The Atlanta Urban Ecologists program for youth in grades 8 through 12 will guide students in the discovery of the fascinating, rich ecology of Metropolitan Atlanta, providing opportunities for hands-on field experiences, conservation, and community science. ​

Founded through a partnership between Atlanta Audubon, The Amphibian Foundation, and Blue Heron Nature Preserve, Atlanta Urban Ecologists is perfect for students interested in pursuing careers in science or conservation or those who just enjoy being outside in nature. The program provides students with opportunities to learn alongside experts in the field, as well as meaningful experiences in the outdoor places that make Atlanta the “City in a Forest.” Students will establish a network of environmental professionals who can assist with their academic and career development while having fun outdoors with their peers.

Sessions are hosted by a different environmental nonprofit on the second Saturday of each month from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM from October to May.

Partners for the 2019-20 program include Trees Atlanta, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta Audubon, Blue Heron Nature Preserve, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve (DeKalb Co. Parks), The Amphibian Foundation, and Chattahoochee Nature Center.

The Master Herpetologist Certification Program is offered at the Amphibian Foundation and instructed jointly between the Foundation, GA DNR and the Orianne Society.

This intensive class provides an introduction to herpetology and equips participants with amphibian and reptile identification skills and general knowledge of frogs, salamanders, turtles, lizards and snakes — their life histories, habitat requirements and biodiversity.

Instructors: Mark Mandica, Executive Director, Amphibian Foundation; Chris Jenkins, CEO of the Orianne Society; Grover Brown, University of Southern Mississippi; and Daniel Sollenberger, State Herpetologist for Georgia DNR.

Course content includes classification and identification of amphibians and reptiles, 'herping' equipment, frog calls, attracting amphibians/reptiles and backyard wildlife habitat, anatomy and physiology, ecology, behavior, breeding migration, and conservation. This course is a deep dive into the world of amphibians and reptiles, intended to create a foundation of herpetological knowledge upon which students can build.

The course fee includes lectures and 2 field trips, a copy of Amphibians and Reptiles of Georgia (Jensen, et al), a certificate, and a graduation luncheon.

Throughout the year, Master Herpetologists may be offered early bird or discounted registration for workshops and other reptile and amphibian events in and around Georgia, including opportunities for field work in conservation studies.

If you are a land manager, environmental consultant, first responder, zoo professional, herpetology enthusiast, photographer, or private citizen looking to learn how to safely handle and relocate venomous reptiles, this course is for you! This course is two days and is taught on-site at various locations across the United States. We have hosted our course at military installations, nature centers, and conservation facilities. Some general information about the course:

Hands on individual training, guided by our professional instructors.

Handling methods for non-venomous and venomous snakes.

Learn about the life history, toxinology, and ecology of native venomous reptiles.

Emergency field care for envenomation

Methods of relocation

...and more! Spaces are limited, sign up now at: http://www.savethebuzztails.org/training