Keep Wildlife Wild: Safe & Ethical Herping

The Mojave Desert is a wonderland for herpers (enthusiasts who love to view reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats). In this class, learn how to #KeepWildlifeWild while getting an incredible glimpse into the lives of these charismatic creatures. The class covers guidelines, ethics, and safety of herping on public and private lands. You will have the opportunity to meet the instructor’s ambassador animals and observe reptile habitats in the Black Rock area.

NOTE: Absolutely no animal handling of any kind is permitted in Joshua Tree National Park. Desert Institute has a zero-tolerance policy for feeding, handling, capturing, or harassing the park’s wildlife. Violators will be removed from the class without refund.

• This class is held at Black Rock, with the classroom portion taking place in the Black Rock Nature Center education room.

• Anyone may attend! No experience or expertise is required.

• No park pass is required.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

Activity level: The indoor portion of this class is ADA accessible. It requires very little travel with ADA accommodations, such as accessible parking, available.

The outdoor portion is leisurely and can be modified to accommodate participants. It requires less than 2 miles of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain. Please email desertinstitute@joshuatree.org if you need specific accommodations.

Required items for participants: 

• Proper clothing attire

• Closed-toe shoes

• Water

• Pen and paper for note-taking

Any other pertinent information: There will be a presentation on the types of burrows in the park, as well as a short walk around the campground and look for animal burrows!

Meet your instructor: Jane (Spider) Fawke is a retired park ranger and amateur herpetologist. She has lived in Joshua Tree since 2004. She is a graduate of the UCR Palm Desert Master Naturalist and Master Climate Steward courses.

Photo credit: Desert Institute/Riley Vallo