Public's Help Sought To List Michigan Reptiles, Amphibians

LANSING (AP) - Wildlife experts are putting together Michigan's first statewide inventory of reptiles and amphibians and want the public's help.

The state Department of Natural Resources is inviting people who see turtles, frogs, toads, snakes, salamanders and lizards to report the sightings.

Project coordinator Lori Sargent says information is needed on all species, no matter how common or rare.

The Herp Atlas Project is intended to document the distribution of Michigan reptiles and amphibians, collectively known as herpetofauna or "herps."

Sargent says observations must be verified by a knowledgeable source or by submission of a photo, audio recording or body part. She says animals should not be killed for identification purposes.

Participants can enter their sightings online at www.miherpatlas.org.

A mobile app is also available for download from the website.

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