Urbanisation and reptile population distribution in Malta : citizen awareness for measurement, protection, and conservation

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to observe the geography of reptile species population in Malta through citizen awareness, and investigate whether degrees of urbanisation support increasing populations. The study integrates concepts from human geography, conservation biology, and ecology. Using a mixed method approach, the research aims to understand how urban environments influence reptile populations by engaging with citizens from three distinct localities, each reflecting a different degree of urbanisation and rurality. A questionnaire survey was distributed in the localities of Birkirkara, Mosta and Mellieħa. Interviews with experts complement the research on issues of conservation. The study focuses on eight species of Maltese herpetofauna and the factors that influence their distribution across the main island of Malta by analysing correlations between variables collected in the questionnaire survey. Relationships between degree of urbanisation, education, fear, presence of cats, and public awareness of species and protection laws present useful results to provide some recommendations for the monitoring and measurement of species necessary to conserve and protect these reptiles. The findings highlight the importance of citizen awareness and involvement for the implementation of conservation measures for and protection of local herpetofauna.