Amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, efts, and caecilians) are incredibly diverse and incredibly imperiled. According to the IUCN, 43% of the world’s amphibians are in catastrophic decline or already extinct, more than birds and mammals combined.
This course will cover:
- basic amphibian biology
- anatomy
- conservation and emerging fungal threats
- captive care and housing from basic to advanced
Special emphasis will be placed on the amphibians native to Maryland. The course is designed to support professional animal care staff, nature center staff, and amateur herpetologists, although it is open to anyone interested in amphibians.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Tom Scollins is a New York City native, growing up next to — and many times in — the Bronx Zoo. Tom studied Zoology and Animal Husbandry at the University of Florida and Santa Fe College in Gainesville. He came to Maryland to work in the Herpetology Department at the Baltimore Zoo, where he designed many exhibits and breeding programs for several species. An expert in captive care, handling, and restraint of wildlife, Tom has a passion for education and the conservation of reptiles and amphibians. He has served as Associate Curator of Herpetology at the Natural History Society of Maryland since 2015.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events with fees of $10 or less are not refundable unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
