Reptiles and Amphibians

 

A Five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus) protects its eggs near Wondering Woods cave in the park.

NPS Photo

Diverse habitats and ecosystems contribute to the abundance of reptile and amphibian species found within the park boundary. Amphibians such as frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts, need a wet environment in order to survive, and rely on their thin skin to breathe and absorb water. Reptiles, like snakes, lizards, and turtles, with their hard-shelled or leathery eggs can live in drier habitats and locations further from water. Both reptiles and amphibians are cold blooded - requiring the sun’s heat to warm themselves. In many habitats, multiple species of both reptiles and amphibians can be found alongside one another.

 

An American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) basking in the sun on a raft of lily pads.

NPS Photo/ Deb Spillman

Ecosystem Indicators

The herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles) of Mammoth Cave National Park play important roles in the health of the ecosystems; every species is both predator and prey to other organisms within the larger food web.

Amphibians also provide a snapshot into the quality and health of our waterways. Since amphibians such as frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts spend much of their lives in streams, rivers, or ponds, they are especially vulnerable to pollution and contaminants in waterways, resulting in abnormal development and population declines. By monitoring amphibian populations, they can serve as a warning, alerting researchers to early signs of ecosystem degradation and contamination.

Visitors to the park should remember that all wildlife is protected within park boundaries and that feeding, capturing, or harassing any animal is prohibited. Maintain a safe and respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter. Remember, if the animal changes their behavior, you are already too close! Learn more about how to best view wildlife at the park.

 

Give them a break! Turtles like the Eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) are often seen crossing roads in the park. Slow down and watch for wildlife.

NPS Photo/ Sara DeMaria

Interesting Species Found in the Park

Eastern box turtle Terrapene carolina carolina

These commonly seen turtles can be identified by their bold orange and black pattern. The eastern box turtle has a distinctive hinged lower shell, allowing them to completely enclose itself. The box turtle eats a wide variety of plants and animals and is primarily terrestrial. They are most often seen in the park crossing trails and roadways, making them very vulnerable to vehicle collision.

American bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus

Often simply called a bullfrog, these amphibians get their name from the males’ bellowing during breeding season. All frogs and toads native to the park breed and lay their eggs in water, Sloans Pond is a common place to hear an American bullfrog. Salamanders, toads, and frogs have mucus covering their skin which helps them absorb oxygen. With a moderate climate, warm and moist conditions, year-round storms, and frequent flooding, this area is an excellent place for them to live.

Cave salamanders Eurycea lucifuga

Entrances to the underground labyrinth of Mammoth Cave create an environment where the slender orange bodies of cave salamanders cling to the rocky walls. Sometimes known as the spotted-tail salamander, these trogloxenes can also be found near surface water sources or under moist rocks or logs.

 

An eastern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) uses its excellent camouflage to blend into its surroundings.

NPS Photo/ Moria Painter

Venomous Snakes

The eastern copperhead Agkistrodon contortrix and Crotalus horridus, the timber rattlesnake Crotalus horridus, both prefer to stay hidden and out of sight from predators and humans alike. However, occasionally these snakes are seen along trails, in campgrounds and crossing roadways. The eastern copperhead can be identified by the dark marks that look like “Hersey’s Kisses” down the side of its body while the timber rattlesnake’s identity can be revealed by the presence of specialized scales forming a rattle on the end of its tail. Both snakes rely on their camouflage to avoid detection by predators and prey, only revealing themselves once someone or something gets too close. Snakes go into brumation (a condition of very slow metabolism) during the winter months, finding refuge from the cold in crevices and leaf piles.

 

Park Species List

Explore a sortable database of species found in the park.

NPSpecies