Long Island is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians including turtles, snakes, and frogs. All of these animals are ectothermic (cold-blooded) so they get their heat from bathing in the sun. Turtles and frogs are omnivores meaning they eat both meat and plant matter while the snakes are carnivores. These animals consume everything from algae, and plankton to fish, mice, and insects. Don't worry, there are no venomous snakes native to Long Island!

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Did You Know?

All of the reptile and amphibian species on Long Island go through a period of hibernation or brumation during the winter. Their body's metabolic processes slow down to conserve heat and energy during the cold months. When the weather starts to warm up their bodies gradually wake up until they are fully active again in the spring.

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Coexisting with Reptiles & Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians are an important part of our ecosystem, here are some ways to easily coexist with them.

• Check your property before mowing your lawn to avoid accidentally injuring any reptile or amphibian

• Deter snakes from your property by following these guidelines

• If you see a turtle crossing the road help it across in the same direction it was heading.