Analysis of the database of reptile admissions to the Horco Molle Experimental Reserve, National University of Tucumán (Tucumán, Argentina)

Abstract

The use of wild animals as pets is a common practice in Argentina. The Rescue Center of the Horco Molle Experimental Reserve (REHM) receives different species of animals as a result of the illegal trade or from faunal rescues. The aim of this study was to analyze the admission of reptiles to the REHM, since 1988, in order to determine which species were more common, years with greater admissions and seasons when they occurred. The results show that the terrestrial tortoise (Chelonoidis chilensis) was the most common, followed by the “caraguay” lizard (Tupinambis rufescens and T. merianae) and the “lampalagua” snake (Boa constrictor occidentalis). This may be due to the fact that the tor toise is the reptile most often sold illegally, whereas lizards and snakes arrived from rescues after forest clearances and civil constructions. Caraguay lizards have also begun to be exploited as pets. Entries have greatly increased since 1997, with a peak in 2006. This might be due to the fact that the Reserve is getting known, consolidating as an institution for the reception of these animals and, in addition, because since 1997, admission recording has improved. Seasons with most entries were in the summer and spring, which might be due to the fact that reptiles remain inactive during fall and winter.