Reptiles as a food resource

Reptiles are well suited for management as a food resource because of their low energy requirements and high reproductive rates. Worldwide exploitation of reptiles for food is surveyed, synthesizing information on the subsistence and commercial use of turtles, crocodilians, snakes, and lizards. Few examples of managed harvests for reptiles can be found that are culturally and economically viable or biologically sustainable. New emphasis on establishment of sustainable use programs for these species is advocated, given the economic value of reptiles as protein sources.