Napa RCD Weekly Activity Digest - 18th Edition
Greetings from Napa RCD!
“
... it's no secret that I find reptiles interesting, but the thing about reptiles is that they really just wanna be left alone, and I understand them. It's, 'Don't pick me up, stop holding me, don't look at me, just leave me alone.' I have to admit, sometimes I feel like that.
”
-attributed to Nicolas Cage
Herpetology and herpetofauna are great words. They're fun to say, fun to spell, but they are not typically used in daily conversation. Herpetology is the study of herpetofauna, or reptiles and amphibians. Herpetofauna is often shortened to herps by those that say the words a lot, and herpetology is often shortened to herping.
Many people that grew up in more rural areas can remember spending many fun hours catching frogs or finding salamanders in creeks as kids. But there's no reason that should be a kids-only activity! All you adults out there, try looking for a frog or salamander on your next walk in a park or natural area.
Although Nicolas Cage (if it is in fact his quote) is right in that herpetofauna just want to be left alone and untouched, we can still take the time to learn about what types of herps exist here with us. And, we should definitely keep our eyes and ears open for those rare sightings. Look, learn, but don't touch (too much)!
Tag us on social media @NapaRCD and #WILDnapa, or email
Education@NapaRCD.org.
* * * * * * * * *
Many thanks to the following education and outreach activity sponsors for their support: NOAA, County of Napa, Napa County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, City of Napa, the Watershed Information and Conservation Council, and Friends of the Napa River.
