Amphibian and reptile surveys are often performed as part of a terrestrial survey or wildlife inventory. These surveys are effective at detecting the presence of even the most elusive species. Furthermore, with the decline of many amphibian species worldwide, it is an opportune time to establish baseline distribution data where possible.
smallmouth salamander (Ambystoma texanum)
Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) are performed for terrestrial herpetiles by searching favorable habitats during the spring and summer months. Specialized traps and artificial habitat are designed to document crepuscular or otherwise difficult to observe species. Auditory surveys detect frogs and toads, and larval amphibians are laboratory identified.
brown snake (Storeia dekayi)
Photo credit Robert Curtis
