Posted: September 24, 2025

Written by: Hanna Meyer, Education & Outreach Coordinator

In the fall, many of our local amphibians and reptiles begin seeking safe places to survive the winter. Most frogs, snakes, and turtles in Iowa go into a state called brumation (similar to hibernation) to save energy while food is scarce in the colder months. Help out these reptiles and amphibians by giving them space when you see them and leaving their habitats intact. You can also learn about which species Iowa are protected by Iowa law at: https://www.iowadnr.gov/programs-services/iowas-wildlife/threatened-endangered-wildlife.

Take the quiz here: Knowing Nature – Amphibians & Reptiles

Each Knowing Nature quiz features species found in Winneshiek County. By the end of the year, we’ll have experience identifying over 100 different types of plants, animals, and fungus!

Want to dive deeper into learning about the wildlife of Winneshiek County? Track seasonal changes and natural wonders with our YouTube playlist: “Noting Nature.”

Thank you to Luther College professor, Birgitta Meade, for compiling these “Knowing Nature” quizzes and allowing us to share them with the wider public. Most of the photos in these quizzes were taken by Winneshiek County Conservation naturalist Larry Reis.