In the world of herping, experience is the best teacher, but that doesn’t mean you have to learn everything the hard way. Whether you’re just starting out or have a few decades under your belt, there are common field herping mistakes that even seasoned guys can slip up on. From botched photos to habitat damage, the way we herp matters, not just for safety, but for the well-being of the animals we’re out there to appreciate. Here’s a straight-shooting look at ten common mistakes made in the field, and how to avoid them.

 

1. Not Researching Local Laws

One of the fastest ways to ruin a herping trip is to break a regulation you didn’t know existed. From collection permits to protected species, laws vary wildly by state, country, and park.

Avoid it: Always check with local wildlife agencies before heading out, especially if you plan to photograph, collect data, or handle animals.

 

2. Overhandling Wildlife

Yeah, it’s tempting to hold that big bullfrog or beautiful milk snake. But too much handling stresses animals, messes with their protective coatings (especially amphibians), and increases your risk of being bitten or injured.

Avoid it: Practice “observe and release.” If you do handle a herp, keep it brief and always wet your hands for amphibians.

 

3. Flipping Without Replacing

Flipping rocks and logs is classic herping technique, but too many folks forget the second half: putting it back. Leaving cover objects out of place destroys microhabitats and exposes animals to predators and sun.

Avoid it: Always return rocks and logs exactly how you found them, ideally within 60 seconds.

 

4. Going in Blind

Showing up to a spot without scouting the habitat or knowing the species you’re looking for is a recipe for disappointment.

Avoid it: Read up on local species, seasonal behavior, and ideal weather conditions. Apps like iNaturalist can also be goldmines for spotting trends.

 

5. Skipping the Safety Gear

Snake hooks, long pants, gloves, and boots might seem overkill—until you need them. Thorny brush, venomous snakes, and fire ants don’t care how experienced you are.

Avoid it: Dress for the terrain and bring the right tools for flipping, prodding, or safely inspecting a potential hiding spot.

 

6. Using Flash at Night (the Wrong Way)

Nothing kills your night vision, or that perfect tree frog photo, like a full-powered flash right to the face.

Avoid it: Use red light settings for navigating and diffuse your camera flash to avoid spooking animals.

 

7. Poor Photo Habits

If you’ve ever reviewed your camera roll and found nothing but blurry tails, you know the frustration. Rushed shots or harsh lighting are usually to blame.

Avoid it: Slow down. Use natural light, shoot from eye level, and take multiple angles. A decent phone and a steady hand can go a long way.

 

8. Ignoring Weather and Timing

Reptiles and amphibians don’t run on our schedule. They’re tuned into temps, barometric pressure, and humidity. Hitting a site at the wrong time can mean a whole lot of nothing.

Avoid it: Learn how each species responds to the weather. Some are rain lovers, others bask after storms. Night vs. day makes a huge difference too.

 

9. Trash and Tracks Left Behind

Leaving behind wrappers, footprints in muddy banks, or trampled vegetation not only ruins the spot for others it damages fragile ecosystems.

Avoid it: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on animal paths where possible, and always pack out more than you packed in.

 

10. Going Solo Without Letting Anyone Know

Many herping trips take you off the beaten path. If you get hurt or stranded, no one will know where to find you.

Avoid it: Tell a buddy where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Bonus points if they’re also into herping and join you.

 

Final Thoughts

Mistakes happen, but the best herpers are the ones who learn, adapt, and put the animals first. Whether you’re hitting a local trail or heading out on a full-blown herping tour, these tips will keep you safer, more successful, and more respectful in the field. After all, the goal is to leave the wild better than we found it, and maybe get a killer photo along the way.