Reptiles & Amphibians

Although only 72-acres in size, Younger Lagoon Reserve provides habitat for many reptile and amphibian species.  When considered together, reptiles and amphibians are referred to as herps.  Although both reptiles and amphibians are ectotherms (cold blooded), they are not closely genetically related, and have some distinct life-history traits.

Reptiles include snakes, lizards, and turtles.  They can survive without living in the water, although turtles typically live around water.  A variety of snakes, lizards, and turtles can be found at Younger Lagoon Reserve.

Amphibians include frogs and salamanders.  They are dependant on water because they must keep their skin wet in order to breathe and they enshroud their eggs in moisture in order for them to grow.  It is during the winter that amphibians, including the Pacific treefrog, and the endangered California Red-Legged Frog are able to live near the Lagoon and in the Terrace Lands' freshwater wetlands.  During the rest of the year, they live at nearby year-round freshwater locations.