Ecology and Microhabitat Patterns of Varanus bengalensis in Semi-Arid Grasslands of Solapur and Dharashiv Districts, Maharashtra, India

The Bengal monitor lizard (Varanus bengalensis) is a large-bodied, wide-ranging squamate that plays an important ecological role in semi-arid ecosystems. Very few ecological studies from India have examined its detailed ecology and microhabitat use. Our study has attempted to investigate the patterns of microhabitat use, spatial occupancy, and temporal variation in sighting frequency of V. bengalensis in a semi-arid grassland patch from Solapur and Dharashiv Districts. The study was conducted over two years (June 2020–May 2022) using visual encounter surveys across a 10 km² area. A total of 68 sighting records representing juveniles, sub-adults, and adults were documented and analyzed as independent ecological observations reflecting habitat use rather than individual population counts. Termite mounds accounted for the highest proportion of sightings (68%), followed by rock piles (19%), cobbles (6%), rocky patches and burrows (3% each), and wells (1%) as far as microhabitat usage is concerned. A Statistically significant difference in microhabitat use among life stages was detected (one-way ANOVA, F₅, ₁₂ = 4.16, p = 0.020), indicating life-stage-specific habitat associations. The appearance of juveniles coincided with the onset of the monsoon season, indicating considerable temporal pattern. Sighting frequency showed weak to moderate positive association with environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall. Habitat variables such as termite mounds, rock piles and open rocky-grassy mosaic were found to serve as critical refuges that supported life history stages of V. bengalensis. Our study highlights the conservation significance of remaining large moderately disturbed grassland habitats (Semi-Arid Open Natural Ecosystem) outside the protected area that support threatened and critically endangered species and offer livelihood to traditional grazing community.