Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin

Description

Amphibians and reptiles represent an essential and interesting component of Wisconsin’s wildlife. Eighteen species of amphibian and thirty-six species of reptile occupy landscapes across the state. They live in aquatic habitats that range from small streams to large lakes, and from open prairies to mature forests on land. These species are vital members of the biological communities in which they occur, acting as important predators, prey, and competitors, while also providing a wide variety of additional ecological functions. However, many amphibians and reptiles have experienced drastic population declines and even local extinctions in Wisconsin due to habitat loss and degradation, overharvesting, the introduction of invasive species, pollution, and other factors. This comprehensive volume, by an expert team of editors and contributors, consolidates the current state of scientific knowledge, aims to expand public knowledge and appreciation of Wisconsin’s natural legacy, and brings out the herpetologist in all of us.
 
This long-awaited, state-of-the-field synthesis also includes hundreds of color photographs and illustrations, state-level and North American range maps, dichotomous keys, and research and conservation anecdotes that will entertain and inform even the most dedicated nature lover. Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin is set to become a lasting resource and armchair companion for anyone in the Midwest interested in the state’s natural history and amphibian and reptile fauna. This long-awaited, state-of-the-field synthesis also includes hundreds of color photographs and illustrations, state-level and North American range maps, dichotomous keys, and research and conservation anecdotes that will entertain and inform even the most dedicated nature lover. Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin is set to become a lasting resource and armchair companion for anyone in the Midwest interested in the state’s natural history and amphibian and reptile fauna. “This profusely illustrated compendium is a model for all state and regional guides. In addition to detailed species accounts, it provides field-based insights into how animals interact with natural and anthropogenic habitats, historical perspectives of Wisconsin landscapes, insights into the practice of herpetology, and guidelines for sound management practices. This is a must for professional herpetologists and conservationists and for anyone with an interest in the natural world.”—Robert Powell, coauthor of the Peterson Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America “The amount of information in this book is almost overwhelming. Its thoroughness and broad scope should make it a desirable book for a wide audience.”—Robert W. Henderson, Milwaukee Public Museum Joshua M. Kapfer is a Certified Wildlife Biologist®  and a professor in the department of biological sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater.
Donald J. Brown is a Certified Wildlife Biologist® and a research assistant professor of wildlife resources in the school of natural resources at West Virginia University. Contents
 
Foreword by Michael J. Lannoo
Acknowledgments
Contributors
Acronyms and Abbreviations
 
Introduction
Systematics and Classification
Some Prominent Figures in Wisconsin Herpetology
Past, Present, and Potential Future Landscapes of Wisconsin, with Emphasis on Amphibian and Reptile Distributions
Amphibians and Reptiles in Wisconsin Plant Communities
Introduction to Conservation and Management of Wisconsin’s Amphibians and Reptiles
Identification Keys for Amphibians and Reptiles in Wisconsin
Introduction to Species Accounts
 
Anura (Frogs and Toads)