Snakes, turtles, and frogs are all subjects of the NH Fish and Game Department's annual census. And, as Rosemary explains, it's easy and kinda fun.
Reptiles of all sort, including this Box Turtle, are counted during the annual RAARP. (Courtesy Steven Pinker)
You know, I’ve been Raarping for a few years and I have to say it’s easier now. And perhaps more important than ever. That’s RAARP-ing not rapping. No, this old white girl is way more comfortable talking about frogs and snakes than she’ll ever be busting a move or whatever. RAARP stands for Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program and is run by the New Hampshire Fish and Game department. It’s a about a different kind of hip hop, if you will.
Basically, it works like this: you see a frog or snake or turtle and you remember where and when and then tell the state biologists about it. You can send in a form, write a letter, or just whip off an e-mail. An image of the critter is really appreciated too. The point is: they need to know about what’s out there.
Because, as you may have heard, due to habitat loss and pollution, amphibians and reptiles world-wide aren’t doing so well. It’s still unclear how they’re doing here in the Granite State. So by having as many people as possible reporting what they see, the Fish and Game folks can get a much clearer picture.
If you’re a little worried that your identification skills aren’t up to snuff, don’t worry. Just hop on over the New Hampshire Fish and Game website (we’ll provide a link at the Something Wild section at nhpr.org.) There, you’ll find a great identification section for all our turtles, frogs, and snakes, plus photos and even sounds where appropriate.
Raarping is fun, easy and really really helpful for conserving our of our local frogs and snakes. And you don’t have to bust anything to do it!
