Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am a student at WIU in Macomb, Illinois, and I was wondering if anybody had any info about western Illinois in the fall for herping? Over the summer I found a few n. water snakes around the river, but I haven't gone out at all in the fall. Is it too cool out now? Any info is appreciated!

I lived in Central IL for years.

Had most luck in the spring.

Over the years got: Garters, Bulls, Prarie Kings, Blue Racers, Eastern Hogs.

How much difference can Illinois be than Mo. and northern Kansas and some other states in the fall ? Not much unless a unexpected cold front comes in Oct. True that most places have more herps seen in spring due to the obvious, but that doesn't stop herps from being seen in fall and normally up to the last part or so of Oct. One might have to look harder for them in fall but i personally have found herps under cover without much problems ( just not so much out in open ). Unless a den site is in order to be found, the prime time of fall would be now through around the middle of Oct. Of course we are talking snakes but many lizards and amphs can also be found. While i don't have a Illinois field guide on hand, both the Mo. and Kansas guides clearly states species of reptiles are active into October. Now it might be a little cooler and earlier to find herps in the north of Illinois.............
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I may be old , cantankerous, crabby, and cynical, but......

>>I am a student at WIU in Macomb, Illinois, and I was wondering if anybody had any info about western Illinois in the fall for herping? Over the summer I found a few n. water snakes around the river, but I haven't gone out at all in the fall. Is it too cool out now? Any info is appreciated!

I live in Quincy, a little over an hour from you. I have had pretty good luck herping in the fall. The key is finding suitable habitat.

Eric
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If Jesus is your co-pilot, you'd better change seats!

Quincy...all my neighbors here are from Quincy! Thanks for the replies. I went out to the wooded area around the river, but had no luck...I guess I'll keep trying!

>>Quincy...all my neighbors here are from Quincy! Thanks for the replies. I went out to the wooded area around the river, but had no luck...I guess I'll keep trying!

Are any of them herpers?
Try flipping rocks on road cuts.

Eric
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If Jesus is your co-pilot, you'd better change seats!

If your on the west side near the river, go to Alton. Take the river road north past the river boat. On the left youwill see a river park that has a bike trail, part of the Katie Trail system. There are old satl peter mines in there that will yeld many salamander ssp. If you turn enough rocks, you may find a few types of snakes too. If you find the water fall ( you have to listen for it)you can find some blind crayfish. This is all I can tell you. Half the fun of herping is finding great spots! I grew up on the other side of the river but spent alot of time over there. You might want to take a significant other with you, the drive is real nice in the fall..