Aboriginal-constructed lizard traps on Western Australia’s south coast create reptile habitat and teach principles of granite outcrop conservation

Context Granite outcrops of the Southwest Australian Floristic Region are places of cultural and ecological significance that are at risk from human disturbance. Lizard traps are propped-up rock slabs on granite outcrops, constructed by Aboriginal peoples to create habitat for and to catch reptiles. Despite the cultural importance of traps, public awareness remains low, and they are at risk from destruction and removal. Lizard traps are likely ecologically important, but data supporting this have yet to be published. Aims We aimed to; (1) clarify the ecological role of lizard traps on Western Australia’s south coast; (2) address the hypothesis that lizard traps provide reptile habitat; and (3) explore what lizard traps teach us about conservation of granites. Methods Directed by Merningar Elder Lynette Knapp, and focused around Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, we used time-lapse cameras to undertake a cross-cultural investigation into the ecological role of lizard traps. Key results We found at least seven reptile groups use lizard traps on Western Australia’s south coast for activities including thermoregulation and shelter. Reptile presence was observed at 60% of lizard traps over 1 day. We found no difference between natural exfoliation (known reptile habitat) and lizard traps in reptile occurrence, diversity, duration of presence, and thermal complexity. Elder Lynette Knapp shares that lizard traps were created for human survival, and they teach us that caring for granite Country involves minimising disturbance, deep knowledge of the landscape, and multi-generational thinking. Conclusions First Nations-constructed lizard traps create reptile habitat as a key principle of caring for granite Country. Implications Lizard traps are culturally and ecologically important features of granite outcrops that need greater recognition and protection.