Reptiles & Amphibians (1 hour)

Students will sit in a half circle on the floor of the Center or in their classroom.  Students will first be introduced to amphibians by viewing slides of  Connecticut's species.  The unique features of amphibians such as smooth moist skin, jelly like eggs, and exothermic temperature regulation will be discussed.  Students will then learn how to differentiate salamanders, frogs and toads.   After viewing the slides, live amphibians will then be introduced including; spotted salamander, bullfrog, green frog, wood frog, American toad. Species may vary depending upon availability.  The instructor will remove the animals from their containers so students can observe their locomotion, behavior and special features.  Students may touch selected species. 

Next, the instructor will introduce the unique characteristics of reptiles such as scales, leather like eggs or live birth, and exothermic temperature regulation.  Slides will be viewed to show the diversity of Connecticut species.  Turtles will be shown first and students will get to see the underside of a turtle shell in order to see the backbone and ribs.  Students will visit with a live painted turtle and box turtle to observe their unique adaptations to aquatic and forest habitats.  They will also have a chance to touch each turtle.  Snakes will then  be introduced by showing students a snake skeleton.  A live black rat snake will then be held by the instructor while habitat and lifestyle is discussed.  Lastly, students will have a chance to touch the black rat snake.