Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello everyone!

In the past few years I have been very interested in captive breeding and the study of reptiles and amphibians. Since then I have been reading all that I could about these little(and large) guys. Even more recently I have been looking towards college and future careers. After reading up some, I found that I did not have to wait until I had graduated high school to start my education. I could start now! So, that is why I am here, looking for any suggestions on how I can start observing and noting these amazing creature. Any advice to me about what I need to start and websites to read up on or anything of the sort is welcome.

Note: I live in central Texas.

Thank you so much!

get out in the field and observe as muchas you can, time temps, habitats, season, humidity. keep detailed records of species like # seen,county. just read as much as you can check sites read forums ask q's. if you don't have any herps get one or two try breeding. basically learn as much as possible and ask q's no q's a dumb one. goodluck
wayne

Thanks so much. I am hoping to start a beardy or leopard breeding proj. soon. Appreciated once again

Hey Herpz! Looks like you have a great place to start. You can take walks in the state forest to the north and east of you, you can search around private property that you have permission to hunt on, after 16, you need your own hunting license, till then you can legally hunt with a supportive adult on their license. It helps to be familiar with the species living in your immediate area, so you know what NOT to pick up! Be careful to replace rocks and logs in as close to their original position as possible. Check trash piles, lots of herps can be found under there! I would advise you to find a mentor to help get you started, there are a few great herp clubs in San Antonio and Austin,they can really help you out. Good hiking shoes/boots, insect repellant, and a good hook can get you started, as Wayne said, ask questions. Get a good field guide,Tennent's Snakes of Texas or Dixon's are great guides. Oh, and bring your camera along, you will need it!

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Todd Hughes

I'm also in central Texas.

If your looking for somebody to go out exploring with, shoot me a PM!

//Todd

Thanks both of you for your support and advice. I really appreciate it

I am in West Texas, if you ever want to head out this way, give me a shout, i herp constantly during the season, dang near every night, its an addiction that you will probley end up developing
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To you im just the crazy snake guy, but to some I'm a 'Herper'.