Mountain Hamilton
The following photo essay covers some of the reptiles and amphibians I encountered while herping California from July 13-20, 2007. The temperatures were in the high 70s to mid-80s. It was very dry, as the area has been lacking rain.

Woodpeckers perch near a sign indicating that they are protected in this area.

My friend Lenny checks out a metamorphosing American Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). These amphibians are not native to the state and are eating some of California's frogs out of existence.
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American Bullfrogs were found in nearly every location that had water - this invasive species seems to enjoy a California lifestyle.

Western Fence Lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis) were seen in most places we went to - they are very common.
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The Lick Observatory is a place for the study of astronomy, owned and operated by the University of California. It is situated on the summit of Mount Hamilton.

We found this yearling Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis oreganus) but had no collecting equipment. I put it in my shoe so we could retain it for photographs (don't try this at home).
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