Reptiles found in western Sydney
The reptile population of western Sydney has undergone extensive change since European settlement. According to the 1995-96 Western Sydney Urban Bushland Survey, many species have declined in numbers while others still exist in greater numbers and are frequently encountered. What remains of western Sydney's reptile population hints at the previously rich biodiversity prior to land clearing and the impact of human activity. A number of the species that remain have adapted to the artificial habitats that have evolved in much of western Sydney.
Large species, such as goannas and some snakes, which require large home ranges up to several hectares, cannot survive in small isolated patches of bushland. These larger species of reptiles also tend to have naturally lower numbers of individuals and are therefore even more prone to have declining numbers where there is not suitable habitat.
At least 53 species of native reptiles are known in western Sydney from the survey. The red-bellied black snake and the eastern brown snake were the most frequently encountered snakes during the survey. Two of the species, the broad-headed snake and the heath monitor, are listed on the Threatened Species Conservation Act.
Page last updated: 27 February 2011
