Microhabitat of Indian rock pythons (Python molurus) in Moyar river valley, tropical India

The knowledge of microhabitats used by a species is essential for its effective conservation and management. This study aimed to quantify the microhabitat use of Indian rock pythons (Python molurus) in the Sathyamangalam and Mudumalai Tiger Reserves (STR & MTR), Tamil Nadu. Fourteen pythons were captured through intensive search and opportunistic methods from STR, MTR, and nearby villages and then radio-track between 2018 and 2020. The various microhabitats were categorized and quantified based on sightings of the radio-tagged pythons. Atotal of 401 microhabitat locations were collected and classified into eight categories: burrows, dead fallen trees, dry bushes, green bushes, trees, open areas, rock crevices, and water. The study results showed that the microhabitat use of male and female pythons was significantly related . The number of sightings was converted into proportions, revealing that dry and green bushes were the most preferred microhabitats by pythons. This study provides valuable insights into the microhabitat preferences of P. molurus in tropical climatic conditions and can help in the formulation of effective policies and measures to protect this species and its micro-habitats.