When people think about herping, they often picture well-known species like the American alligator, the green tree python, or the red-eyed tree frog. But there’s a whole world of incredible species that don’t get nearly as much attention. 

1. Malagasy Leaf-nosed Snake (Langaha madagascariensis)  

Found only in Madagascar, the Malagasy leaf-nosed snake is a true expert at blending in. Its long, leaf-like snout helps it disappear among tree branches, making it tricky to spot. Interestingly, males and females have different-shaped snouts, which only adds to the mystery of this species. While it’s mildly venomous, it’s not dangerous to humans. With its bizarre appearance and cryptic behavior, this snake is one of the most unique reptiles out there.  

2. Jackson’s Climbing Salamander (Bolitoglossa jacksoni)  

Once thought to be extinct, the Jackson’s climbing salamander was rediscovered in 2017 in Guatemala. This eye-catching amphibian has bold yellow and black colors and is highly arboreal, meaning it spends most of its life in trees. Unlike many other salamanders, it has webbed feet that help it grip leaves and branches in its cloud forest habitat. Because its range is so limited and its home is threatened by deforestation, conservation efforts are essential to its survival.  

3. Chinese Crocodile Lizard (Shinisaurus crocodilurus)  

Nicknamed the “living dragon,” the Chinese crocodile lizard looks like something from the age of the dinosaurs. It has tough, bony scales, a muscular tail, and a semi-aquatic lifestyle, often basking near water in China and Vietnam. Unlike most lizards, it goes into a hibernation-like state during colder months. Unfortunately, habitat loss and illegal pet trade have put this species at risk, but conservationists are working to protect its dwindling population.  

4. Purple Harlequin Toad (Atelopus barbotini) 

Harlequin toads are known for their vibrant colors, but the purple harlequin toad is one of the most striking, with deep purple and black patterns. Native to the Guiana Shield region, this tiny amphibian faces serious threats from habitat loss and a deadly fungal disease called chytrid fungus. Some herping tours in South America focus on raising awareness about rare species like this one, with funds going toward conservation efforts. Despite their small size, these toads are vital to their ecosystems, and their decline signals bigger environmental problems.  

5. Mexican Mole Lizard (Bipes biporus)

At first glance, the Mexican mole lizard looks more like a giant pink worm than a reptile. It has a long, legless body, but unlike snakes, it has two tiny forelimbs near its head that help it burrow through sandy soil. Native to Baja California, this underground dweller is rarely seen, making it one of the more mysterious reptiles out there. It moves by “swimming” through loose soil, a unique adaptation that allows it to navigate its subterranean world with ease.  

Next time you go herping, take a moment to appreciate the weird, rare, and overlooked species, you never know what you might find! If you want to see some of these animals in their natural habitat, consider joining a herping tour, where experts can help you spot rare reptiles and amphibians while promoting responsible wildlife viewing.