Amphibians and Reptiles

You can help scientists monitor herp populations and protect them from threats like roads, predators and habitat loss. Wisconsin is home to 19 species of amphibians (frogs and salamanders) and 37 reptiles (snakes, turtles and lizards). There are many ways to get involved!

Surveys

Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey

Volunteer with the Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey.

The primary purpose of the citizen-based Wisconsin frog and toad survey (WFTS) is to determine the status, distribution and long-term population trends of Wisconsin's frog species. The WFTS began annual statewide surveys in 1984 and is now one of the longest running amphibian monitoring projects in North America.

Report your observations

Road crossings/mortalities - frogs, salamanders, snakes, lizards

Report frog, salamander, snake and lizard road crossings and road mortalities using the Reptile and Amphibian Road Mortality Reporting Form. Our goal is to 1) identify high road crossing and mortality areas where we can work to incorporate mitigation efforts to diminish this threat and 2) gain a better understanding of where these species occur in the state to better protect them. Please be careful when observing or photographing wildlife on roads. Only do so if you can safely park your vehicle, slow down, and/or get out of your car.

Road crossings/mortalities - turtles

Report your turtle observations to the Wisconsin Turtle Conservation Program (WTCP). The WTCP is a citizen-based monitoring program designed to catalog species' statewide distributions and to document high turtle crossing and mortality locations along roads in order to promote effective management and conservation of Wisconsin’s 11 turtle species. Please be careful when observing or photographing wildlife on roads. Only do so if you can safely park your vehicle, slow down, and/or get out of your car.

Other amphibian and reptile observations

Use the DNR's Natural Heritage Inventory reporting form to submit all other amphibian and reptile observations.

Snake fungal disease observations

Snake fungal disease (SFD) is an emerging disease that impacts numerous species of snakes and has been found throughout much of the eastern United States. It is caused by a fungus, Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, and can cause lumps along the snake’s face, neck and body. In other snakes, skin blisters or scabby areas may be the only sign of disease.

Read more about SFD and report suspected signs of SFD here.

Other ways to help

Donate

Your donation to the Endangered Resources Fund helps save rare plants, animals and natural communities. Any amount helps, no matter how small, and your gift is matched, doubling your impact. We accept VISA, Master Card, American Express, Discover and eCheck.

Donate now and specify your donation goes to our herp fund. Thank you!