Amphibians and reptiles are an important and often misunderstood part of native ecosystems. In this project, youth discover the fascinating world of these creatures and their unique conservation needs. Youth will collect data in the field to contribute to citizen science efforts while learning the roles amphibians and reptiles play.
Objectives
Youth will:
- Learn what amphibians and reptiles are native to their region and understand their role in the ecosystem.
- Understand threats to the survival of native amphibians and reptiles
- Conduct field research as citizen scientists that can be used by field biologists studying amphibian and reptile populations
Amphibians:
- live on land and in water
- webbed feet
- breathe with lungs and gills
- cold blooded
- moist smooth skin (no hair or fur)
- 4 legs (sometimes none)
- lay many eggs
4-H Amphibian Curriculum
Amphibians & You, Student Journal
Encourage youth in your community to discover native amphibians and their value to the ecosystem. Students will learn how to identify native amphibians and conduct field research. Youth will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that they are contributing data to local herpetologists that will aid in the conservation of these magnificent creatures.
Washington 4-H Records, Forms, and Guides
For youth members
Coming soon!
For adult helpers and club leaders
Coming soon!
Helpful Resources
Activity Ideas
Coming soon!
Washington Specific Reference Material
Community conservation makes a splash in amphibian monitoring – Woodland Park Zoo
The 2023 Amphibian Monitoring Community Science program observed more than 42 bodies of water with 646 observations by 97 community science volunteers—now that’s something to croak about!
Living with wildlife: Snakes – Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife
Other Reference Material
From 4-H Programs
From Higher Education Institutions
From Related Organizations, Journals, and Professionals
Nature Lab: Life Cycles of Reptiles and Amphibians – The Wild Center (video)
Dust off the home videos because today, we’re taking a trip down memory lane with two of our herps to help explain one of the main differences between reptiles and amphibians- their lifecycle!
Nature Lab: Busting Herptile Myths – The Wild Center (video)
To wrap up our discussion of reptiles and amphibians, our naturalists are doing some mythbusting. Do mudpuppies bark? Do toads cause warts? Find out in this week’s episode.
- Kits, Projects, and Activities from National 4-H