Camp Edgewood Herpetology Day
Reptile & Amphibian Study Merit Badge Experience
Where: Camp Edgewood
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Who: Scouts BSA & Adults
Cost: $20 per participant
What Is This Event?
Join us for a hands-on outdoor science experience led by a professional herpetologist!
Scouts will learn about reptiles and amphibians, then head into the field to catch and study real frogs as part of an active research project.
What Scouts Will Learn
Our guest herpetologist, will lead an interactive session covering:
- Identifying frog species (5–10) and basic snake identification (venomous vs. non-venomous)
- Differences between lizards, salamanders, skinks, geckos, and newts
- Frogs vs. toads
- Snakes vs. legless lizards
- Safe capture techniques for reptiles and amphibians
- Snake bite response and safety
- Why amphibian research matters
- Tips for catching frogs at night
Real Research Experience
In the afternoon, scouts will assist with a real-world research project studying Southern Leopard Frogs.
- Catch frogs using dip nets (long-handled ~4–6 ft recommended)
- Observe and handle them safely
- Assist with collecting scientific data
Goal: Collect and sample at least 5 frogs as a group.
Scouts will be divided into smaller groups if needed based on attendance.
Schedule
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM: Presentation (Dining Hall)
- 10:30 – 12:00 PM: Lunch &Free time (Trading Post open for snacks and drinks)
- 12:00 – 2:30 PM: Field research (frog collection)
- 2:30 – 3:30 PM: Break (Trading Post open for snacks and drinks)
- 3:30 – 4:00 PM: Presentation (Dining Hall)
- 4:00 – 5:30 PM: Field research (frog collection)
- 5:30 – 6:00 PM: Closing Talk (Dining Hall)
What to Bring
- Long pants
- Bug spray & sunscreen
- Hat
- Rubber boots or closed-toe shoes (no waders)
- Change of clothes
- Bagged lunch
- Dip net (long-handled; fishing nets will not work due to large holes)
- Sandwich bags
- Optional: gloves, binoculars, small critter carrier
- Cash for Trading Post (snacks and drinks available during breaks)
Merit Badge Progress
This event will allow scouts to complete portions of the Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge.
While it is not a full merit badge class, scouts can expect to complete approximately 30–50% of the requirements with active participation.
We’ll provide a worksheet to help track what they complete.
Important Notes
- This is an outdoor, hands-on activity — scouts may get wet or muddy
- Safety guidelines will be followed at all times
- Adult participation is welcome and encouraged
Come ready to learn, explore, and get a little muddy!
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Camp Edgewood Herpetology Day May 16, 2026
Register Today
| File Name | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Health and Medical Record (AB Only) | Be sure to check at https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/ for the latest form. Forms should be filled out before arriving at event and should remain with the unit/person (unless requested to be turned in at the registration desk.) | Download |
| Herpetology Merit Badge Day Flyer | Join us for a hands-on outdoor science experience led by a professional herpetologist! Scouts will learn about reptiles and amphibians, then head into the field to catch and study real frogs as part of an active research project. | Download |
| Refund Policy | Refund requests for activities and trainings by the Calcasieu Area Council must be made in writing via mail, fax, or email. The date of the request and reason determines eligibility. For details, please read this Refund Policy. | Download |