Ann Arbor is home to many species of amphibians and reptiles, collectively called "herpetofauna." Herpetofauna are very sensitive to changes in water quality and adjacent land use. Thus, their populations can serve as an indicator of environmental quality.
Many species are seen or heard only during their breeding seasons when they migrate to and from their breeding ponds. Others are active throughout the year, but only at night or after heavy rains. Some species will only be seen when specifically searched for, and even then they may be hard to find.
Wetland and upland habitat loss, fragmentation and/or degradation, and collection for research and pets are major threats to these organisms. NAP monitors herpetofauna within City of Ann Arbor park land to determine species diversity, distribution, and abundance.
Help us by volunteering for one of our Natural Features Inventory events!
