Nagpur: Wildlife enthusiasts in Nagpur were treated to a rare sight on Monday as the rare Giri’s Geckoella (Cyrtodactylus varadgirii) lizard was spotted in the Pipla Phata area of the city. This species, named after scientist Varad Giri who discovered it in 2016, has become a subject of fascination for its unique characteristics and habitat preferences.
Giri’s Geckoella is a ground-dwelling lizard typically found amidst leaf litter on forest floors. Nocturnal by nature, these lizards seek shelter under wooden logs and rocks during the day. Despite its vibrant appearance, often mistaken for a poisonous creature, this lizard plays a crucial role in its ecosystem and is not harmful to humans.
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The recent sighting occurred when a passerby on the outer road of Pipla Phata mistook the lizard for a snakelet (snake baby) resembling a python. Promptly informing Gaurang Waikar, a member of the Wildlife Welfare Society, the observer raised the alarm. Gaurang, along with his associate Nitish Bhandakkar, rushed to the location and confirmed the species as the rare Giri’s Geckoella.
This sighting not only adds to the documented occurrences of this species but also highlights the importance of public awareness in conserving and protecting such unique wildlife. As Nagpur continues to be a hotspot for biodiversity, sightings like these serve as reminders of the need for proactive conservation efforts to safeguard the rich natural heritage of the region.
