Wataru HIMENO– Author –
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Herping in Vietnam: Discovering the Red-necked Keelback and More
Red-necked keelback (scientific name: Rhabdophis subminiatus). When herping in Vietnam, there’s an exciting array of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Among these is the stunning and unique Red-necked keelback (scientific name: Rha... -
How to Find the Blue Ishikawa Frog: A Rare Herping Experience in Okinawa
The blue Okinawa Ishikawa frog (Odorrana ishikawae) The Okinawa Ishikawa frog (Odorrana ishikawae), also known as Ishikawa’s frog, is widely considered Japan’s most beautiful frog species. It’s a highly sought-after speci... -
Encountering the Wild Vietnamese Mossy Frog: A Herping Adventure in Vietnam
Vietnamese mossy frog (Theloderma corticale) What is the Vietnamese Mossy Frog? The Vietnamese mossy frog (Theloderma corticale) is an amphibian species native to northern Vietnam, with possible ranges extending into parts... -
Herping Japan：Ryukyu Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle
Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle (Geoemyda japonica) If you're an avid herper exploring Japan, you’ve likely heard of the Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle (Geoemyda japonica), one of the most elusive and stunning reptiles in Okinawa. T... -
Vietnam Herping: The Rare Morphs of the Oriental Vine Snake
During a recent herping expedition in Vietnam, I had the privilege of being guided by a local friend to a location known for its rare morphs of the Oriental Vine Snake (Ahaetulla prasina). This species, the largest of the vine ... -
Differences and Similarities Between Reptiles and Amphibians
Reptiles and amphibians are often grouped together in discussions, but they are quite distinct from one another. However, both are loved by herping enthusiasts due to their unique charm, which can sometimes blur the lines between them. I... -
Is a “Venomous Frog” Actually Poisonous?
The terms "poison" and "venom" are often used interchangeably, but in reality, they refer to different things. Both are harmful substances that can cause damage to humans and animals, but there is a significant difference in how they act... -
Exploring the Differences Between Snakes and Lizards
Snakes and lizards are both fascinating members of the reptile family, each having evolved unique adaptations over time. They belong to the same order, Squamata, but lead very different lifestyles. These differences span from their appea... -
How to Look for Mamushi Pit Viper(Gloydius blomhoffii): A Guide to Finding the Japanese Pit Viper
The Mamushi, also known as the Japanese pit viper (Gloydius blomhoffii), is a venomous snake indigenous to Japan, spanning Hokkaido to Kyushu. Known for its distinctive triangular head and heat-sensing pits, the Mamushi is a captivating ... -
Discovering the Ornate Earless Agama (Aphaniotis ornata) in Borneo’s Rainforest
Ornate Earless Agama (Aphaniotis ornata) During my time in Borneo, I encountered the Ornate Earless Agama (Aphaniotis ornata). It was a rainy night, and I found it sleeping about 30 cm above the ground. Though these agamas are diurnal, t...
