Reptiles

When young, the common five-lined skink (Plestiodon fasciatus) has a bright blue tail and five lengthwise stripes across its black back. Adult females have similar but less distinct patterning. The blue tail coloration usually fades with age but may be retained by adult females. Adult males are dull brown and develop a widened head and a reddish-orange throat and face during the breeding period. Adults typically range 6–8 inches in length.

Common garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are active mainly during the day and are active through a wider range of temperatures than most snakes. They hibernate from late October through March or early April, but can be found basking on rocks during mild winter days. Common garter snakes hibernate in natural cavities or burrows, such as rodent burrows, crayfish burrows, under rock piles, or in stumps.