Although numerous species of amphibians and reptiles live in New England and the northeastern Untied States, few people are aware of their existence of know much about their life histories, habitats, or distributions. This illustrated work provides such information, compiling the latest data on nearly sixty species. Included is a detailed account of each species' range, relative abundance, habitat, breeding period (from egg deposition through larval period), home range and movements, and food habitats. Additional comments and selected references are provided throughout.

The book is designed specifically for use in New England. The regional approach makes it possible to examine the details of distribution and habitat preference, important factors because many of these species have local, disjunct populations. The authors stress that these species constitute a valuable resource requiring and deserving conservative measures and urge that reptiles and amphibians be considered in wildlife-managment policy.