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Reptiles and Amphibians

The story of reptiles and amphibians is a sad one. Not only have their populations decreased near Bayberry Beach, there is a decrease of reptile and amphibian populations worldwide, and for many species, scientists are unsure why. Therefore, please, do not collect any reptiles or amphibians from the wild. Even if you take good care of the individual you find, you prevent him/her from reproducing with other individuals and hence lead to a decrease in the population. However, do not release your pets to the wild without consulting an expert first. Your pet may have a disease or may be a member of an invasive species. Bayberry Beach has almost nothing in terms of reptiles and amphibians, we must do whatever we can to protect what is left.

In some parts of Long Island, there is immense reptile and amphibian diversity. Since many of Long Island's wild spaces have forest, wetlands, ocean, bay, and freshwater ecosystems close together, different species of frogs, toads, salamanders, and turtles are able to live relatively close to each other.

note: If you are interested in what other reptile and amphibian species exist in our area, contact Seatuck National Wildlife Refuge (631-286-0485) or South Shore Nature Center. The website for Long Island's refuges is longislandrefuges.fws.gov. These photos were not taken at Bayberry Beach, but from Google images. However, these species have been observed at or near Bayberry Beach.

Garter Snake

These snakes tend to be rather small and are always harmless. There are no poisonous snakes on Long Island. The last rattle snakes were hunted out by the early 1900's. There are other snake species on Long Island, but this is the only species I found near Bayberry Beach.

Eastern Box Turtle

In general, this species tends to reside in the southeastern United States, but you will find them on Long Island, and I've seen them near Bayberry Beach. There are also other turtle species on Long Island, but I haven't seen them at/near Bayberry Beach. Be careful when you drive! I visited Munn County Wildlife Rescue in Hampton Bays and was informed that approximately 30 turtles were rescued from car accidents this summer alone.

Frog

This species is called a Southern Leopard frog. They used to be common in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Now, some scientists believe they are extinct on Long Island. Be careful while driving, frogs and toads can be very small and hard to see.