Wildlife Diversity Program Quarterly Report for April–June 2025
Backyard Snakes and a Bioblitz
by Jeff Hall, NCPARC Biologist
NCPARC sponsored two Backyard Snake events during April, targeting local triangle areas to help learn about snake identification and conservation. The events were held in Cary and Apex with each one attracting several hundred attendees. Staff also par- ticipated in a BioBlitz at Carver’s Creek State Park in the Sandhills. One of the species found during this 24-hour survey was a relatively newly described species, the Caro- lina Sandhills Salamander. This was the first adult found in Cumberland County.
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
Above: Carolina Sandhills Salamander. Left: Kids at one of the Backyard Snake events. Below: Timber Rattlesnake
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
Turtles, Frogs, and Snakes, Oh My!
by Jeff Hall, NCPARC Biologist
WRC staff focused on several species during the spring months including Spotted Turtles, Gopher Frogs, and Timber Rattlesnakes. In addition to these species, many other SGCN reptiles and amphibians were encountered on WRC managed lands, as well as other public and pri- vate lands across the Coastal Plain and Mountain regions. Of particular note, with the wonderful help of partner agencies, over 500 young Gopher Frogs were able to be released into the wild from head-starting efforts. Partner agencies include the North Carolina Zoo, the North Car- olina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, NCSU’s Center for Marine and Science Technology (CMAST), and the USFWS Edenton National Fish Hatchery. They say it takes a vil- lage, and we have several villages working diligently on Gopher Frog conservation!
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
JEFF HALL/NCWRC
NATHAN VAUGHAN
Above Clockwise: Spotted Turtle; Gopher Frog release including part- ners; Scarlet Kingsnake; Gopher Frog.
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