Hobbies And Interests
Common Species
Some of the most common species of reptiles and amphibians also appear in Arkansas. Among these are the box turtle, Texas rat snake and American bullfrog. Among the larger, more common reptiles is the American alligator. National Geographic notes that the species American alligator was saved from the brink of extinction and now thrives in states across the U.S. They reside primarily in fresh water rivers, swamps, marshes and lakes.
Lizards
There are 11 total species of lizards in Arkansas. Among these are the prairie lizard, Western slender glass lizard and the American chameleon. These lizards are small and colorful, and the American chameleon has the ability to change color and blend into an array of brown, green and gray backgrounds.
Snakes
Arkansas boasts a diverse population of 36 snake species. Among these are the Texas coral snake, Eastern garter snake, Northern rough green snake, Southern copperhead, North American racer and the rarely seen diamond-backed rattlesnake. Only six of these 36 species are actually venomous. Snakes are also known to avoid direct confrontation with human beings. These species are so abundant, however, that it is not impossible to see a snake in town.
Amphibians
The Amphibian species of Arkansas include the green tree frog, Fowler's toad, Southern leopard frog, Hurter's spadefoot and Eastern narrow-mouthed toad. Overall, 22 species of frog are found in Arkansas. The next, but hardly thought about, group of amphibians are the 26 species of salamanders. The species of salamanders include the grotto salamander, four-toed salamander, Red River mudpuppy and the ringed salamander. Arkansas salamanders have some of the most diverse markings and colorings of the entire reptile and amphibian population.