Article Overview: Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska
Alaska, renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, is often associated with towering mountains, vast glaciers, and iconic mammals like bears and moose. However, beneath the surface of its rugged terrain lies a lesser-known world inhabited by a few cold-blooded critters. In this article, we’ll explore the reptiles and amphibians that call Alaska home. From elusive frogs hiding in dense southeastern rain forests to the occasional sea turtle sighting, we delve into the often overlooked denizens of the Last Frontier.
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My Experience with Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska
I know most folks consider the lack of snakes in Alaska to be a good thing, but I like the slithering reptiles. Growing up snakes were the one major issue that Indiana and I differed on, ultimately it lead me to dress up as Han Solo for most Halloweens.
Now that I’m grown I can appreciate peoples fear of snakes, especially having to spend so much time in the woods while I’m working on Alaska tv shows. I’ve known Alaska didn’t have snakes for a long time, its an easy fact to boast about if you’re a proud resident. And to be honest I thought the state didn’t have any reptiles or amphibians, being cold blooded in a super cold environment and all.
So I was super surprised to come across a tiny toad on one of my last trips north. I was filming a moose hunt in Southeast, Alaska and spotted a Western toad in between the coast line and forrest. It caught me off guard and for a moment I let the hunter get a ways ahead of me while I inspected it. I’ve spent over a decade working in Alaska without seeing any other reptiles or amphibians, so it sent me down a rabbit hole to see what else I didn’t know. The follow is what I found out, hope you enjoy, and never stop exploring!
Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska
Table of Contents:
Amphibians in Alaska
From the tranquil calls of frogs echoing through marshlands to the sleek bodies of salamanders gracefully navigating pristine rivers and streams, these cold-blooded critters are an astonishing story of determination and survival in Alaska.
Columbia Spotted Frog (Rana luteiventris)
The Columbia Spotted Frog is an amphibian species native to western North America, including southeastern Alaska. These frogs prefer a variety of habitats, including marshes, ponds, and permanent rivers and streams. Their distinctive spotted pattern and unique habitat preferences make them a fascinating addition to Alaska’s diverse amphibian fauna.
Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica)
The Wood Frog is one of the more common amphibians found in Alaska. These resilient amphibians are well adapted to cold climates and are often found in forested areas, wetlands, and tundra regions. It’s believed they even inhabit the north slope above the brooks range, which let me tell ya, humans shouldn’t even live there! Known for their ability to survive freezing temperatures by entering a state of suspended animation, Wood Frogs are an incredible example of adaptability and resilience.
Western Toad (Bufo boreas)
This is the only reptile or amphibian I have personally seen in Alaska. It is commonly found in western North America, including southeastern Alaska. These toads inhabit various habitats such as forests, meadows, and wetlands, where they can be found near bodies of water during the breeding season. While not as abundant as in other regions, sightings these amphibians in Alaska are reported, particularly in suitable breeding grounds.
Rough-skin Newt (Taricha granolas)
The Rough-skinned Newt takes its time growing up in Alaska, full metamorphosis from larvae to adult is thought to take two years! These newts are typically found in moist habitats such as forests, swamps, and slow moving streams with lots of vegetation. If you find yourself on a silly survival show in Alaska, don’t eat these amphibians, they are extremely toxic!
Long-toed Salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum)
The Long-toed Salamander can be hard to find, considering adults spend most of their lives underground! The exception being to go on a hot date and procreate of course! These Alaska amphibians hang out in the southeastern region of the state.
Northwestern Salamander (Ambystoma gracile)
The Northwestern Salamander is lesser know and studied than other amphibians in Alaska. But we do know they typically prefer freshwater ponds and lakes in the southeastern region of Alaska. While its range extends into neighboring areas, sightings of the Northwestern Salamander in Alaska are rare.
Reptiles Found in Alaska
In Alaska, reptile sightings are exceptionally rare, the only exceptions being encounters with sea turtles or their carcasses. Since 1960 theres only been 39 documented sightings within the state. Apart from these infrequent sea turtles occurrences, Alaska lacks any other reptilian inhabitants.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The Leatherback Sea Turtle is the most common the uncommon reptiles in Alaska. Renowned for its distinctively smooth black or dark blue shell, it differs significantly from other sea turtle species with its lack of a hard shell. Typically found in tropical and temperate waters, sightings of Leatherback Sea Turtles in Alaska are exceptionally rare, theres only been 19. The Alaska Department of Fish and game suggests that these reptiles enjoy feeding on the states rich cold water jellyfish population, and is reason for their presence.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The aptly named Green Sea Turtle is commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. While Alaska is well beyond this reptiles typical range, sporadic sightings of Green Sea Turtles have been reported along the state’s coast. Unfortunately for these Alaska reptiles, the trend in Green sea turtle sightings has been of their carcasses. Scientist aren’t sure of the reason, but there are suspicions around climate change and population distribution.
Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, known for its olive-green shell and relatively small size compared to other sea turtle species, typically inhabits warm tropical and subtropical waters. However, rare sightings of these remarkable reptiles have been reported in southeastern Alaska, far north of their usual range.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
The Loggerhead Sea Turtle, characterized by its large head and reddish-brown shell, is primarily found in warmer oceanic regions worldwide. While Alaska is far from this reptiles typical habitat, there have been two sightings of these reptiles in Alaska; one near Kodiak island and the other near Kruzof island.
No Snakes in Alaska!
In the thrilling tale of Alaska’s untamed wilderness, there’s a notable absence that even Indiana Jones would appreciate: snakes! Just like Dr. Jones, Alaska isn’t too keen on snakes. With its icy winters and rugged terrain, Alaska’s landscape isn’t exactly snake friendly. These cold-blooded reptiles crave warmth, and Alaska’s chilly climate simply doesn’t provide it.
Now, there have been whispers of garter snake sightings in the Southeastern region of Alaska, but nothing official. The state needs “targeted surveys and specimens” to confirm these reports. In neighboring British Columbia, three species of garter snakes thrive naturally. The drier and warmer climate on the opposite side of the coastal mountains offers a more favorable habitat.
It’s speculated that major upriver flooding events periodically propel snakes toward the coast through drainage areas such as the Taku, Stikine, and Unuk Rivers, which serve as corridors through the mountains to the coast. Scientist don’t believe the snakes can establish themselves in Alaska once they arrive because of the harsh winters. It’s like a cryptic clue in an adventure movie, but I suppose Indian won’t be up for the task.
And it’s not just snakes that are missing from Alaska’s wilderness. There are no freshwater turtles or lizards either. Cold blooded critters simply need more warmth than the state can provide. This does leave the stage open for the other stars to shine. Wolves, moose, and bears, oh my!
Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska (Post Summary)
Just to recap, here’s a simple list of all the reptiles and amphibians in Alaska:
- Columbia Spotted Frog
- Wood Frog
- Western Toad
- Roughskin Newt
- Long-toed Salamander
- Northwestern Salamander
- Green Sea Turtle
- Leatherback Sea Turtle
- Loggerhead Sea Turtle
- Olive Ridley Sea Turtle
Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska: Conclusion
Not everyone can handle the cold terrain of Alaska, and understandably so for our cold blooded reptile friends. With the exception of a few salamanders, frogs, and hearty migrating sea turtles, Alaska is just too damn cold for reptiles and amphibians. But its abundant population of large mammals more than makes up for it! From majestic bears roaming the forests to playful otters frolicking in the rivers, Alaska’s wildlife offers a captivating spectacle at every turn. So, while you might not spot a snake or lizard sunbathing in the Last Frontier, you’re sure to be enthralled by the diverse array of furry and feathery friends that call this wild land home.
Reptiles & Amphibians in Alaska: Resources & References
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Turtles in Alaska: Joshua Ream
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