Wisconsin Native Amphibians and Reptiles
© Eric Roscoe 2025
Last Update April 13, 2025
Wisconsin is home to about 55 different species of native reptiles and amphibians (which are
collectively known as herps or herptiles). Of these, there are 7 species of salamanders, 12
species of frogs and toads, 11 species of turtles, 4 species of lizards (yes, Wisconsin has native
lizards), and 21 species of snakes, 2 of which are venomous (at least in the sense of being
medically significant to humans).
Some species are common and widespread, while others tend to be much more localized,
rarer, or more difficult to find. Some are state Threatened or Endangered as well. Here, you will
find detailed natural history accounts of each of the native amphibian and reptile species we
have in Wisconsin, including a detailed identification and description, range and preferred
habitats in the state, their diets and feeding behaviors, defense behaviors, reproduction and
breeding, and other aspects of their biology and natural history specific to populations in
Wisconsin, whenever possible or available.