Wisconsin's Amphibians & Reptiles

Wisconsin is home to 19 species of amphibians (frogs and salamanders) and 35 species of reptiles (snakes, turtles and lizards). Of these, 7 species are listed as Endangered (northern cricket frog, queensnake, eastern massasauga, western ribbonsnake, eastern ribbonsnake, slender glass lizard, ornate box turtle), 3 species are listed as Threatened (Butler's gartersnake, Blanding's turtle, wood turtle) and 19 are listed as Special Concern. Additionally, the eastern massasauga is listed as a federal candidate species. For more information on Wisconsin's rare amphibian and reptile species, including photos and life history information, please visit the Endangered Resources 'Biodiversity' web pages.

Wisconsin's Wildlife Action Plan identifies 24 amphibian and reptile species as Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and provides species profiles for each of these.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Use the subject links below to get answers to commonly asked questions. Specific regulations for Wisconsin herps (regarding sale, collection, etc) can be found in "Wisconsin's Amphibian & Reptile Regulations" [PDF 319KB]

General

Frogs

Salamanders

Snakes

Turtles

Lizards

News and Updates

Stay up-to-date with rare species information by subscribing to the Endangered Resources subscription email list.

• Sign up to receive Endangered Resources News & Events email updates

• Submit sightings of rare herps: Rare Animal Report Form
• Submit bullsnake sightings: Bullsnake Sighting Initiative

Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey

The primary purpose of the citizen-based Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey (WFTS) is to determine the status, distribution, and long-term population trends of Wisconsin's frog species. The WFTS was initiated in 1981 in response to known and suspected declines in several Wisconsin species. For more information on the WFTS and to learn how you can participate please visit the Wisconsin Frog and Toad Website [exit DNR].

Reports and Publications

For Kids