Reptiles can be found in many habitats, and although amphibians require access to water in order to breed, they too occur in a variety of habitats. Some of the rarer species are confined to particular wild habitats, such as heaths or sand-dunes.

The word "herptiles" is sometimes used to mean the combination of amphibians and reptiles together.

Identification

Identification is usually based on appearance, including colour, shape and size, and type of movement. The animals' habitat and behaviour can provide additional clues, and a few of the amphibians produce characteristic sounds.

Photography for identification

Most reptiles are wary of humans, so it can be difficult to get near to them for photography. Frogs and toads are easier to observe, but newts are a challenge as they are rarely encountered out of water.

Try to get photos from more than one angle if you can, and give an indication of size and habitat.

Useful links

• Reptiles and Amphibians of the UK - species identification pages
• Amphibian and Reptile Conservation
[the above organisation was recently formed from a merger between Froglife and the Herpetological Conservation Trust]
• Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the UK