Abstract
Neotropical snake assemblages show high complexity and diversity. The Atlantic Forest is one of the biodiversity hotspots and has high levels of endemism. Over 150 snake species are currently known in the Atlantic Forest, but there are still many poorly studied areas. Thus, studies that provide information on the native fauna of these forests are of great importance for conservation. The fieldwork of this project was carried out between April, 2013 and March, 2014 at the Etá Farm (24.30264 S, 047.96106 W), located in Sete Barras municipality, São Paulo State, southeastern Brazil. We made 2-week samplings monthly during 12 months. The following sampling methods were used: (1) pitfall and funnel traps; (2) time constrained search; (3) sampling by other people, and (4) accidental encounters during other activities. We found 17 species (4 families, 14 genera) of snakes in the study area. We collected and preserved more than 10 specimens per species, which are deposited in the Museum of Zoology of the University of São Paulo. For all the snakes collected, we obtained data on size, abundance, habitat and substrate use, daily and seasonal activity, defense behavior, diet, and reproduction. (AU)
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