SREL Reprint #2895

Amphibian and reptile diversity in the Sumter National Forest of South Carolina

Brian S. Metts and John P. Nestor

University of Georgia, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802

Abstract: Species distribution information is important from a conservation and management perspective. However, distribution data is limited for many amphibian and reptile species in the southeastern United States. Specifically, the distribution of herpetofauna in South Carolina is not well documented. Coverboards and area searches were used to document amphibian and reptile presence and abundance at 22 locations in the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina. County of capture for all species, new county records for three species, and a new location of a South Carolina endangered species were reported. Information gained is important in making sound land management decisions.

Keywords: Amphibians; National Forest; Plethodon websteri; reptiles

SREL Reprint #2895

Metts, B. S. and J. P. Nestor 2005. Amphibian and reptile diversity in the Sumter National Forest of South Carolina. Journal of the North Carolina Academy of Science 121:117-124.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).