Sunday, April 24 from Noon to 5:00 PM

Tom Tyning will be speaking at Ware River Nature Club’s annual meeting on Saturday, April 24th at 2:15 PM. You can attend the presentation in person or by Zoom. (Contact warerivernatureclub@yahoo.com for Zoom link and fee information.)

In general, the study of amphibians and reptiles has lagged far behind that of other vertebrates and even of many invertebrates. We still lack basic knowledge of the distribution of many of our species, not to mention their population levels, trends, or natural fluctuations. Yet, despite regular setbacks, insights continue to unfold that provide some hope for conservation.

This presentation will highlight relevant trends in herpetological research, areas of fieldwork where any of us can contribute, and a conservation outlook for selected species in our region. The complex intersection of science, speculation, politics, and history has made the study of local amphibians and reptiles both imperative and filled with roadblocks. But, for those who revel in the April chorus of spring peepers or relax at the sight of a sun-basking turtle, field observations will continue to encourage an energetic and positive hope for all components of healthy landscapes, including the herps.

About the Speaker
Tom Tyning is a professor of environmental science at Berkshire Community College, former field biologist and master naturalist for the Mass Audubon Society, author of A Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles, and founder of the Berkshire Natural History Conference. Tyning brings his authority and enthusiasm to everything he does, from teaching to working on Salamander Tunnels in Amherst to researching local rattlesnake and butterfly populations.

To learn more about this event, click here.