Organized in 1958, the Virginia Herpetological Society brings together people interested in advancing their knowledge of Virginia's reptiles and amphibians. The VHS encourages scientific study of Virginia herpetofauna and its conservation. Education continues to be an important society function.

Society meetings are held twice each year, in spring and fall, at different locations throughout the state. The program is open to all members and guests and includes an educational workshop, a business meeting, and a contributed papers session during which members present information on their research and interest with Virginia's reptiles and amphibians.

The Fall Meeting Workshop trains members and educators on the identification, conservation, and captive care of common reptile and amphibian species, as well as those that are threatened and endangered. A two-day trip during the Spring meeting teaches members field sampling techniques and identification by professional herpetologists.

The VHS publishes a bulletin, CATESBEIANA, twice each year that contains research, field notes, and other information on various aspects of herpetology submitted by its members. The society also produces a semi-annual newsletter to keep you informed on conservation, education, and upcoming events pertaining to the Commonwealth's reptiles and amphibians.


Need help with identifying a reptile or amphibian?

  Send an email to: id@virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com
  To improve the identification process, provide the following when possible:

  1. Photos (If possible include a ventral photo for salamanders)
  2. Locality (county or city)
  3. Approximate total length of the animal

Frogs and Toads

Virginia is home to 28 species of frogs and toads.

Salamanders

We have a large diversity of salamanders consisting of 59 different species and subspecies.

Lizards

Virginia is home to 9 native lizard species and three introduced species, the Mediterranean Gecko, Italian Wall Lizard, and Green Anole.

Snakes

The Commonwealth is home to 34 species and subspecies of snake. Only 3 species are venomous.

Turtles

Virginia has 25 species and subspecies of turtle. Five of these species are sea turtle.

Box Turtle Reporting

Frog Call Quiz

Spadefoot Reporting

Conservation • Education • Research


Photo of a woman holding salamander
Photo of a man holding an Eastern Ratsnake
Photo of a young lady holding a Woodland Box Turtle
Photo of a group of VHS survey members
A group examining a toad