Herping Ethics

By adhering to these general guidelines you can enhance the thrilling experience of herping in the state of Texas.

General

• Avoid going herping alone.  Always let someone know when and where you are going.

Laws/regulations

• It is your responsibility to know all the local, state, & federal laws/regulations regarding interacting and or collecting native species. Texas Parks & Wildlife Division regulations regarding reptiles and amphibians. Federal & State Listed Reptiles & Amphibians in Texas.

• Texas Parks & Wildlife Division Hunting License required for collecting native non-protected species of reptiles and amphibians.  You must buy a regular hunting license with a Reptile & Amphibian stamp.

• TPWD Reptiles & Amphibians FAQ.

Herping

• Always know if the property is public or private.

• Always obtain permission to be on private land.

• Always park in designated areas.

• Never litter.  Always leave no trace.

• When looking under objects always place them back the way you found them.

• Never destroy or alter the habitat

• Treat all herps and wildlife with respect.

• Avoid handling any venomous snakes.

• Avoid handling amphibians if you have any chemicals (bug spray, sun block, etc.) on your hands.

Road Riding (Driving roads & back roads typically at night in search of herps)

• When road riding be aware of other vehicles both in front and behind you.

• Pull over ONLY when safe and ALWAYS pull completely off the road.

• When road riding you can not collect reptiles and amphibians from the road, ONLY from the the shoulder and unpaved public area of the right-of-way.

• You must wear reflective clothing at all times when collecting on the shoulder and unpaved public area right-of-way.