Got Nature? Blog

There are 36 species of snakes and lizards in Indiana and about 8,000 species worldwide. Lizards are the most taxonomically diverse and speciose group of reptiles with approximately 5,000 species. Serpentes represents the second most diverse and successful group of reptiles with approximately 3,000 species. Assistant Professor Rod Williams and Extension Wildlife Specialist Brian MacGowan of Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources have authored a book that provides information on the identification, ecology and behavior of snakes and lizards. This colorful resource with maps and photos expands upon their food habits, reproduction and conservation.

For more information about Indiana snakes and lizards, view The Education Store’s Snakes and Lizards of Indiana.

Resources:
Turtles of Indiana, The Education Store
Appreciating Reptiles and Amphibians in Nature, The Education Store
Forestry Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
The Nature of Teaching, Unit 3: Reptiles, Amphibians, and the Scientific Method, The Education Store
Snakes of Indiana, The Education Store
IDNR list of Endangered, Threatened & Rare Species
Indiana Herp Atlas
Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC)
A Moment in the Wild: Black Racer, Video, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube channel
A Moment in the Wild: Eastern Kingsnake, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
A Moment in the Wild: Eastern Hognose, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Ask An Expert: Turtles and Snakes, Purdue Extension – FNR Video
Ask An Expert, Purdue Extension – FNR Playlist

Brian MacGowan​, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University