Successful Removal of Water Lizard from Primary School: An Unforgettable Adventure
Introduction:
In an unforgettable incident that took place at SD Negeri 63 Surabaya, Lubuk Basung District, Agam Regency, a water lizard, scientifically known as Varanus Savior, was found lurking on the premises. Responding quickly to this situation, officials from the Maninjau BKSDA West Sumatra Region II Conservation Resort successfully evacuated the reptile on October 5, 2023. Here is an account of the astonishing event and some frequently asked questions regarding this species.
The Evacuation Process:
Upon receiving the report, the head of the West Sumatra BKSDA Conservation Resort Area 2, Rusdian P Ritonga, swiftly organized a team to handle the situation. The monitor lizard, measuring approximately 1.5 meters in length, was carefully removed from the school premises on the same day. Collaborating with the City Child Patrol (Pagari), BKSDA and PAGARI released the male monitor lizard back into its natural habitat.
Conservation Efforts:
The conservation initiatives undertaken by BKSDA and PAGARI were a direct response to the report filed by students of SD Negeri 63 Surabaya. The location of the primary school, which is situated just 10 meters away from the Maninjau Zone II Conservation Resort Office, facilitated a swift response by the authorities. To ensure the lizard’s well-being, it was promptly released into the wild, allowing it to thrive in its natural ecosystem.
The Water Lizard: A Common Sight:
Rusdiyan P. Ritonga highlighted that the water lizard (Varanus Savior) is widely distributed in South Asia and Southeast Asia. These wild monitor lizards are frequently observed in various regions of Indonesia, often in close proximity to human settlements. It is noteworthy, however, that despite its prevalence, Varanus Savior does not currently hold a secure status in Indonesia. It is not listed in the Minister of Environment and Forest Regulation No. P.106 of 2018, rendering it unprotected by Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What species of lizard was removed from the primary school?
A: The lizard that was successfully removed from the primary school is a water lizard, scientifically known as Varanus Savior.
Q2: How long was the lizard?
A: The lizard measured approximately 1.5 meters in length.
Q3: Who was responsible for removing the lizard?
A: The Maninjau BKSDA West Sumatra Region II Conservation Resort officials, in collaboration with members of the City Child Patrol (Pagari), were responsible for the successful removal of the lizard.
Q4: What conservation efforts were taken?
A: The monitor lizard was quickly released back into its natural habitat after being captured to ensure it could continue to thrive in its wild environment.
Q5: Are water lizards commonly found in Indonesia?
A: Yes, water lizards, including Varanus Savior, are frequently found in different regions of Indonesia and may be observed near human settlements.
Q6: Are water lizards protected by law in Indonesia?
A: Unfortunately, water lizards do not have a secure status in Indonesia and are not protected by Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Ecosystems.
Conclusion:
The successful removal of the water lizard from SD Negeri 63 Surabaya highlights the importance of prompt action by responsible authorities. The collaborative efforts of the Maninjau BKSDA West Sumatra Region II Conservation Resort and the City Child Patrol (Pagari) ensured the safe return of the lizard to its natural habitat. While water lizards continue to be a common sight in Indonesia, ongoing efforts are necessary to protect and preserve this species and its natural environment.
