Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC

11/03/2025

🌟 Throwback to an Exciting Collaboration! 🌟

Nine years ago, H**petological Resource and Management had the honor of collaborating with Eastern Michigan University to present groundbreaking research on Northern Mudpuppies (NMP). This partnership not only highlighted the ecological importance of these fully aquatic salamanders but also laid the foundation for the critical conservation work we continue today.

Fast forward to 2024, and we’re thrilled to announce our latest project in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Coastal Program! 🎉 We’re kicking off an ambitious effort to collect eDNA samples for Northern Mudpuppies and Salamander Mussels across approximately 125 miles of coastal habitat, from the St. Clair River to Western Lake Erie.

Did you know? Michigan’s Northern Mudpuppies are not only vital bioindicators of environmental health but also serve as obligate hosts for the State-endangered Salamander Mussel. Sadly, NMP populations have declined due to habitat loss, degradation, and invasive species, making this work more urgent than ever.

This project combines traditional sampling methods with cutting-edge eDNA analysis to identify high-priority conservation areas and guide habitat restoration efforts. In partnership with the Detroit Zoo’s Amphibian Center, we’re also creating and restoring nearshore habitats to optimize NMP survival while benefiting other aquatic species.

But we’re not stopping there! We’re committed to engaging and educating our communities through training workshops, social media outreach, and our Survey 123 app. Together, we can empower local communities to participate in data collection and learn about the vital role NMPs play in our ecosystems—including their role in controlling invasive species.

This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the progress we’ve made since that first presentation nine years ago. Stay tuned for updates, and join us in protecting these incredible species and their habitats!

💙 Together, we can make a difference for Michigan’s wildlife and waterways. 💙

**petology

27/02/2025

🚀 Exciting News from H**petological Resource and Management (HRM)! 🐍

At HRM, we’re thrilled to continue our commitment to education and professional development! Our team is currently diving into mine safety training, ensuring we uphold the highest standards while working in diverse environments. Safety and sustainability go hand in hand, and we’re proud to prioritize both.

As leaders in herpetological conservation, we partner with a wide range of clients to deliver best management practices and impact minimization strategies, particularly for industries like mining. Our mission? To protect and preserve rare and imperiled amphibians and reptiles while balancing the needs of development and conservation.

From habitat assessments to species-specific protection measures, HRM is dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve. 🌍

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow, learn, and innovate in the field of herpetological conservation!

**petology

20/02/2025

🌊 Exciting News from H**petological Resource and Management! 🦎
Our team is thrilled to share that we’ve kicked off an important project in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Coastal Program! We’re collecting eDNA samples for Northern Mudpuppies (NMP) and Salamander Mussels as the first steps in this critical conservation effort.
Did you know? Michigan is home to the Northern Mudpuppy, a fully aquatic salamander that serves as a vital bioindicator of environmental health and an obligate host to the State-endangered Salamander Mussel. Unfortunately, NMP populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss, degradation, and invasive species, making conservation efforts more urgent than ever.
This project will assess NMP populations across approximately 125 miles of coastal habitat, stretching from the St. Clair River to Western Lake Erie. By combining traditional sampling methods with cutting-edge eDNA analysis, we’ll identify high-priority conservation areas and guide habitat restoration efforts.
But that’s not all! In partnership with the Detroit Zoo’s Amphibian Center, we’re creating and restoring several nearshore habitat locations to optimize NMP habitat. These habitats will provide flat surfaces for shelter, nesting, and nursery grounds—key for NMP survival—while also benefiting other aquatic species like fish and macroinvertebrates.
We’re also committed to community engagement and education. Coming soon we will begin training workshops, social media outreach, and promote our Survey 123 app, we’ll empower local communities to participate in data collection and learn about the vital role NMPs play in our ecosystems—including their role in controlling harmful invasive species.
This project is a big step toward enhancing ecosystem resilience and biodiversity in the Great Lakes region. Stay tuned for updates, and join us in protecting these incredible species and their habitats!
💙 Together, we can make a difference for Michigan’s wildlife and waterways. 💙
Survey123 QR code added

14/02/2025

🌟 What an inspiring day at Holt Jr. High! 🌟

H**petological Resource and Management (HRM) had the incredible opportunity to participate in their Career Pathway Day. We got to chat with students about what it’s like to be a wildlife biologist and share our passion for conservation, reptiles, amphibians, and the natural world.

It was such a rewarding experience to connect with the next generation of curious minds and hopefully spark some interest in wildlife careers. Big thanks to Holt Jr. High for inviting us to be part of this special day—we loved every minute of it!

Here’s to shaping the future of conservation, one student at a time. 🐍🐢🌿

03/02/2025

🌿 **Calling All Wildlife Enthusiasts!** 🌿
🚨 **We’re Hiring: Seasonal Wildlife Technicians (Field) – Full Time** 🚨

Do you live for the thrill of the outdoors and have a passion for amphibians and reptiles? 🐸🐍 H**petological Resource and Management (HRM) is seeking **Seasonal Wildlife Technicians** to join our team in **Michigan** and help protect the state’s incredible biodiversity!

🔑 **What We’re Looking For:**
✔️ **Amphibian & Reptile ID Pros**: Can you identify Michigan’s species by sight and sound?
✔️ **Fieldwork Fanatics**: Experience with wildlife surveys, habitat restoration, and data collection.
✔️ **Outdoor Adventurers**: Ready to hike up to 5 miles, carry 30 lbs, and tackle rugged terrain in all weather conditions.
✔️ **Detail-Oriented Team Players**: Strong organizational skills and a love for hands-on conservation work.

🌟 **Bonus Points For:**
- Familiarity with **ArcGIS Pro** and database management.
- Experience writing technical reports.
- At least **1 year of professional wildlife survey work**.

📅 **Season:** Early April – late September (with potential extension into October).
💼 **Compensation:** $16.00–$18.50/hour (based on experience) + **benefits, mileage reimbursement, and PTO**.
📍 **Location:** Based in Michigan, with fieldwork, overnight stays, and week-long assignments.

🌱 **Why Join Us?**
This is your chance to make a **real impact** on wildlife conservation while working hands-on with Michigan’s amazing amphibian and reptile species. You’ll be part of a team dedicated to protecting and restoring habitats for some of the state’s most unique creatures.

📩 **How to Apply:**
Submit your **resume, cover letter, and three references** via **Indeed** or **LinkedIn**. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so don’t wait!

🗓️ **Deadline:** March 1, 2025

🔗 **Apply Now and Help Protect Michigan’s Wildlife!**
👉 [LinkedIn Application](https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4128418271)
👉 [Indeed Application](https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=d3dd0542852b27a6)

Join us in making a difference for Michigan’s amphibians, reptiles, and ecosystems! 🌟🐢🐍

03/02/2025

🌿🐢 Huge thanks to the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council for hosting a great icebreaker presentation on Conservation and Best Management Practices for Amphibians and Reptiles in Michigan! It was an honor to share insights on protecting these incredible species and their habitats.
📢 Missed it? You can check out the presentation here: https://watershedcouncil.org/resources/reference-library/ice-breakers/
🔎 Be sure to follow the Watershed Council for more fantastic talks on conservation and environmental stewardship! **petology
Ice Breaker Series - Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
Current Reflections is a Watershed Council publication that features current events and educational articles.

Current Reflections is a Watershed Council publication that features current events and educational articles.

27/01/2025

It’s always awesome to see so many mudpuppy contributions rolling in! 🐾 Every report helps shine a light on these incredible salamanders and their role in Michigan’s ecosystems. Keep up the great work, and don’t forget to submit your sightings to the Michigan H**p Atlas! 🌊🐾

🐾🎣 Catch, Release, and Report: Mudpuppies in Winter! ❄️🐾

Did you know Michigan's native mudpuppies are often spotted during ice fishing? These fascinating aquatic salamanders are a vital part of our ecosystems, they even help control invasive zebra mussels and brown goby and their populations are being closely monitored. If you happen to catch one:

1️⃣ Handle with Care: Mudpuppies are harmless! Gently release them back into the water after snapping a quick photo.
2️⃣ Report Your Sighting: Contribute to conservation efforts by submitting your observations to the Michigan H**p Atlas at miherpatlas.org. Your data helps researchers protect these incredible creatures!
3️⃣ Spread Awareness: Not all anglers are familiar with mudpuppies. Educating others ensures these salamanders remain protected.

Let’s work together to keep Michigan’s amphibians thriving. 🌊🐾

📸 Credit: ckylelindsay

**pConservation

27/01/2025

🚨 We're Hiring! Seasonal Wildlife Technicians (Field) – Full Time 🚨
Are you passionate about amphibians and reptiles? Do you thrive in the outdoors and love contributing to wildlife conservation? H**petological Resource and Management (HRM) is looking for skilled professionals to join our team as Seasonal Wildlife Technicians Field in Michigan!

🔑 Key Qualifications:
✔️ Amphibian and Reptile ID Expertise: Must be able to identify Michigan species by sight, sound.
✔️ Field experience with wildlife surveys, habitat restoration, and data collection.
✔️ Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in various field conditions (remote locations, harsh weather).
✔️ Physical fitness for hiking up to 5 miles while carrying up to 30 lbs.

🌟 Preferred Skills:

Familiarity with ArcGIS Pro and database management.
Technical report writing experience.
At least 1 year of professional wildlife survey work.
📅 Season: Early April – late September (potential extension into October).

💼 Compensation: $16.00–$18.50/hour (based on experience) + benefits, mileage reimbursement, and PTO.

📍 Location: Based in Michigan, with significant fieldwork, overnight stays, and week-long assignments.

How to Apply:
Submit your resume, cover letter, and three references via Indeed or LinkedIn. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early!

🗓️ Deadline: March 1, 2025

This is your chance to make a tangible impact on wildlife conservation while working hands-on with Michigan’s incredible amphibian and reptile species. 🐢🐍🐸

🔗 Apply today and join a team dedicated to protecting Michigan’s biodiversity!

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4128418271

https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=d3dd0542852b27a6&from=shareddesktop

H**petological Resource and Management

25/12/2024

Happy Holidays from the HRM Team! 🎄🐢🐸🦎🐍

As we reflect on the year, we're filled with gratitude for the work we do in herpetology and environmental conservation. Thank you for your continued support of our efforts to protect amphibians, reptiles, and their habitats. We're looking forward to an exciting and impactful year ahead in 2025!

**petology

23/12/2024

HRM has been actively working on headstart and assurance colony work for over 20 years. Headstarting involves the captive rearing of hatchlings, turtles and tortoises from eggs collected in the wild or from assurance colonies. The hatchlings are released once they hatch or held for several months to help them avoid heavy predation pressure during their most vulnerable age from egg to one-year. HRM has assisted with Wood Turtle, Blanding’s Turtle, Eastern Box Turtle, and Spotted Turtle project as well as headstarting all native turtle species.

Our team also works to help release confiscated and displaced reptiles and amphibians back to their habitat once they are healthy, clear of any risk of disease transmission, and as part of conservation efforts.

**petology **ps

18/12/2024

Today we are talking about the importance of an informed land management plan in turtle conservation. The first step, of course, is completing a thorough survey of the property to assess turtle populations. Understanding turtle ecology, what kind of habitats they utilize, and their reproduction cycle are vital in sustaining turtle numbers. Some may be surprised to know that it takes turtles many years to reach sexual maturity. These animals need a long lifespan to have reproductive success. This means every turtle is vital to the continuation of the species.

17/12/2024

We would like to take a minute to remind everyone about the great tool, The MI H**p HAT. The Michigan H**petological Habitat Assessment Tool, or MI H**p HAT, is a critical conservation tool designed to do exactly what its name describes: assess the quality of Michigan wetland habitat using amphibians and reptiles (i.e. herpetofauna) as a metric. H**petofauna helps maintain wetland ecosystems through important ecological services including seed dispersal, soil aeration, shelter creation, and plant diversification. They also serve as critical predators, prey, and scavengers, serving critical roles in ecosystem function and maintaining strong biodiversity. Amphibians and reptiles are uniquely suited to serve as indicators of habitat quality because of their acute sensitivity to human disturbance and environmental change. HRM created the H**p HAT in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to strengthen our ability to conserve and manage native herpetofauna, our most imperiled group of vertebrates before it’s too late. https://www.herprman.com/herp-hat/