Herpetofauna in Northern Areas are represented by three families of amphibians (Ranidae, Bufonidae & Megaphrydae) and eight families of reptiles (Gekkonidae, Agamidae, Scincidae, Varanidae, Boidae, Colubidae, Elaphidae and Viperidae). About 23 species of reptiles and 6 of amphibians have been reported from here. Among reptiles 9 species are of lizards and 14 of snakes, while among amphibians two species are of frogs and four of toads (Virk et al., 2003).

Since herpetofauna are cold-blooded, the mountainous nature of the Northern Areas gives rise to relatively fewer species of reptiles and amphibians as compared to lower altitudes. Despite the efforts of some early herpetologists, this region’s herpetofauna is still largely undescribed. Most of the exploration is concentrated in and around protected areas such as the Karakoram and Deosai national parks. For example, one species of frog (Scutiger occidentalis) and two species of snakes, Himalayan ground skink and glacier skinks have been recorded from Deosai. Scutiger occidentallis, the Kashmir mountain toad (or Deosai frog) have restricted ranges. More detailed work is necessary to understand the composition of herpetofauna in the Northern Areas.

Table. Endemic species of herpetofauna of Northern Areas

Source: Virk, A.T., Sheikh, K.M. and Marwat, A.H. 2003. NASSD Background Paper on Biodiversity, IUCN Pakistan.