Welcome to the Kids Zone!
Here you’ll be able to find some fun and interesting activities for all ages. For younger herpetologists-in-the-making we have printable colouring pages of BC herpetofauna, drawing guides, and step-by-step instructions on how to build your own Toad Abode. For more of a challenge there are quizzes to test your knowledge and species identification, and a crossword puzzle featuring terminology related to amphibians and reptiles. (Hint: the Species Accounts are helpful for these!) There is something here for everyone – even adults!
Feel free to use any of the material from this website in your classroom! We know that digital material doesn’t replace hands-on interactions with these species, but we discourage bringing any reptiles or amphibians (including egg masses, tadpoles, or larva) from the wild into the classroom, as it is illegal to do so without a permit according to the BC Wildlife Act.
Collecting tadpoles and eggs can lead to disease transfer as well as the spread of invasive species such as bullfrogs. It is also extremely hard to provide proper conditions for eggs and tadpoles and they often do not survive in “home” raising. This can lead to mass deaths and species decline, which is problematic for species at risk. It is best to leave tadpoles and eggs where you found them.
Consider using alternative methods for teaching amphibian life cycles and ecology such as through videos or by visiting a local pond. Additionally, you may be able to connect with local biologists who can assist in wildlife education through presentations or field visits.
Credit: Taylor Goforth
Oregon Spotted Frog
Credit: Ian Adams
Rocky Mountain Tailed Frog
Credit: David Bradford
Bullfrog
Colouring Pages
Quizzes
Ready to test your knowledge on reptiles and amphibians? Check out our quizzes and see if you’re up to the challenge!
Herpetologist Game
Observe the reptiles and amphibians of British Columbia in their natural habitats. Try your luck at finding all of them!
Crossword Puzzles
Think you know your reptile and amphibian lingo? Download these puzzles and see how many terms you can figure out! (Hint: Use the glossary to help if you’re stuck!)
Make Your Own Toad Abode
If you would like to provide the creatures that come into your yard with some refuge try out this easy craft! Although the catchy name may sound like it would only work for toads, all sorts of amphibians and reptiles could use this little shelter. The great thing about a Toad Abode is that you can make it as simple or extravagant as you want! The animals likely won’t mind how their house is decorated, but it is fun to get creative and have a cute addition for your yard or garden.
The only necessary material is a pot that you can flip upside down. If the pot has a large crack on the rim, that makes a great doorway! Otherwise, you will need to prop your unbroken pot up with a rock. Beyond that, you can choose any decorations you like. We used paint, glue, and some items to use as decorations like wooden shapes, shells, and acorns. Just make sure whatever you use to decorate the pots with isn’t toxic and won’t wash off in the rain.
Have fun decorating your Toad Abode! It can be as plain or crazy as you like. We painted some flowers and clouds, glued on our decorations, and even made a little sign – what a shame reptiles and amphibians can’t read! Come up with your own idea of what you want your Toad Abode to look like. You could even try painting pictures of the animals you hope to attract to your yard.
Choosing your location carefully is important so that the reptiles and amphibians will like their new neighbourhood. They are usually attracted to areas near moisture and in the shade. If you have an unbroken pot, make sure you prop it up with a big enough rock so that the animals can fit inside. Alternatively you can bury the pot in the ground on its side, to ensure that animals do not get trapped in your pot!
Congratulations, you have made your very own Toad Abode! Check on your abode to see if anyone moves in, but remember not to disturb the residents.
