Barnabé Sossa^1,, Stanislas Zanvo², Romaël B. Badou³, Nathalie Kpera⁴, Georges Nobime², Achille Assogbadjo², Chabi A.M.S. Djagoun²

Although Benin is known as one of the most prolific exporting countries of python and where the two native species are highly traded for local consumption and traditional medicine, their conservation remains uncertain in the country. This study used a LEK-based survey with hunters in 224 villages and occurrence data from Global Biodiversity Information Facility database to delineate the spatial density distribution, habitat correlation and climatic influences in Python regius and Python sebae across Benin. The two species showed wide distributions extending across central Benin, with higher densities in the south. Analysis of the size of the occurrence area revealed that Python sebae had relatively the largest range (39,415.67 km²). Density estimates and multiple correspondence analysis in the occurrence areas indicated a relatively high probability of encountering multiple individuals within a single 1 km² grid and a preference of open habitats by the two species. A downward trend in species abundance was observed, highlighting potential conservation concerns. Generalised linear model analysis indicated that rainfall and temperature significantly influenced the presence of Python regius and Python sebae. These results underline the need for targeted conservation strategies to reverse the declining trends for long-term and effective conservation of these pythons in Benin.

Reptiles, Benin, occurrence, climatic influences