajendra Kamble
  • Originator
Umesh Vaghela
  • Editor
Bhalchandra Pujari
  • Custodian Steward

Sampling Methods

The study adopted an opportunistic sampling approach, relying on encounters and rescue calls to document snake sightings mainly within three Pune suburbs: Balewadi, Pashan, and Baner, from 2014. Whenever a snake was spotted by a local resident or security personnel, it was reported to the primary researcher, RK. The researcher would then respond to the call, identify the snake, and record relevant information such as location, date, and time. This method, while providing valuable insights into snake encounters in urban areas, has inherent limitations. It primarily captures instances where snakes interact with humans, potentially underestimating the overall snake diversity and abundance in these areas. Additionally, the frequency of encounters can be influenced by factors like human activity patterns, weather conditions, and the visibility of snakes. Despite these limitations, the opportunistic approach offers a practical and cost-effective way to gather data on snake occurrences in urban environments. By analyzing these data, researchers can gain insights into species diversity, habitat use, and potential conflict zones, which can inform conservation efforts and public awareness campaigns.

Study Extent Three main areas where sampled were Balewadi, Pashan and Baner but few other suburbs of Pune were also sampled.
Quality Control To ensure data accuracy, we implemented rigorous quality control measures. Snake species were identified using established taxonomic references and verified through photographs. Researchers were trained in safe handling and identification techniques, using professional tools to minimize harm to the snakes. Only confirmed sightings, verified through direct observation or photographic evidence, were included in the dataset. Unverified reports were excluded to maintain data integrity. Data was meticulously recorded using a standardized format, and regular reviews were conducted to identify and rectify any inconsistencies.

Method step description:

  1. Initial Observation: Alternatively, a report of a snake sighting is received through designated communication channels.
  2. Verification and Documentation: The reported sighting is verified through direct observation or photographic evidence. Key morphological features, coloration, and behavior are noted, and photographs are taken for documentation and future reference.
  3. Safe Capture and Handling: If necessary, the snake is carefully captured using appropriate tools and techniques to minimize stress and ensure the safety of both the reptile and the handler.
  4. Species Identification: The captured snake is identified using established taxonomic keys and references, such as Whitaker & Captain (2008). Photographs and field notes are used to aid in identification.
  5. Data Recording: Detailed information about the encounter is systematically recorded, including date, time, location, species, habitat type, and relevant environmental conditions.
  6. Release and Conservation: After identification and documentation, the snake is released back into its natural habitat, ensuring minimal disturbance and promoting its well-being.
  7. Data Quality Assurance: The recorded data is reviewed and cross-verified with photographs and field notes to ensure accuracy and consistency. Any discrepancies or ambiguities are resolved through further investigation.
  8. Dataset management: The verified and accurate data is added to the comprehensive dataset.

Additional Metadata

Alternative Identifiers 3e23524e-5841-49a6-9157-e3b4267d155d
https://cloud.gbif.org/asia/resource?r=snakes_pune_subburbs