From Amphibians to Mammals: Terrestrial Vertebrates of West Azerbaijan Province, Biodiversity, and Threats

This study presents the first comprehensive checklist of terrestrial vertebrates in West Azerbaijan Province, situated in northwestern Iran, bordering Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iraq. The objective was to compile a complete inventory of terrestrial vertebrate species within the region. Data were synthesized from national and international scientific literature, including peer-reviewed articles, books, and checklists, supplemented by field observations conducted by the authors and records from the Department of Environment. The results document 435 terrestrial vertebrate species, comprising 316 birds, 66 mammals, 46 reptiles, and 7 amphibian species. Notably, three mammal species—Apodemus mystacinus (Eastern broad-toothed field mouse), Microtus obscurus (Altai vole), and M. qazvinensis (Qazvin vole)—and two bird species—Oenanthe xanthoprymna (Kurdish Wheatear) and Clamator glandarius (Great Spotted Cuckoo)—are reported for the first time in the province. A supplementary table provides the complete species list, including Persian and scientific names, global IUCN Red List status, and taxonomic classification. Approximately 12% of the province’s terrestrial vertebrate species are classified under IUCN Red List categories indicating conservation concern. The study highlights key regional biodiversity threats, including climate change, anthropogenic activities, and human-wildlife conflicts. Given West Azerbaijan’s position within the Irano-Anatolian biodiversity hotspot, enhanced monitoring through extensive field surveys and genetic studies is recommended. These findings establish a critical baseline for future research on species composition, biodiversity hotspot identification, and effective habitat management strategies in the province.