IS LEGAL PROTECTION OF REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS IN THE CAPE PROVINCE CONTRIBUTING TO THEIR CONSERVATION?

Abstract

The comprehensive legal protection of the Cape Province's herpetofauna is evaluated in terms of its benefit to the conservation of species which have or may be become threatened. An analysis of herpetofauna in captivity indicates that protection strategies serve a purpose. It is concluded that the conservation of some taxonomic groups has benefitted from strict protection. More emphasis should be placed on habitat conservation and more research into the life history of lesser-known taxa is required.