Statewide
South Dakota Reptiles and Amphibians by Month
Every reptile and amphibian with enough records anywhere in South Dakota, counted from observations inside the state line. Seasons can differ a lot across the state, so for a closer match, pick your ecoregion on the South Dakota page.
18 species1 venomous
Peak and shoulder ratings are rough guidance, not a schedule. Weather, elevation and the year can shift any species by weeks.
Rare and protected species are left off on purpose. Look, don't take, and never handle a venomous snake.
Species out in South Dakota, by group and month
| Group | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snakes | 1 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 | ||||
| Lizards | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||||||
| Turtles | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | ||||
| Frogs and Toads | 1 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 | ||||
| Salamanders | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Numbers = species active that month (at peak or just starting / winding down).
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15 species at peak or shoulder in September
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shoulderAbout South Dakota
When are reptiles and amphibians most active in South Dakota?
May is the busiest month in South Dakota, with 14 species at peak activity. At least half of the area's species are active from April through October.
What reptiles and amphibians live in South Dakota?
18 species have enough iNaturalist records to show here: 8 snakes, 6 frogs and toads, 2 turtles, 1 salamander, and 1 lizard. The most-reported are the Painted Turtle, Northern Leopard Frog, and Plains Garter Snake.
Are there venomous snakes in South Dakota?
Yes. The Prairie Rattlesnake lives here. Don't handle them.
Where does this data come from?
Activity calendars are built from iNaturalist research-grade observations (downloaded through GBIF, September 2026), corrected for how many people are out observing each month. Rare and protected species are left off on purpose.