Reptiles and Amphibians of SC
South Carolina is home to approximately 143 species of native reptiles and amphibians, making it one of the most diverse assemblages in the United States. Reptiles and amphibians are important members of our ecosystem providing important functions including natural pest control, seed dispersal and germination, nutrient cycling and prey for multiple other wildlife species. While many species of reptiles and amphibians occur throughout South Carolina, they are faced with immense challenges. Human-induced landscape changes and activities, such as habitat loss and degradation, collection, and vehicle mortality, have all contributed to population declines and threaten our remaining populations. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources continues to work toward conservation and management of all our native reptile and amphibian species to ensure secure, viable populations that persist for future generations. For more information about nonnative wildlife, visit the Restricted Nonnative Wildlife page.
SCDNR Herpetology
Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries
Ph: (843) 527-8448
Fax: (843) 527-0255
E-mail: herps@dnr.sc.gov