Third Eye - Herping California  
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Creek Creekside
Interesting things can often be found in woodland streams.
Huge Slug The Huge Slug of the Day
Everybody loves gigantic gastropods!
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Ensatina Woodland Wonder
The Ensatina (Ensatina eschscholtzi) is a salamander that can be found under rocks and rotting logs. When threatened, it assumes a stiff-legged stance, with its tail elevated and arched.
Millipede Hundred-legger
There were several of these colorful yellow and black millipedes in the places where I was herping.
Fence Lizard Sleeping on the Job
This fence lizard was taking a daytime snooze under a rock, making it easy to catch.
Field Field Herping
Open fields with rocks are good habitats to explore.
Deer Lazy Sunday
There was quite a bit of non-herp wildlife to be seen, such as turkey, birds of prey, skunks, fox and deer. This doe was relaxing and apparently untroubled by my presence.
Arboreal Salamander Champion Climber
The Arboreal Salamander (Aneides lugubris) can be found in trees, climbing as high as 60 feet. It can sqeak like a mouse and unlike most salamanders, it bites. They can grow to over 7 inches in length.
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Ringneck Snake Ring Around the Neck
The Pacific Ringneck Snake (Diadophis puntatus amabilis) is a small, slender serpent with a distinctive ring of color around its neck. They are a secretive species.
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Ringneck Snake Bright Bottom
These snakes will often twist their tail into a corkscrew-like shape and elevate it to frighten predators. The undersides of ringneck snakes are brilliantly colored.
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Ringneck Snake Snake Fan
Connie, age 2, holds her first snake.
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End Here's Where the Story Ends
Thanks to everyone who provided hospitality and help on this California quest!
Click here to see Photos from 2005