Abstract:
The herpetofauna of Zambia has been relatively well-studied, although most surveys were conducted
decades ago. In western Zambia in particular, surveys were largely restricted to a few centers, particularly
those along the Zambezi River. We here report on the herpetofauna of the Ngonye Falls and surrounding
regions in south-western Zambia. We recorded 18 amphibian, one crocodile, two chelonian, 22 lizard, and 19
snake species, although a number of additional species are expected to occur in the region based on their
known distribution and habitat preferences. We also provide three new reptile country records for Zambia
(Long-tailed Worm Lizard, Dalophia longicauda, Anchieta’s Worm Lizard, Monopeltis anchietae, and Zambezi
Rough-scaled Lizard, Ichnotropis grandiceps), and report on the second specimen of Schmitz’s Legless Skink,
Acontias schmitzi, a species described in 2012 and until now known only from the holotype. This record also
represents a 140 km southward range extension for the species.
