In this course you will develop an ability to understand the biological and ecological characteristics of reptiles and amphibians as well as relevant conservation issues and how to keep them at home.

Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. The term is derived from Linneas’s classification in which he combined reptiles and amphibians into the one category. Herpetology examines the biology and ecology of these animals and their importance at a global scale. Herpetology as a scientific study and as a hobby can have positive impacts on the conservation of threatened reptile and amphibian species.

There are 9 lessons in this course:

1. Introduction to Herpetology
2. Class Reptilia (Reptiles)
3. Reptile Biology
4. Class Amphibia (Amphibians)
5. Amphibian Biology
6. Ecology of Reptiles
7. Ecology of Amphibians
8. Conservation Issues
9. Keeping Reptiles and Amphibians

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school\'s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

• Discuss the nature and scope of reptiles.
• Identify credible resources, and begin to develop networking with organisations and individuals involved with the study of reptiles around the world.
• Describe a range of different reptile species, including distinguishing characteristics, their needs (eg. environmental, food, etc) and behaviour.
• Identify and explain the anatomy and physiology of reptiles
• Discuss the nature and scope of amphibians
• Discuss the nature and scope of amphibians
• Describe the ecological requirements, reproduction and lifecycles of amphibians
• Describe the behaviour of a range of different amphibian species.
• Explain conservation issues that are impacting upon populations of reptiles and amphibians.
• Explain the management of reptiles and amphibians in captivity