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Time for the @NMNH #HappyHerpingChallenge! Herping (finding wild reptiles & amphibians) is a great way to learn about the scaley, slimey, lesser understood creatures around you. Here are some tips on how to keep yourself and the herps safe while herping (thread!):
Herps thermoregulate under rocks and logs. Be sure to flip logs slowly to uncover any hidden gems. Here, @kristenswacker & @BenNicholasfish carefully uncover ~12 snakes sharing one log as a sleeping spot! They replaced the log back in the same spot after admiring the snakes 
Most herps are moving with a purpose! If you see some out and about, like this spotted salamander, itâs important not to move or relocate them. This beauty was on her way into the nearby vernal pond to breed when we saw her on the trail! #HappyHerpingChallenge
Observing reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitat is the best way to herp! Take photos & videos of species you find & use a field guide to ID them. Some herps, like this Ambystoma salamander, have skin that absorbs bad chemicals off of your skin if you handle them.
Snakes use boards, rocks, and logs for warmth & shelter. Oftentimes, you can flip something and find snakes who wonât move when they see you. This is because they hope you donât see them there or recognize that moving may risk their safety. Gently place the cover back down!
Every region has different native reptiles and amphibians. A field guide or Google can help you ID what herps you may find (remember, some herps are venomous). Hereâs a harmless blue spotted salamander I found snuggled up under a log in a nature preserve #HappyHerpingChallenge
Herps often hide in plain sight. There is a common garter snake in this photo; do you see it? #HappyHerpingChallenge
Here is an example of why you should only observe and never handle herps when you find them. Here, Iâve flipped 4 venomous cottonmouths (1 adult and 3 juveniles) under some discarded tin in the woods. These creatures are best admired from a distance
