Families invited to tally crawly critters in Clark County

The Water Resources Education Center is hosting the 18th annual Critter Count, a spring survey of amphibians and reptiles in Clark County.

The Critter Count is for families and people of all ages to discover the snakes, frogs, newts and other crawly creatures at designated sites. Understanding the animal populations also gives local officials a clearer picture of the area’s waterways.

Counters will undergo a brief training at 9 a.m. April 14, at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 S.E. Columbia Way. The groups will then go to counting sites.

Field guides and biologists will teach participants about the world of herpetology using slides, stories and tips to identify amphibians and reptiles. The introduction will last an hour. Volunteers will be paired with field biologists and carpool to one of four sites. For about three hours, they will search for and identify the critters.

Participants should bring boots, warm clothes, a jacket, lunch and, if possible, binoculars. Snacks, drinks and equipment will be provided.

From 1 to 3 p.m., the water center will provide an up-close look at snakes, lizards and more reptiles, during a Second Saturday event.

The shows start at 1 and 2 p.m. Audience members will hear about reptiles and amphibians living in their backyards, and what they can do to protect the creatures and provide them with clean water.

Admission is free. Families are encouraged to attend the events. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.