Reptiles and Amphibians

Species Pages:

Turtles of NH

Salamanders of NH

Snakes of NH

Frogs of NH

Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program (RAARP)

RAARP is a program coordinated by the NH Fish and Game Nongame & Endangered Wildlife Program where volunteers report sightings of reptiles and amphibians from spring peepers to snapping turtles. These reports are extremely valuable to biologists. Observations are used to determine the distribution of all reptiles and amphibians within New Hampshire. Reports of less common species are very important. Verified reports of rare species locations are mapped and stored in a database used for land protection and conservation purposes. Reports should be accompanied by a clear photograph whenever possible. To be added to the spring mailing list, please contact the NH Fish and Game Wildlife Division: (603) 271-5859 or email wildlife@wildlife.nh.gov. RAARP participants must obey all local, state, and federal laws while collecting reptile and amphibian location data. Observers are strongly encouraged to get landowner permission before going onto private property.

Spring 2011 Letter & 2010 RAARP Summary

Tools for RAARPers:

Download RAARP reporting form (for printing/mailing)
RAARP/NH Wildlife Sightings Email Submission Form (this is a Word doc)
Wildlife Sightings/RAARP Online Entry Instructions
Commonly asked RAARP questions
Keys to the Amphibians & Reptiles of New Hampshire
How to Photograph Amphibians and Reptiles
Reporting New Hampshire Reptile & Amphibian Sightings
The Early Spring Amphibians and Reptiles
Tips on Field Techniques
RAARP report archives*:
- Spring 2010 report & 2009 Summary (PDF, 5.6 MB)
- Spring 2009 report & 2008 Summary (PDF, 1.3 MB)
- Spring 2008 RAARP information & 2007 Summary (PDF, 130 KB)
- Spring 2007 RAARP information & 2006 Summary (PDF, 113 KB)
- 2005 RAARP Observation Summary Report

Vernal pool documentation manual - now FREE FOR DOWNLOAD!
Vernal pools are temporary bodies of water that provide essential habitat for a variety of creatures. Dry basins fill as water tables rise in fall or winter and during spring snowmelt and rains; pools usually dry by mid-to late summer. For some species of amphibians and invertebrates, vernal pools are required for breeding. Other species, such as Blanding's and spotted turtles, often use vernal pools for foraging or mating. Anyone interested in locating vernal pools in their area can get detailed guidance from Identification and Documentation of Vernal Pools in New Hampshire. Click here to download (PDF - 677 KB). Vernal pools documented by volunteers are sent to the local conservation commission and NH Fish and Game. Limited hard copies are available for pickup at Fish and Game. Contact the Wildlife Division at (603) 271-2461 or wildlife@wildlife.nh.gov.