THE SNAKE FAUNA OF ETHIOPIA—A PRELIMINARY REPORT

Abstract

Ethiopia is a known centre of endemism for birds and small mammals, but herpetologically remains poorly known. The major geographic regions and their vegetation are introduced. Eighty two snake species (unlisted) are currently known from the country. and are allocated to seven faunal groups; i.e. Pan-African savannah/steppe, Saharo-Sindian, North-east African steppe. West-central-east African, South-east African. Somali/Djibouti north-eastern Kenya/eastern Ethiopia endemics, and Ethiopian endemics.