Check List the journal of

biodiversity data

Lists of Species Check List 13(3): 2121, 19 May 2017  https://doi.org/10.15560/13.3.2121

ISSN 1809-127X  © 2017 Check List and Authors

Amphibians and reptiles from the Mt. Hamiguitan Range of eastern

Mindanao Island, Philippines: new distribution records
Christian E. Supsup1, 2, 5, Faith M. Guinto2, Bernard R. Redoblado3 & Rai S. Gomez4
1
Biology Department, College of Science, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines 1004
2
Fauna & Flora International Philippines, #8 Foggy Heights Subdivision, Barangay San Jose, Tagaytay City, Philippines 4120
3
Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau – Biodiversity Coastal Wetland Ecosystem Research Center, Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines 6014
4
Philippine Eagle Foundation, Inc., Philippine Eagle Center, Baguio District, Davao City Philippines
5
Corresponding author. E-mail: supsupchristian@gmail.com

Abstract. Despite extensive surveys conducted in the past, and reptiles from areas previously unknown or poorly known
many remote areas in the Philippines remain unexplored and to science, such as several localities on Luzon Island (Mcleod
many species are unknown to science. The Mount Hami- et al. 2011; Devan-Song & Brown 2012; Brown et al. 2012,
guitan Range (MHR) is among these areas, containing large 2013a), the Babuyan group of islands (Oliveros et al. 2011),
remaining forests tracts. In this study, we report new records Romblon group of islands (Siler et al. 2012), Panay Island
of amphibians and reptiles from MHR and propose remov- (Ferner et al. 2000; Gaulke 2011) and Cebu Island (Supsup et
ing two species from the previously listed species from this al. 2016). On Mindanao Island, herpetological surveys are also
mountain range. We used standardized techniques to sample increasing (David et al. 2006; Delima et al. 2007; Beukema
populations of amphibians and reptiles in fragmented forests 2011; Nuñeza et al. 2015; Plaza & Sanguila 2015). However,
of Mt. Hamiguitan. Our survey resulted in 16 new records of large areas of Mindanao are still unexplored (Heaney et al.
species (four frogs, three lizards and nine snakes). Combining 2006; Peterson et al. 2008; Siler et al. 2009; Beukema 2011;
our results with previous studies, the known species diversity Sanguila et al. 2016), and many new species are still being
from the MHR is now increased to a total of 61 taxa. Our described (e.g., Brown et al. 2009; Siler et al. 2009).
results highlight the underestimated diversity of herpetofauna The Mindanao Pleistocene Aggregate Island Complex
of Mt. Hamiguitan, and we discuss the importance of repeated (Mindanao PAIC), including Dinagat, Siargao, Bohol, Leyte,
surveys for determining species occurrences and assessing Samar, and other neighbouring small islands (Inger 1954;
their conservation status. Heaney 1985, 1986; Diesmos & Brown 2009a), harbors many
Key words. Checklist; herpetofauna; conservation status; repeated unique and globally threatened endemic species. There are
surveys 10 areas on the island identified as conservation priority for
amphibians and reptiles (PBCPP 2002). Most of these are
located in eastern Mindanao, where one of the largest remain-
INTRODUCTION ing forest tracts in the Philippines is found (Forest Management
The herpetofauna of the Philippines is extraordinarily rich Bureau 2013). The Eastern Mindanao region was declared as
and taxonomically diverse given the country’s small land area a biodiversity corridor, encompassing the islands of Siargao
(Inger 1954; Alcala 1986; Brown et al. 2001, 2009, 2013a). and Dinagat, Lake Mainit, and Agusan Marsh, as well as
Past efforts to document the natural history and biology of Mount Hilong-hilong, Diwata Mountain Range, Hamiguitan
amphibians and reptiles by herpetologists and biogeographers Range, and other mountain peaks in between. This region has
have revealed the herpetological and conservation importance received little attention (Sanguila et al. 2016), with only few
of the Philippines (Brown et al. 2001, 2009, 2013a). However, herpetological studies conducted in the past, particularly in
complete knowledge of the ecology and distribution of many southeast portion (Smith 1993a). Some of these are the surveys
species is still lacking, which is in a challenge to effective con- conducted by Smith (1993a, b) in Diwata Range, and Delima et
servation planning and species-specific intervention (Smith al. (2007) and Relox et al. (2011) in MHR. Delima et al. (2007)
1993a, b; Margules & Pressey 2000). This shortfall may be documented 34 species (15 frogs, 19 reptiles) from MHR, and
due to species living in remote, unexplored areas in the country Relox et al. (2011) added 13 more species, completing the total
(Dickinson et al. 1991; Mallari et al. 2004). In recent years, of 47 species known from this mountain. In this paper, we
intensive efforts have begun to address these gaps and have present additional species records which document the pres-
resulted in numerous comprehensive reports of amphibians ence of 4 amphibians and 12 reptiles (lizards, snakes). Based

1
 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

Figure 1. Map of the Philippines (right panel), showing the nine recognized Pleistocene Aggregate Island Complexes (PIACs, Inger 1954; Heaney
1985, 1986; Diesmos & Brown 2009a) and location of Mt. Hamiguitan Range within the Philippines, indicated by red box. The left panel shows Mt.
Hamiguitan Range found in the southernmost tip of eastern Mindanao. Declared Mt. Hamiguitan Wildlife Sanctuary is represented by a polygon in a
dashed line. Elevation contours are indicated by incremental shading, and survey sites are represented by numbered circles (in yellow).

on our critical consideration of the past records, we propose has been declared as a protected wildlife sanctuary in 2004
removing 2 species from the list of species from MHR. Our (Republic Act 9303; Fig. 1).
study increases the known herpetofauna of MHR to 61 species We conducted our herpetological surveys between 23
of amphibians and reptiles. November and 30 December 2014 in Sitio Basyao, Barangay
Oregon, Municipality of Governor Generoso (06°34ʹ33.6ʺ N,
126°09ʹ43.8ʺ E; Fig. 1; Table 1). The site is located outside the
MATERIALS AND METHODS
wildlife sanctuary. During our survey, the site’s temperature
Study site ranged from 26–27 °C. The area is relatively dry, but there
were days with intermittent rain in the afternoon between
The MHR is located at the southernmost tip of eastern Mind-
14:00–18:00 h. Our camp was established near a river, bounded
anao (Fig. 1). The native vegetation is characterized by forests
by steep hills. The vegetation is a mosaic of cultivation and
growing over ultramafic rocks at high elevations (> 1200 m;
fragments of secondary growth forests, with elevation ranging
Fernando et al. 2008), with lower elevations typically com-
from 200 to 700 m (Fig. 2). Agricultural plots of coconut and
posed of mixed lowland dipterocarp and lower montane forest
corn are dominant in the area (Fig. 2c).
communities (Mallari et al. 2001; Relox et al. 2011). Native
tree species include Agathis philippinensis, Shorea negro-
Herpetofaunal surveys
sensis, Shorea guiso, Palaquium obovatum and the heavy
metal indicator Scaevola micrantha (Fernando et al. 2008; Amphibian and reptile populations were surveyed by employ-
Amoroso & Aspiras 2011). The mountain range has an annual ing a 10 × 100 m standardized strip transect (Heyer et al. 1994;
mean temperature of 26.1 °C at lower elevations (< 1200 m) Delima et al 2007; Diesmos 2008). Each 10 m interval along
and 19.2 °C in high elevations (> 1200 m); and the annual mean the transect line was marked with luminous tape to serve as
precipitation has been reported at approximately 2232 mm/ a guide. Eleven transects were established and positioned
yr (Hijmans et al. 2005; Delima et al. 2007). Only a small randomly, covering different habitat types (cultivation, early
portion of the mountain range (6834 ha) located in the north and secondary growth forests), in an effort to avoid sampling

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

Figure 2. Habitat types in the study site. A. Vegetation at higher elevation with large patch of cleared forest. B. Degraded secondary growth forest
near camp. C. Coconut plantation in western side of study site. D. Riparian vegetation in the study site. Photos by C. Supsup.

Table 1. Survey sites in Mt. Hamiguitan Range. Sources of geographic coordinates: sites 1 and 2, Relox et al. 2011; sites 3–5, Delima et al. 2007; site 6,
this study.

Site no. General Locality Specific Locality Latitude (N) Longitude (E)
1 Municipality of San Isidro Barangay Bitaogan 06°46’22” 126°08’49”
2 Municipality of San Isidro Barangay La Union 06°43’33” 126°09’53”
3 Municipality of San Isidro Barangay La Union - Tumalite 06°44’3.4” 126°09’3.4”
4 Municipality of San Isidro Barangay La Union - Tinagong Dagat 06°43’56” 126°10’41”
5 Municipality of San Isidro Barangay La Union - Camp 3 06°43’03” 126°11’1.9”
6 Municipality of Governor Generoso Barangay Oregon - Basyao 06°34’33.6” 126°09’43.8”

bias. Each transect was surveyed by 3 persons during day- allow proper identification and body measurements (weight,
light (07:00–11:00 h) and at night (18:00–23:00 h). To avoid snout–vent length, tail length). Specimens were photographed
disturbance, transects surveyed during the day were not and released following data collection. Photo vouchers were
traversed at night, and vice-versa, on successive days/nights. deposited at the University of Kansas Digital Archives
We performed acoustic and visual searches while travers- (KUDA). We follow Brown & Alcala (1978), Brown &
ing transect lines. Species observed within transects were Alcala (1980), and Alcala (1986) for initial species iden-
recorded, as were associated data, including their habitat and tification. These identifications were verified by R.M. Brown
activity upon first notice (e.g., calling, foraging, mating, etc.). and A.C. Diesmos. Taxonomic arrangements of AmphibiaWeb
General searches were also conducted around the camp and (2016), Amphibian species of the world (Frost 2016), and the
along roads and trails. Some individuals were captured to Reptile Database (Uetz et al. 2016) were adopted by us.

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

A B

C D
Figure 3. Species of frogs. A. Limnonectes leytensis. B. Theloderma spinosum. C. Platymantis sp. D. Rhacophorus bimaculatus. Photos by C. Supsup and
N. Baron.

RESULTS conform to this status. However, we suspect that the popula-

We present new records of 4 amphibian and 12 reptile spe- tion from MHR could be declining because of forest degrada-
cies (3 lizards, 9 snakes) for the single site surveyed in the tion, which makes habitats (especially undisturbed river and
MHR. These additional records increase the number of taxa streams) vulnerable to disturbance. Observed individuals had
recorded for this mountain range to 61 species, excluding the 2 the following characters: snout–vent length 32–35 mm; small
putatively misidentified or doubtful species Parvosincus bey- body; snout obtusely pointed, ridges or tubercles visible on
eri and Oxyrhabdium leporinum (Table 2). Species accounts back; tips of toes and fingers slightly dilated into small and
and notes on distribution, conservation status, and habitat are rounded disks; life-color brown in upper dorsal body, fad-
provided below. ing progressively on vent and ventral region. Photo voucher:
KUDA 012504.
Amphibia (frogs)
Theloderma spinosum (Taylor, 1920)
Limonectes leytensis (Boettger, 1893) Figure 3b
Figure 3a There are 2 species of Theloderma in the Philippines: T.
This endemic species is known to occur in the Visayan and pictum and T. spinosum (Alcala & Brown 1998). Thelo-
Mindanao PAICs (Diesmos & Brown 2009a). We observed derma pictum is distributed mostly in Singapore, Malaysia,
this species on rocks along the river, in the northeast side of Indonesia, Borneo and the Philippines (Palawan Island). The-
our campsite. It was previously thought to be uncommon and loderma spinosum is endemic to the Philippines, and known to
considered as a swamp species (Alcala & Brown 1998) until occur only on the Mindanao PAIC Islands (Alcala & Brown
recent surveys (Denzer et al. 1994; Beukema 2011; Siler 1998). During our night survey, we observed an individual of
et al. 2011). Observations on the Sibuyan and Leyte islands T. spinosum on a plant leaf ca. 0.15 m above the ground, in a
(Siler et al. 2012; Mallari et al. 2013a, b, 2014) revealed that patch of secondary growth forests adjacent to cultivated areas.
this species is abundant and common in localities where it is The species current conservation status is Vulnerable (IUCN
known to occur (particularly in habitats such as flooded areas, 2016). We suspect that their distribution has been confined to
stream banks and temporary pools). Limnonectes leytensis is small fragmented forests and that it may naturally occur at
currently classified as Least Concern (IUCN 2016), and we low densities (or that it is less easily detected by field research-

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

Table 2. Amphibians (anurans) and reptiles (lizards and snakes) recorded from the Mt. Hamiguitan Range. Published reports of the species (marked by
Xs) are shown in columns including the new records during this study. Double asterisks (**) indicate putatively misidentified or doubtful species that
should be removed from the mountain. Numbers in sites column denote the location of species observations (see Table 1).

Delima Relox Delima Relox

This This
Taxa et al. et al. Sites Taxa et al. et al. Sites
study study
2007 2011 2007 2011
AMPHIBIA         Eutropis borealis (Brow & Alcala, 1980)   X   1
Bufonidae         Lamprolepis smaragdina (Mertens, 1929) X     3
Ansonia muelleri (Boulenger, 1887) X X   1, 3 Lipinia pulchella Gray, 1845 X X   2, 3
Ceratobatrachidae         Lipinia quadrivittata (Peters, 1867) X     3
Platymantis corrugatus (Duméril, 1853) X X   1, 3 Parvoscincus beyeri (Taylor, 1922a) **   X   2
Platymantis guentheri (Boulenger, 1882) X     4 Pinoyscincus coxi Taylor, 1915 X     3, 4 ,5
Platymantis sp.     X 6 Parvoscincus decipiens (Boulenger, 1895) X     3
Dicroglossidae         Sphenomorphus diwata Brown & Rabor, X     3, 5
Limnonectes diuatus Brown & Alcala, 1977 X     3 1967
Limonectes leytensis (Boettger, 1893)     X 6 Sphenomorphus fasciatus (Gray, 1845) X     4
Limnonectes magnus (Stejneger, 1910) X X   1, 2, Sphenomorphus variegatus (Peters, 1867) X X   1, 2, 3
3, 5 Tropidophorus davaoensis Bacon, 1980 X     4
Megophryidae         REPTILIA (SNAKES)        
Leptobrachium lumadorum Brown et al. X     3, 5 Colubridae        
2009 Ahaetulla prasina preocularis (Taylor,     X 6
Megophrys stejnegeri (Taylor, 1920) X X   1, 3, 4 1922c)
Microhylidae         Boiga cynodon (Boie, 1827)     X 6
Kalophrynus sinensis Peters, 1867   X   1 Boiga dendrophila (Boie, 1827)   X   1
Ranidae         Calamaria gervaisi Duméril & Bibron,   X   1, 2
Pulchrana grandocula (Taylor, 1920) X X   1, 2, 1854
3, 4 Cylclocorus nuchalis taylori Leviton, 1967 X 6
Sanguirana albotuberculata (Inger, 1954) X     4 Dendrelaphis marenae Vogel & Van     X 6
Staurois natator (Günther, 1858) X X   1, 2, 3 Rooijen, 2008
Rhacophoridae         Gonyosoma oxycephalum (Boie, 1827)     X 6
Theloderma spinosum (Taylor, 1920)     X 6 Lycodon dumerili (Boulenger, 1893)   X   1
Philautus sp. X     4, 5 Oligodon maculatus (Taylor, 1918)   X   1, 2
Philautus acutirostris (Peters, 1867) X X   1, 2, Psammodynastes pulverulentus (Boie, X X   1, 2, 3,
4, 5 1827) 4, 5
Philautus surdus (Peters, 1863) X     4, 5 Elapidae        
Philatus poecilius Brown & Alcala, 1994 X     4 Calliophis intestinalis (Laurenti, 1768) X     5
Polypedates leucomystax (Gravenhorst X X   1, 3, 4 Lamprophildae        
1829) Oyxrhabdium leporinum (Günther, 1858)   X   1
Rhacophorus bimaculatus (Peters, 1867)     X 6 **
REPTILIA (LIZARDS)         Oxyrhabdium modestum (Duméril, 1853)     X 6
Agamidae         Natricidae        
Bronchocela sp.     X 6 Rhabdophis auriculata (Günther, 1858) X     3, 4, 5
Draco bimaculatus Günther, 1864 X     3 Rhabdophis lineatus (Peters, 1861) X     3
Draco cyanopterus (Peters, 1867)     X 6 Tropidonophis dendrophiops (Günther,     X 6
1883)
Gonocephalus semperi (Peters, 1867)   X   1, 2
Pareatidae        
Gekkonidae        
Aplopeltura boa (Boie, 1828)     X 6
Cyrtodactylus annulatus (Taylor, 1915) X     3
Pythonidae        
Cyrtodactylus philippinicus (Steindacher, X     3
1867) Malayopython reticulatus (Schneider,   X   2
1801)
Gecko mindorensis Taylor, 1919   X   1, 2
Typhlopidae        
Scincidae        
Ramphotyphlops cumingii (Gray, 1845)     X 6
Brachymeles hilong (Brown & Rabor, 1967) X     3
Viperidae        
Brachymeles schadenbergi (Fischer, 1885) X     3
Trimeresurus flavomaculatus (Gray, 1842) X     3, 5
Eutropis englei (Taylor, 1925)   X   2
Tropidolaemus subannulatus (Gray, 1842)   X   1
Eutropis cf indeprensa (Brown & Alcala,     X 6
1980)

ers because of its quiet, difficult to locate advertisement call). fingers and toes pads are present; in life color is brownish-red,
This has been apparent in recent observations in southern with yellow spots. Photo voucher: KUDA 012508–09.
Leyte (Mallari et al. 2013). An immediate reassessment of
its status is needed. To date, there are no existing conservation Platymantis sp.
efforts focusing on this unique species. The only individual we Figure 3c
observed had the following characters: snout–vent length is 36 This unidentified Platymantis could be a new species from
mm; slightly elongated thin body; tiny tubercles-like on skin; MHR (A.C. Diesmos personal communication). At first glance,

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

B C
Figure 4. Species of lizards. A. Draco cyanopterus. B. Eutropis cf. indeprensa. C. Bronchocela sp. Photos by C. Supsup.

this species may look similar to P. corrugatus because of its found above spray zones, in cascading streams and waterfalls
black facial mask, but it differs significantly in terms of body (Gonzalez et al. 2014; Plaza & Sanguila 2015). Its current
size and other morphological characters. For instance, finger- conservation status is Vulnerable (IUCN 2016). A reassess-
tips are not swollen and ridges on dorsal surface are small, as ment of its status is needed because of its wide distribution
supposed to long ridges of P. corrugatus. We observed this (Diesmos et al. 2015), which is inconsistent with its current
species along a riverbank near our campsite. A taxonomic status assessment (IUCN 2016). Individuals observed had the
study is urgently needed to describe the species properly. Only following characters: snout–vent length between 29–40 mm;
one individual was observed, it had the following characters: blunt snout; smooth skin; webs present on both fingers and
snout–vent 30 mm; slightly pointed snout; small ridges on toes; life-color is brown, a white spot is often found below
back; significantly reduced webs on both fingers and toes; the eyes, males typically have irregular yellow green spots on
tips of fingers and toes slightly dilated; life-color is brownish- back. Photo voucher: KUDA 012506–07.
yellow. Photo voucher: KUDA 01250.
Reptilia (lizards)
Rhacophorus bimaculatus (Peters, 1867)
Figure 3d Bronchocela sp.
The species is historically considered native to Borneo, Figure 4c
Thailand and the Philippines (Inger 1954; Brown & Alcala Bronchocela cristatella was previously considered to
1994; Alcala & Brown 1998). However, a recent study be widely distributed in Southeast Asia and the Philippines
suggested that the population from outside the Philippines (Hallermann 2013; Grismer et al. 2015, 2016; Zug et al.
is a distinct species (R. cynopunctatus; Manthey & Steiof 2017). At present, taxonomic issues plague the understand-
1998; Gonzalez et al. 2014). Racophorus bimaculatus is ing of Philippine populations (see Brown et al. 2012, 2013b).
now restricted to the Philippines and presently recognized Brown et al. (2013b) suggested that the group from Luzon
to occur in southern Luzon and the Mindanao PAIC (van could be recognized as B. marmorata, but Mindanao popula-
Dijk et al. 2004; Gonzalez et al. 2014). Several individuals tions may not necessarily be associated with this name and
of this species were observed in secondary growth forest, on they are likely not conspecific with B. cristatella (type locality:
leaves of Schismatoglottis sp. found on the banks of undis- Sulawesi, Indonesia). We observed this species on degraded
turbed streams. Other studies have reported that this species secondary growth forest ca. 500 m south from our camp, on
can be observed perching on trees, shrubs and other plants tree foliage. Brown et al. (2012) assessed the species conser-

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

vation status as Least Concern. The individual we observed following characters: snout–vent length 780 mm; 1 preocular;
had the following characters: snout-vent length 96 mm, tail 2 postoculars; 10 supralabials; loreal present; slender and com-
384 mm; nine upper and lower labials; slender body; scales pressed body; pointed snout; elongated head and distinct from
keeled; life-color when undisturbed is yellow green, dorsal neck; in life color is green, ventral is greenish-yellow. Photo
crest on neck is white, an elongated white spot is often found voucher: KUDA 012520.
below its tympanum. Photo voucher: KUDA 012510.
Aplopeltura boa (Boie, 1828)
Draco cyanopterus (Peters, 1867) Figure 5b
Figure 4a Aplopeltura boa is a widespread species, distributed
This endemic flying lizard has been recorded in central and throughout Southeast Asia (Grismer et al. 2010). In the Philip-
eastern Mindanao, Camiguin and Dinagat Islands (McGuire pines, the species was previously considered rare and not often
& Alcala 2000). Surprisingly, records are lacking from encountered (Alcala 1986; CES personal observation). In the
the Zamboanga peninsula (western Mindanao; McGuire & past 5 years of our herpetological surveys in the country, we
Alcala 2000). We observed the species in both secondary encountered the species only twice, on Palawan and Leyte,
growth forest and cultivated area (coconut plantation). One with a few specimens from each locality (Supsup et al. unpub-
individual was encountered while it was in the process of lished). The observation in the MHR is our third encounter
burying its eggs (4 pieces) in the sand along a riverbank. Its of the species. We observed A. boa on a tree branch ca. 3 m
high, in secondary growth forest. The species present status
current conservation status is Least Concern (IUCN 2016) and
is Least Concern (IUCN 2016), and we might recommend
we conform to this assessment because it is common and abun-
to reassess its conservation status given its apparent rarity.
dant in our experience. Observed individuals had the follow-
However, since it is a snail-eating species, its activity pattern
ing characters: snout–vent length of matured female 76 mm,
involves active hunting exclusively following rain. Thus, we
juvenile 26 mm; tail often three or four times the snout–vent
suspect that despite of wide distribution, the species is really
length; a thorn-like supraciliary scale is present; scales in both
only detected by biologists on nights immediately following
body and arms are strongly keeled; tympanum slightly large;
heavy rains. As such this species activity pattern involves a
dorsal life-color gray from head to tail, with black or brown
strong negative detection bias unless trained herpetologists
blotches; white ventral surface with small brown blotches;
target it under appropriate atmospheric conditions. Caught
patagial color is chartreuse-green boarded by black or brown.
individual had the following characters: snout-vent length 450
Photo voucher: KUDA 012511–13.
mm; 8 upper labials; 11 lower labials; 2 loreals present; head
is short and distinct from neck; blunt snout; large eye; slender
Eutropis cf. indeprensa (Brown & Alcala, 1980) and compressed body; smooth scales; dorsal life-color brown;
Figure 4b ventral is cream with irregular brown blotches; cream labials,
This ground dwelling lizard is found on most of the major with yellowish-brown patch beneath the eye. Photo voucher:
islands of the Philippines (Brown & Alcala 1980; Gaulke KUDA 012521.
2013; Barley et al. 2013). We observed individuals on fallen
trees and under leaf litter, in secondary growth forest. The Boiga cynodon (Boie, 1827)
conservation status of the species is not presently available. Figure 5c
Following the IUCN category, we recommend the species sta- This non-endemic snake is common and widespread
tus as Least Concern (IUCN 2016) because they are common throughout Southeast Asia. The Philippine population occurs
and abundant in localities where they have been recorded, and in almost all major islands (Alcala 1986; Gaulke 2011). We
the species has a wide distribution (Gaulke 2011; Barley et encountered the species in secondary growth forest, attempt-
al. 2013). The juvenile observed has the following characters: ing to eat a species of bat trapped in a mist net. Its current con-
snout-vent length 30 mm; 6 upper and 6 lower labials (5th is servation status is Least Concern (IUCN 2016). The individual
large and beneath the eye); tail 3 times the snout–vent length; caught has the following characters: snout–vent length 1201
slender body; blunt snout; life-color brown, with a dark brown mm; 1 preocular; 2 postoculars; 8 upper labials; loreal present;
band extending from eye region to vent. Photo voucher: head distinct from neck; snout short; smooth scales; in life,
KUDA 012514. dorsal color is brown with yellow crossbars-like boarded by
black; a black strip is present from the eye to the angle of jaw.
Reptilia (snakes) Photo voucher: KUDA 012522.

Ahaetulla prasina preocularis (Taylor, 1922c) Cyclocorus nuchalis taylori Leviton, 1967b
Figure 5a Figure 6
This endemic subspecies of Ahaetulla prasina is common Clycocorus nuchalis has 2 recognized subspecies: C. n.
and widely distributed throughout the Philippines (Leviton nuchalis and C. n. taylori (Leviton, 1967b). These subspecies
1967a; Alcala 1986). We encountered an individual on a are both found on Mindanao, C. n. taylori distributed mostly
tree branch, in secondary growth forest adjacent to a coconut on the east while C. n. nuchalis on the west. We found this spe-
plantation. Brown et al. (2012) assessed this species as Least cies crawling under leaf litter along a riverbank, in secondary
Concern (IUCN 2016). The encountered individual has the growth forest. The species conservation status is listed pres-

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

A B

C D

E F

G H
Figure 5. Species of snakes. A. Ahaetulla prasina preocularis. B. Aplopeltura boa. C. Boiga cynodon. D. Dendrelaphis marenae. E. Gonyosoma oxyceph-
alum. F. Ramphotyphops cumingii. G. Tropidonophis dendrophiops. H. Oxyrhabdium modestum. Photos by C. Supsup.

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

Ramphotyphlops cumingii (Gray, 1845)

Figure 5f
This unique arboreal blind snake is an endemic species,
occurring throughout the Philippines. Although widespread,
the species is rare and difficult to find. Only few specimens
are available in collections (Diesmos & Brown 2009b). We
observed this species during our daytime survey in secondary
growth forest while searching a dead standing tree, ca. 1.5 m
high. The species was also recently reported on Cebu, where
it was found on a tree branch (Supsup et al. 2016). The species
conservation status is Data Deficient (IUCN 2016). We recom-
mend the maintenance of its present status because, so little is
known about its population biology and extent of occurrence.
The individual observed has the following characters: snout–
Figure 6. Cyclocorus nuchalis taylori. Photo by C. Supsup. vent length 325 mm; head round, not distinct from neck; tip
of the tail has a pointed needle-like part; smooth scales; life-
ently as Least Concern (IUCN 2016). The individual caught color is light brown. Photo voucher: KUDA 012517.
has the following characters: snout–vent length 281 mm; 2
preoculars; 2 postoculars; 8 upper labials (3rd, 4th and 5th Tropidonophis dendrophiops (Günther, 1883)
bordering the eye); life-color is brown, with few white spots Figure 5g
on dorsal surface (mostly in mid-body); cream ventral with This semi-aquatic snake is distributed throughout the
dark brown triangle blotches. Photo voucher: KUDA 012523. Philippines (Leviton 1963; Alcala 1986). We observed this
species during our daytime survey on a small dried stream,
Dendrelaphis marenae Vogel & Van Rooijen, 2008 in secondary growth forest located near a Mahogany (Swiete-
Figure 5d nia macrophylla) plantation. The species was first observed
This snake occurs throughout the Philippines and on crawling among rocks, after which it rapidly retreated under
Suluwesi (Leviton 1968; Vogel & Rooijen 2008). It can be a dead log. The species conservation status is Least Concern
found in a variety of habitats, from cultivated to forested areas (IUCN 2016). Observed individual has the following charac-
(Brown et al. 2012, 2013). We observed the species actively ters: snout–vent length 425 mm; 2 preoculars (upper is nearly
coiled on a tree branch, in secondary growth forest adjacent reaching the surface of the head); 3 postoculars; 9 upper labi-
als; 10 lower labials; loreal present; head distinct from neck;
to a coconut plantation. Based on recent conservation status
eyes are large; life-color brown on the head, dorsum greenish-
assessment done by Brown et al. (2012), the species is classi-
black from neck to mid-body and turning black toward the
fied as Least Concern (IUCN 2016). Caught individual has the
tail, yellowish labials, venter yellowish with black blotches.
following characters: snout–vent length 457 mm; 2 preoculars;
Photo voucher: KUDA 012518–19.
3 postculars; 9 upper labials (5th and 6th are beneath the center
of the eye); loreal present; head distinct from neck; relatively
Oxyrhabdium modestum (Duméril, 1853)
large eyes; smooth scales; life-color, yellowish-bronze, yellow
Figure 5h
labials, bronze dorsal, emerald-green venter; a black strip is
Oxyrhabdium modestum has been recorded mostly on Min-
present extending from loreal to the body, but fading progres-
danao PAIC (Leviton 1965; Alcala 1986). The records from
sively. Photo voucher: KUDA 012524.
Calamianes, Negros and Luzon are doubtful (Leviton 1965;
Wallach et al. 2015). We observed the species in secondary
Gonyosoma oxycephalum (Boie, 1827) growth forest near the river. Its current conservation status is
Figure 5e Least Concern (IUCN 2016). The individual we observed has
This arboreal snake is a widespread species, found through- the following characters: snout–vent length 435 mm; 1 preocu-
out Southeast Asia. It is known to occur in almost all major lar; 1 postocular; 8 upper labials; loreal present; head slightly
islands of the Philippines (Alcala 1986). In recent years, there distinct from neck; pointed snout; smooth scales; dorsal life
have been increasing reports on new distribution records for color brown, becoming yellowish-brown towards the sides;
the species (Ferner et al. 2000; Gaulke 2011). We observed yellowish labials and throat; beige venter. Photo voucher:
this species in secondary growth forest. Its present conser- KUDA 012516.
vation status is Least Concern (IUCN 2016). The individual
caught has the following characters: snout–vent length 1100 Doubtful or misidentified species
mm; 1 preocular; 2 postoculars; 8 upper labials; loreal pres- Parvoscincus beyeri (Taylor, 1922a) and Oxyrhabdium
ent; head distinct from head; pointed snout; scales smooth, leporinum (Günther, 1858): these two species were reported
but slightly keeled; in life color, dorsal surface is green and by Relox et al. (2011) as new records from MHR. However,
progressively becomes yellowish-green towards the sides; we are in doubt of these records and propose the removal of
bright yellowish-green labials; half of the scale on tail is gray these species from the mountain’s faunal list. Parvoscincus
and beige on the keeled part. Photo voucher: KUDA 012515. beyeri is known only from Luzon Island (Alcala 1986;

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

Brown & Alcala 1980; Brown et al. 1995, 2010). Relox et tive impact on the populations, but a further study is needed
al. probably misidentified the species. We believe that their to establish robust evidence or to determine which species are
specimen should be identified as Sphenomorphus diwata. affected by habitat changes. For instance, in recent surveys
These two closely related species could be misidentified if not on Leyte and Sibuyan islands (Mallari et al. 2013a, 2013b,
carefully examined, because they have similar morphological 2014), amphibian and reptile species were observed to have
characters, for example, scale numbers, body size, lamellae, varying niche position (habitat preference) and niche width
tympanum (Brown & Alcala 1980; Linkem et al. 2011). (level of tolerance). Some species appear to be associated with
Oxyrhabdium leporinum presently has 2 recognized subspe- pristine forest habitats, seemingly intolerant of disturbance;
cies: O. l. leporinum which is restricted to Luzon PAIC and others appear to tolerate moderate levels of disturbance quite
O. l. visayanum occurring only on Visayan PAIC (Alcala well. This suggests that forest clearings may be beneficial to
1986; Leviton 1964). To the best of our knowledge, there are some species (i.e., “edge species” or open-area taxa like frogs
no available records of O. leporinum from Mindanao yet. typically encountered in rice fields), but possibly also that for-
Although Relox et al. (2011) reported their specimens of P. est clearings may negatively affect species from forests. Such
beyeri and O. leporinum were deposited at the University of the information is crucial to inform conservation management;
Philippines in Mindanao, we were not able to examine them, these kinds of data can only be made available through ana-
because the authors did not provide any accession numbers lyzing actual data collected from the field.
and we could not locate the specimens. The authors also did Only a few studies relating to habitat preference of amphib-
not provide other evidence for the species identification, such ians and reptiles in the Philippines exist, most of which are
as photographs and information on morphological characters only descriptions of habitats where the specimens were col-
in their report. If these doubtful species are in fact occurring lected (Brown et al. 2001). Species habitat preference, micro-
on Mindanao, specimens from Mt. Hamiguitan must be pro- habitats in particular, are important to amphibians and reptiles
vided and examined thoroughly to confirm their occurrence. (Brown et al. 2012, 2013b), yet these are often neglected or
overlooked in most protected areas in the Philippines, being
absent or not even considered in management plans (Supsup
DISCUSSION
2014; Fauna & Flora International Philippines unpublished
Despite several surveys conducted in the past few years (Deli- data). The species habitat characterizations we provided
ma et al. 2007; Relox et al. 2011), herpetofaunal diversity of here are preliminary, but provide a general initial view of the
the MHR has remained underestimated. Although we sur- habitats utilized by recorded species. Important habitats we
veyed only one locality, in which natural habitats are already observed that are critical to species survival include riparian
degraded and most sampling plots were positioned in small vegetation, leaf litter, tree stumps, dead logs, fallen trees, tree
patches of secondary growth forests, we added a significant foliage, swamps, and creeks, all of which are found in for-
number of species (nearly 30%) to the total list for the MHR. ested areas. Our observations are consistent with those from
This includes a rarely seen species of blind snake, Rampho- other studies (Ferner et al. 2000; Brown et al. 2001, 2012,
typhlops cumingii, and a possible new species of frog in the 2013b; Mcleod et al. 2011; Siler et al. 2011, 2012; Gaulke
genus Platymantis. Our survey contributes to documented 2011; Devan-Song & Brown 2012; Plaza & Sanguila 2015;
species distributions and information on habitat preferences, Siler et al. 2016), emphasizing how these habitats are among
and may help refining conservation status assessments. These the highest priority for research and conservation value.
data are vital in designing or implementing conservation Some species we recorded are in need of immediate reas-
planning (Margules & Pressey 2000). However, a lack of sessment of their conservation status. However, as emphasized
information related to these topics could hinder effective by Brown et al. (2012), conservation status of species cannot
conservation (Brown et al. 2001, 2013a; Diesmos & Brown solely be based on single visit of a site, extent of occurrence,
2009a). Most of our newly recorded species are distributed or secondarily inferred degree of disturbance (e.g., fragmenta-
widely throughout the Philippines. However, our observa- tion inferred from aerial measurements of forest cover; IUCN
tions suggest that they may occur at low population densities, 2016). Repeated surveys in different seasons or times per year,
except by Draco cyanopterus and Eutropis cf. indeprensa. focusing on variety of habitats, and systematic analysis of
The low population density could be attributed to relatively natural populations are necessary to determine if the species
dry conditions of our site during the survey. As documented in populations are increasing or declining. If these data are not
previous studies (Alcala & Brown 1998; Brown et al. 2001, available, assessment of species conservation status will be of
2012; Alcala et al. 2012), many species are more active dur- limited value, incomplete, or much worse, providing incorrect
ing the rainy season, especially amphibians (and snakes that information, which can mislead conservation planning (e.g.,
feed on them and/or other humid forest prey items). A follow- the case of Platymantis polillensis in the Philippines; Siler et
up study conducted at the onset of the rainy season should be al. 2011; Brown et al. 2012, 2013b).
conducted, targeting in particular the same small pockets of Our study highlights how a single survey is insufficient to
remaining forests that we surveyed in the dry season. Such determine the species presence or absence in any given site.
an approach will likely uncover additional and possible new In recent work of Siler et al. (2011) in Aurora Province, the
undocumented species. authors demonstrated that a single survey is not sufficient to
Alternatively, we suspect that habitat disturbance observed assess the species diversity of an area (Brown et al. 2000;
in the area brought by forest clearing is likely having a nega- Siler et al., 2011). In these and several other studies, authors

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 Supsup et al.  |  Amphibians and reptiles from the Hamiguitan Range: new distribution records

nearly doubled species diversity for a given site with subse- Boettger, O. 1893. Drei neue Wasserfrösche (Rana) von den
quent survey efforts (Brown et al. 2000, 2012, 2013b; Siler Philippinen. Zoologischer Anzeiger 16: 363–366.
et al. 2011). Boulenger, G.A. 1882. Catalogue of the Batrachia Salientia, s.
Ecaudata in the collection of the British Museum, 2nd edition.
Despite repeated, follow-up surveys at various sites in the
London: British Museum. 503 pp.
MHR, the area’s herpetofauna remains poorly understood. We Boulenger, G.A. 1895. Second report on additions to the lizard
urge future field researchers focusing on this region to revisit collection in the Natural History Museum. Proceedings of the
and resample (during variable atmospheric conditions) the Zoological Society of London 1894: 722–736.
area studied here. No classically characterized Mindanao sites Boulenger, G.A. 1887. Descriptions of new reptiles and batrachians
(Taylor 1921, 1922b, 1922c) have been the focus of temporally in the British Museum (Natural History). — Part III. Annals and
variable resurvey efforts. Understanding how Mindanao’s Magazine of Natural History 20: 50–53.
Brown, R. M., C. H. Oliveros, C. D. Siler, J. B. Fernandez,
diverse amphibian and reptile communities (Taylor 1921,
L. J. Welton, P. A. C. Buenavente, M. L. D. Diesmos, & A.
1922b, 1922c, 1966) respond to environmental perturbations is C. Diesmos. 2012. Amphibians and Reptiles of Luzon Island
a subject of deeply important environmental and conservation (Philippines), VII: Herpetofauna of Ilocos Norte Province,
concern and a challenge for future generations. Northern Cordillera Mountain Range. Check List 8: 469–490.
https://doi.org/10.15560/8.3.469
Brown, R. M., C D. Siler, C. H. Oliveros, J. A. Esselstyn, A. C.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Diesmos, P. A. Hosner, C. W. Linkem, A. J. Barley, J. R. Oaks,
Our survey in the Mt. Hamiguitan Range was conducted for M. B. Sanguila, L. J. Welton, D. S. Blackburn, R. G. Moyle,
the Biodiversity Partnerships Project (BPP) of Biodiversity A. T. Peterson, & A. C. Alcala. 2013a. Evolutionary processes
of diversification in a model island archipelago. Annual Review
Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and
of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics 44: 411–435. https://doi.
Natural Resources (DENR-BMB Manila). Project funding org/10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-110411-160323
was provided by United Nations Development Programme. Brown, R.M., C.D. Siler, C.H. Oliveros, L.J. Welton, A. Rock,
Study permit (Wildlife Gratuitous Permit No. XI-2014-13) was J. Swab, M. van Weerd, J. Beijnen, E. Jose, D. Rodriquez,
issued by DENR Region 11. We thank Philippine Eagle Foun- E. Jose & A.C. Diesmos. 2013b. The amphibians and reptiles of
dation and the local government units of Governor Generoso Luzon Island, Philippines, VIII: the herpetofauna of Cagayan
for providing logistical support. We thank BPP’s project man- and Isabela Provinces, northern Sierra Madre Mountain Range.
ZooKeys 266: 1–120. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.266.3982
agement unit, particularly J. Regunay, J. Reyes-Eugenio and
Brown, R. M. & A. C. Diesmos. 2009. Philippines, Biology; pp.
B. Viloria for the administrative support. We are grateful to 723–732, in: R. Gillespie & D. Clague (eds.). Encyclopedia of
our colleagues who joined and assisted us during the survey, Islands. Berkeley: University of California Press.
particularly D. Tablazon, J. Masigan, J. Pales, J. Wenceslao, Brown, R.M., A. C. Diesmos & A. C. Alcala. 2001. The state of
C. Jasmin, J. Cantil, S. Padin, R. Venturillo and N. Baron. Philippine herpetology and the challenges for the next decade.
We also thank E. M. Agoo for identifying some plant species Siliman Journal 42: 18–87.
from the study site. For critical review of early versions of the Brown, R.M., J.A. McGuire, J.W. Ferner, N. Icarangal, &
R.S. Kennedy. 2000. Amphibians and reptiles of Luzon Island,
manuscript and constant source of inspiration and encourage-
II: preliminary report on the herpetofauna of Aurora Memorial
ment, we offer our thanks to R. Brown, A. Diesmos and N. A. National Park, Philippines. Hamadryad-Madras 25: 175–195.
Mallari. Brown, R.M., C.D. Siler, A.C. Diesmos & A.C. Alcala.
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