Paul-Erik Bakland, M.S. Environmental Science and Instructor of Biology and Ecology at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, gave an amazing talk at the Cherokee Sierra Club meeting on January 28.

He enlightened us on the field of Herpetology, which is the study of reptiles and amphibians. Though amphibians are more closely aligned with fish biologically, the study of these creatures is often grouped with that of reptiles.

Our great state of Tennessee boasts:

• 48 species of Salamanders and Newts *likely more

• 34 species of Snakes

• 21 species of Frogs and Toads

• 16 species of Turtles

• 9 species of Lizards

Mr. Bakland brought up some interesting facts. While discussing Anurans (frogs and toads), he revealed that all toads are frogs, but not all frogs are toads. Tennessee is home to Bullfrogs, Spring Peepers, and 2 species of Grey Treefrogs, to name a few.

The Southern Appalachians are a biodiversity hotspot for salamanders. There have been more species of salamanders found here than anywhere else in the world. Salamander translates to “fire lizard”. Along with salamanders, Tennessee hosts the Red-Spotted Newt. Newts are incredibly adaptable creatures. Depending on their environmental conditions, they can be aquatic or terrestrial. This not only happens while they are growing into adults, but can happen many times throughout their lives, where switching back and forth from living in water or on land can occur at any time.

While 34 species of snakes can be found in Tennessee, only 4 are venomous. East Tennessee only has 2 of these, the Copperhead and Timber Rattlesnake. Despite what people might say, it is uncommon to find Copperheads around water. To identify a Copperhead, look for the Hershey Kiss-like pattern on their back. The taper of the diamond/triangle shape will be at the top of their backs. Other, non-venomous snakes have a similar pattern, but the widest part of the diamond/triangle is at the top of their back.

Amphibians and Reptiles face numerous threats in today’s world. Some of these threats include: habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, invasive species (like feral cats and fire ants), pollution, disease and direct killing by humans. While it is illegal to kill any snake in Tennessee, these animals are especially stigmatized and killed by people. It is also illegal in our state to touch or pick up any reptile or amphibian without some kind of permit. Wildlife deserves protection, and we must honor their space. Amphibians and Reptiles are incredibly beneficial to the ecosystem, acting as predators in controlling pest populations, serving as a food source for other animals, and being bioindicators for our environment.