Meester, Jurgens Anthonie Jansen.De Waal, Schalk Willem Petrus.2014-09-192014-09-1919771977http://hdl.handle.net/10413/11237Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1977.This study deals with the three orders of Squamata (Sauria, Amphisbaenia, Serpentes) of the Orange Free State, South Africa. Following an intensive systematic survey 4 492 specimens have been examined comprising 77 different species and subspecies of which 25% represent new records for the study area. Variation in taxonomically important characters as well as informa- tion on colour, size, habitat, breeding, predators and diet are discussed. Certain taxonomic changes have been made. Distribution maps have been compiled on the basis of eighth-degree-units. Distributional patterns have been analyzed to establish areas of relative homogeneity separated by transitional zones. A causal analysis of the main distribution patterns of the O.F.S. Squamata indicated that rainfall is the major environmental factor influencing distribution. A comparative analysis of the squamate areas has been done with regard to various biogeographic phenomena.en-ZASquamata--Orange Free State.Snakes--Orange Free State.Lizards--Orange Free State.Theses--Zoology.Thesis