Amphibians and Reptiles of High Park

The types of habitat that support the highest reptile and amphibian diversity include moist forests, wet meadows, temporary spring pools and marshes. In Toronto much of this habitat has been lost or made less suitable due to drainage and changes in water tables. Fortunately, the High Park wetlands and forests still support a number of native reptiles and amphibians, as well as the non-native Red-eared Slider turtle.

You May Spot

  • Turtles - 3 species
  • Snakes - 2 species
  • Frogs and Toads - 3 species
  • Salamanders - 1 species

Herp Lists

  • Amphibians and Reptiles currently on record, Table 2 (excerpt from 2002 High Park Woodland & Savannah Management Plan). PDF (395 Kb).
Midland Painted Turtle. Photo: Colin Marcano
Midland Painted Turtle. Photo: Colin Marcano

You can help monitor and protect herps in High Park!

Find out how to submit your observations of reptiles and amphibians to iNaturalist

Check out Toronto Zoo’s Adopt-A-Pond Wetland Conservation Programme to find out out what else you can do.

Biodiversity Booklet Series

Includes: Birds, Butterflies, Spiders, Fishes, Mammals, Bees, Reptiles and Amphibians, Mushrooms, and Trees, Shrubs and Vines of Toronto. Free copies may be available at your local Toronto Public Library branch. To find out more about these free guidebooks or to download a pdf version, visit the City of Toronto's Biodiversity website.

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