Monitor lizard sighted, rescued in Shopian south Kashmir
Shopian: In a rare incident, a monitor lizard was spotted for the first time in the hilly district of Shopian in south Kashmir — a region known for its cold climate, where the presence of such reptiles is considered highly unusual.
According to officials, the sighting occurred in the Alialpora area of Shopian town, when local residents noticed a large, strange-looking lizard. Alarmed by its unusual size and appearance, they immediately informed the Wildlife Department.
A team of experts rushed to the spot and, after sustained efforts, managed to capture the reptile safely. The monitor lizard is now in the department’s custody and is reported to be in good health.
Wildlife officials confirmed that this is the first recorded presence of a monitor lizard in Kashmir Valley.
“Given Shopian’s cold temperatures for most of the year, finding a monitor lizard here is unexpected. The reasons for its presence are being investigated,” said an official.
Biologists note that India is home to four species of monitor lizards — the Bengal Monitor (Varanus bengalensis), Water Monitor (Varanus salvator), Yellow Monitor (Varanus flavescens), and Desert Monitor (Varanus griseus).
All four species are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and are also listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This means that hunting, trade, or any form of exploitation of these reptiles is strictly prohibited and punishable under law.
In many parts of India, monitor lizards have been hunted illegally for their meat, use in traditional medicine, and superstitious beliefs.
Experts stress that such activities pose a serious threat to their survival and that strict conservation measures are essential to protect the species.
The unusual sighting in Shopian has sparked curiosity among residents and researchers alike, with many eager to know whether this was an isolated incident or a sign of changing wildlife patterns in the region.
