In today's post one of our Animal Care Interns, Lia Blondo, talks all about Herpetology!
In the muddied wetlands and grassy forest areas of Michigan and beyond, there is a little known hobby enjoyed by the few and the brave. “Herping”, as it is named, is the act of searching for native reptiles and amphibians in their natural environments. “Herping” comes from the term “herpetology” or the study of reptiles and amphibians. Because these critters can often be the masters of camouflage, the activity can also be described as a new twist to Hide ‘N Seek. Herping provides reptile and amphibian enthusiasts a chance to observe the animals in their own environments, in a non-invasive manner. However, the skill of the player is tested by their ability to locate various reptiles and amphibians using habitat clues. It is quite challenging to find an animal that has not yet spotted you!
Here in Michigan, we are lucky to host a variety of snakes, turtles, frogs, toads and salamanders. There are common species, and then not-so-common species that are considered a rare find in the state. In 2004, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recognized that there was a lack of statewide data regarding the numbers and locations of native reptiles and amphibians. In response to this, the Michigan Herp Atlas was created to provide a system of tracking. There are over 4,300 records to search for information on species location and number with new sightings being listed weekly. The Michigan Herp Atlas provides a useful tool for amateurs and experts alike in discovering reptile and amphibian species that may be close to their hometown.
On your own herping experience, you may be most apt to find a wandering frog or toad. You can tell the difference between the two by examining the skin. Is it thicker and more warty? Are the back legs shorter and more suited for hopping, rather than leaping? If yes, you probably have discovered a toad. Look for frogs and toads near water sources, or damp habitats. Often, they will nestle themselves into moist soils. In the spring, you may happen upon juvenile frogs in a pond or “vernal pool”, a depression that fills with runoff water in the spring and dries up in the summer. These young frogs are called “tadpoles” and have not yet acquired the physical characteristics needed to live on land! As they grow, they will develop physical traits that allow them to make the move out of the water in a process called “metamorphosis” (“Amphibian” means two lives – in and out of the water!) Michigan has ten documented species of frogs and two toads. Fenner Nature Center calls home to a Gray Tree Frog and Eastern American Toad.
As you are scanning your eyes over a pond, you may spot a turtle basking on a floating log! There are about ten known species of turtles in Michigan, but that certainly does not mean they are uncommon. Most enjoy living in a pond or wetland area, but will move to upland and sandy areas to feed or breed. Look for certain markings on the turtle’s neck or shell to determine the species you are observing. A reptile and amphibian field guide is useful to carry to help you distinguish the animal, or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources provides lots of information and pictures of native species. Say hello to Ruby, Fenner Nature Center’s Eastern Box Turtle, and a big character around here at the Visitor Center!
Ruby loves snacking on fruits, veggies, and sometimes even worms!
While you are venturing around a wetland or pond area, be on the lookout for salamanders or newts. We have ten different species in Michigan that can be a bit tricky to find. Salamanders like to bury underneath leaf litter and moist soils. Mudpuppies and sirens like to stay at the bottom of ponds, streams and lakes. Salamanders have the ability to breathe and drink through their thin skin, as water is easily able to transfer in and out of their bodies. For this reason, you will seldom find them in high and dry places. However you may find a four-legged salamander look-alike basking in a sunny area! Michigan does have one most common species of lizard – the five-lined skink. Look for five yellow-toned lines running from the tip of their nose down through the tail to correctly identify a five-lined skink. These critters will stick to wooded areas with moist soils and ample basking opportunities.
As you move away from the bodies of water and head for wooded areas, you enter snake territory. There are seventeen species of snakes found in Michigan, with a few of these species considered threatened or a species of special concern. We only have one venomous snake in our state – the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake – and they are more likely to turn and flee from you than attack! In fact, most of our snakes prefer to hide underneath moist soils, leaves, or a fallen log. If you do come across one of our seventeen species of snakes, remember that they will initiate aggressive behavior if provoked or threatened. Keep your space and observe from a safe distance.
Herping provides a hands-on opportunity for learning about Michigan’s native reptile and amphibian species, while promoting a better understanding and appreciation for nature in both adults and children. What a great way to spend a sunny afternoon! Happy herpin’!
Online Resources:
Michigan Herp Atlas
Michigan Department of Natural Resources List of Amphibians and Reptiles
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