How to Find Reptiles and Amphibians Near Home
If you’re anything like me, when you step outside, you may stop to think about what kind of critters might be hanging out… could there be reptiles or amphibians right outside your door? The truth is that you don’t need to head to a rainforest or takes trips to deserts to find reptiles and amphibians. They’re much closer than you think!
And this is why I am so excited to share the wonderful world of backyard herping with you. It’s fun, educational and an amazing way to get up close with nature without having to leave home. Because let’s be real, sometimes we just want to chill at thome.
Today, we’re going to dig into what backyard herping is all about. Whether you’re an animal loving adult, a parent looking to spark your kiddo’s love of nature or just someone that wants to feel more connected to your local ecosystem, I promise that backyard herping is an adventure worth taking.
So What IS Backyard Herping?
If you’re new to the world of herping, no worries! We’re going to start with the basics. Herping definitely sounds a little weird if you’ve never heard it before but it’s just a nickname that comes from the word “herpetology.” And herpetology is… drumroll, please… the study of reptiles and amphibians.
You’re putting it all together now!
Herping means going out to find, observe and appreciate these amazing animals in their natural habitats. You could head into forests, wetlands and get lost in some remote piece of the wild, sure… OR you could start finding critters right where you live.
Backyard herping is exactly what it sounds like… finding reptiles and amphibians in your own neighborhood. And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or a big yard. Even the smallest of spaces can offer some of the coolest surprises. Maybe it’s a frog that’s made itself at home in your flowerpot or a garter snake basking in the sun on your patio. Your yard is it’s own tiny jungle if you know where to look.
What I love most about all of this isn’t just finding critter. No, it’s what happens as a side effect. The slowing down and noticing the small things we would normally tune out. It’s about reconnecting with nature and finding peace in that, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
But when should you go herping? And where?
While the adventure of backyard herping is fun on it’s own, you are probably more than excited about the idea of finding a cool reptile or amphibian. If you want to up your chances, timing and location can make a huge difference. There may be days that you’ll come up finding nothing and other days, it’ll feel like they’re everywhere. Knowing where to look and when is the key to having more of the latter.
Timing Matters
In order to know when to look for animals, you have to know a little bit more about when they’re active. Reptiles and amphibians are ectothermic. This means that their body temperature depends on the environment. This is important to take into consideration because this means that their activity is very closely tied to the weather and the time of time.
With all of that in mind, here’s when you’re going to have the best luck.
Spring and Early Summer. This is prime time for herping. Amphibians are busy breeding and the reptiles are starting to warm up after cold winters.
Warm, Humid Nights. Amphibians LOVE moist conditions. If you’ve ever heard frogs calling after a rain, you know exactly what I mean.
Early Mornings and Late Afternoons. Reptiles often bask during these times to warm up without getting too hot. But don’t let that deter you from looking midday! Some species of reptiles do love the hot sun!
After Rain. Rain is pretty much a signal for amphibians to party. Check out sidewalks and ditches and anywhere that gets a puddle.
One of my favorite herping memories was a spring evening after a heavy rain. We’d trapsed through trails and wandered around ponds, finding a few toads here and there. While the toads definitely brought joy, I was surprised that we hadn’t found more… especially considering the volume of frog calls we heard!
Imagine my surprise when I noticed puddles in tire tracks on the side of the road that were FILLED with salamanders, spring peepers and more. All the time I had spent looking and these little critters had made themselves at home in puddles! It just goes to show you… sometimes wildlife is in the most unexpected of places.
Which leads us to the big question…
Where Should You Look?
Here’s the thing… no two yards or neighborhoods are exactly the same but reptiles and amphibians tend to love the same kinds of cozy little spots. These little pocket sized habitats are where they may find shelter, food, and the best mix of moisture and warmth. So if you’re looking for a reptile or amphibian, you’ll want to check out some of these places.
Under Logs, Rocks, and Boards. Salamanders, toads, and small snakes love hiding here. Always lift gently and be sure to put everything back how you found it.
In Leaf Litter and Brush Piles. Frogs, toads, and even lizards love damp piles of leaves and messy corners where they can stay hidden.
Near Water. Ponds, birdbaths, or even soggy garden spots are hotspots for amphibians.
Sunny Spots. Lizards and snakes love basking on rocks, garden walls, or fences to soak up warmth.
Crevices and Cracks. Spaces between patio stones, cracks in brick, or gaps in woodpiles are great hiding places.
Have you noticed that there’s a bit of a theme here? We’re looking something a little less manicured! You don’t need a perfectly landscaped garden to welcome wildlife into it. In fact, a slightly “messy” yard, with logs and rocks and natural debris, is way better for critters than perfectly manicured lawns.
What Should You Bring?
One of the best things about backyard herping is that you don’t need much to get started! You really can just head out and start looking. That said, there are a few things that can make this experience easier and a heck of a lot more fun. If you’re looking to build a basic herping kit, here’s what I would add.
Flashlight or Headlamp. If you’re out at night or looking in poorly lit spots, a flashlight is absolutely key. And a bonus? If you go for the headlamp, your hands are free for moving things!
Field Guides or Apps. A field guide or app, like iNaturalist, is SO handy for helping to identify the things you find. Not only that, you’ll get to learn some cool facts as you go!
Notebooks. Document what you find! It’s so fun to do and gives you a chance to look back and see what patterns come up in when/where you find critters.
Camera or Phone. Take pictures to document your finds! Make sure to take them from a safe distance if you can’t identify it.
Gloves (optional). If you must handle a critter, gloves can protect both you and them. Always wet your hands or dampen the gloves first if you’re handling amphibians.
This is a great way to get started with your herping kit. Some other helpful items would be
Binocular to observe from a distance.
Insect repellent. Because… mosquitoes.
Kneepads to protect your knees if you’re kneeling or crawling a lot.
Remember, though, despite all of these tools, the goal is observe, not disturb. That means whatever you bring with you must come home with you.
Conservation & Safety
Herping is so fun and so rewarding but it also comes with responsibility. These critters are sensitive and their environments can be fragile. That’s why it’s so important to follow these four rules when you’re out herping.
Look, Don’t Touch (unless necessary)
Amphibians have super porous skin, which means anything on your hands has the potential to be absorbed. We’re talking about oils, lotions, soap residue, hand sanitizer. Reptiles are a little tougher but they can still get stressed easily.
So the best rule to follow is look with your eyes, not your hands.
Of course, there are exceptions, like helping a turtle across the road. But in those situations, be as gentle as possible.
Leave No Trace
When you lift a rock or a log, you’re stepping into a very delicate world. Always put everything back exactly how you found it. While it may look like “just a log” to you, this is a critters home.
Also? Leave the brush piles and fallen logs when you can!
Do NOT Collect Wild Animals
I know… they’re so cute and it’s so tempting. But wild animals belong in the wild. Taking them out of their habitat doesn’t just harm the critter you’re taking but the whole ecosystem. If you’re looking for a pet, do your research and obtain one from a rescue or reputable breeder. Not the wild.
Safety First. For the Critters AND You!
Most backyard species are completely harmless but it’s good to know what lives in your area. Some regions have venomous snakes so it’s always good to be prepared. Do your research and do not approach what you cannot confidently identify.
A few other safety tips are:
Wear closed toed shoes.
Watch where you step and where you put your hands.
Teach kids to observe with respect and not to poke, prod or chase wildlife.
This Isn’t Just a Hobby. Herping is Important!
Reptiles and amphibians are incredibly important for healthy ecosystems. They help control pests, keep food webs balanced, and, in the case of amphibians, serve as early warning signs of environmental health. When their numbers decline, it’s usually a red flag that something’s wrong in the environment.
By learning to spot and appreciate these animals, you’re not just having fun, you’re helping conservation efforts simply by becoming more aware and sharing what you learn.
Plus? It’s just really rewarding to feel that deep connection with nature, right outside your own home.
Your Backyard Adventure Awaits!
Backyard herping is seriously one of the most fun, relaxing, and eye-opening ways to connect with nature. Whether you’re flipping logs at sunrise or shining a flashlight around your garden at dusk, you never know what cool creature might be waiting to meet you.
Remember, you’re not just observing nature, you’re part of it. Happy herping!
