Amphibian Info-File

Salamanders, toads, and frogs are all amphibians. Amphibians differ from reptiles in that amphibians spend the first part of their lives in aquatic habitats equipped with gills to breath. Eventually the young grow legs, develop lungs, and breath air. A difference which may help you distinguish between amphibians and reptiles is that amphibians have moist skin, whereas most reptiles have dry, scaly skin. Many salamanders and frogs live in or near ponds, marshes, and lakes. By quietly approaching such habitats and looking carefully at the water's surface, you may spot individuals emerging. Toads, treefrogs, and some salamanders live in upland areas. By looking under logs in a woodland, you may discover them, but be sure to carefully replace logs as they were found. Identify species by color, size, and habitat. It is very important to note that amphibians have sensitive, moist, glandular skin that is easily damaged by human hands. To avoid harming species, make sure your hands are relatively clean and wet before touching amphibians. Another way to enjoy and identify amphibians is through a night walk on your site. Chorus frogs, such as the spring peeco are famous for their night sounds, and the more familiar bullfrog is well-known for its bass notes that say "jug-o'-rum." Children are particularly fascinated by salamanders, toads, and frogs. If possible, include children in your search for amphibians on site. Info-Links Audubon Field Guides Online - eNature.com The USGS has an amphibian identification guide online with pictures. Amphibian Identification Pages. Frogs of New England. North American Amphibian Monitoring Program. Audubon Field Guides Online - eNature.com The Oklahoma Herpetology Page - by Paul Shipman The Case of the Disappearing Frogs - Oregon Coast Aquarium Declining Amphibian Task Force - The Open University Amphibian Malformations - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Amphibian Information - North American Amphibian Monitoring Program All About Frogs - The Exploratorium Frog & Toad Pictures - Mike's Herpetocultural Homepage Green Tree Frog - Illinois Natural History Survey Newt & Salamander Pictures - Mike's Herpetocultural Homepage Amphibian Embryology Tutorial - University of Wisconsin Frogs and Toads - Cleveland Museum of Natural History Identification Keys - Cortland University Herpetology Connection Lots of Herp Information - kingsnake.com Amphibian Links - Good information from HerpMed Herpetology People - Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles The Norman Bird Sanctuary has a bookstore with recommended fieldguides where your purchase, via amazon.com, earns Norman a small portion of the sales.

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