Missouri Department of Conservation

Amphibians and Reptiles

Introduction

Amphibians, which include salamanders, newts, toads and frogs, are vertebrate animals (in the phylum Chordata) that spend at least part of their life cycle in water. They are ectothermal (or "cold-blooded"), which means that they do not produce their own body heat like birds, people or other mammals. They remain the same temperature as their surroundings and seek out cooler or warmer spots to avoid temperatures too high or too low for their survival.

Missouri has 43 species of amphibians, with an additional five subspecies or geographic races. No amphibians in Missouri are venomous; they are harmless to people. The color and variety of salamanders and the calls of toads and frogs in spring and summer help make our outdoors a fun and lively place to be.

Like amphibians, reptiles are vertebrates (in the phylum Chordata) and most are ectothermal. Reptiles evolved from salamander-like creatures about 315 million years ago. Unlike amphibians, reptiles do not have to live part of their life in water. Early reptiles were the first vertebrates to produce shelled eggs that protected their eggs from drying as they developed. So, reptiles are able to live in dry habitats where amphibians can not survive.

Missouri has 63 species of reptiles: 17 different turtles, 11 different lizards and 35 different snakes. Only five snake species are venomous to people; most are shy and normally avoid people.

Lizards

Missouri is home to 13 kinds of lizards, all of which are harmless and non-venomous. Learn where Missouri's lizards live, what they eat, what eats them and how you can make room for them on your home landscape.

Snakes

Don't let fear of snakes keep you indoors—or compel you to kill every snake you see. Encounters with snakes are rare, and these animals control rodents and other pests. Getting to know the kinds, natural history and range of Missouri's snakes can help you overcome your fear of them, and appreciate their role in nature.  

The Hellbender

Hellbenders, the largest salamander in North America, are considered by some to be rather ugly. Although they may look strange, hellbenders are harmless aquatic creatures that are an important part of the Ozark stream ecosystem. Download this 8-page booklet in PDF format to learn more.

Toads and Frogs

Missouri toads and frogs are colorful, harmless, vocal and valuable. Our forests, prairies, rivers, swamps and marshes are home to a multitude of toads and frogs, but few people know how many varieties we have, how to tell them apart or much about their natural history.

Turtles

Ancient and odd-looking, turtles are fun to watch, and they play an important role in nature. They're also losing their habitat. Get to know, appreciate and conserve Missouri's turtles. Be careful when you drive, especially in spring and summer when turtles are mating, nesting and dispersing.