Moscow Red Book Updates Species Status After Rare Find
In the first phase, scientists analyzed data collected from 2023 to 2026 and proposed revising rarity categories for several species of amphibians and reptiles.
Consensus
- Scientists from the Institute of Ecology and Evolution named after A.N. Severtsov are updating the reptile and amphibian sections of the Moscow Red Book.
- The fourth edition of the Moscow Red Book is scheduled for release in 2030.
- The work is being conducted under the direction of Moscow's Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection.
- Six reptile and eight amphibian species are currently listed in the book.
- Most of these populations require special conservation measures, including long-term monitoring, invasive species control, and protection of natural water bodies for breeding.
- The first phase of the project analyzed data from 2023 to 2026 and proposed re-evaluating the conservation status of several species.
- The Colchian slow worm (Anguis colchica) was confirmed in 2025 in the Moscow part of Losiny Ostrov National Park, where it was previously believed to be extinct.
- The Colchian slow worm is proposed to be reclassified from category 0 ('extinct') to category 1 ('threatened with extinction').
- The second phase of the work will continue until the end of 2026.
- Researchers will analyze field data, new scientific publications, and open citizen science databases to update knowledge on the distribution and status of rare herpetofauna in Moscow.
- The ordinary snake (Natrix natrix) is included in the preliminary list for status change due to population recovery.
- The sharp-nosed frog (Rana arvalis) is under consideration for increased protection measures.
Points of divergence
- Scientists do not exclude the possibility of discovering new populations of the Colchian slow worm in the Troitskoye and Novomoskovskoye administrative districts. — vm
- Scientists do not exclude the possibility of finding new populations of the Colchian slow worm in TиNAO (Tropics and New Moscow). — m24
- A large harrier (a bird of prey from the Russian Red Book) was discovered in Losiny Ostrov National Park in the Weitzevskoye wetland area. — m24
Coverage (2 sources)
- Scientists will update information on reptiles and amphibians of the Moscow Red Book — Вечерняя Москва
- Red Book of Moscow will review the rarity category of the adder and the rough-skinned newt — Москва 24