Reptiles historically have been ignored or allocated less attention than other types of wildlife, particularly birds and mammals. All that has changed. Reptiles (and amphibians) are increasingly important in conservation and management planning, and more and more people are interested in learning about these animals. Unfortunately, much of the increased focus on reptiles stems from the fact that many of these animals are now threatened or endangered. Sharing knowledge and learning about reptiles is now more important than ever.
This website was designed to provide information on British Columbia’s reptiles to members of the public, devoted naturalists, professionals, students, and even young children with an interest in these animals. If you are interested in learning more about reptiles, you will need to consult one or more of the books on the subject that are listed elsewhere on this website. Similarly, a good field guide (again, listed on this website) will prove indispensable for people wishing to identify species that they encounter in the wild. What this website will provide, however, is a good starting point for you to learn more or access information concerning the reptile species found in our province.
Thanks are due to the many people who generously shared information, documents, photographs and their time, as well as to the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund for supplying start-up funds. Efforts will be made to continually improve this site, so if you have any constructive comments or suggestions, please send them to us (click here for the email address) . If you are looking for information on British Columbia’s amphibian species, we suggest you try the following website: BC Frogwatch Program.
Cheers.