Global News - January 2008

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Rare lizard trading exposed in India

Tue 29 January 2008 13:30 UK — Asia,Reptiles

Trading in rare and protected lizards for use by restaurants has been exposed by Indian police.

Officials in the west of the country raided a series of roadside restaurants, also known as dhabas, seizing 16 Indian common monitor lizards, nine of which were dead.

The New India Press reported that the animal's popularity was driven by a belief that their meat is an aphrodisiac, offers superhuman powers and also cures medical complaints.

Local policeman KSN Chikkerur told the newspaper that the lizards were caught and killed by locals before being sold on to restaurateurs.

"Hakki Pikki tribals catch the lizards and sell them to hoteliers, which is later sold as a special dish to special customers," he said. "Sunday is a busy day for these dhaba owners as their demand increases.

"This is the first time these lizards have been seized. Earlier a large number of Agra and Spiny Tailed Lizards were seized."

According to the New India Press, officials believe peacock, deer and hare meat may have also been sold illegally to restaurants.

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