By Hannah Dreher

A FIELD guide on reptiles and frogs in the ACT has been updated to assist people with the identification of the different species and to reduce the common misconceptions surrounding the creatures.

“Reptiles & Frogs of the Australian Capital Territory”, compiled by Ross Bennets and published by the National Parks Association, is an updated version of the book that was first published in 1997.

NPA president Rod Griffiths says the book had been out of print for some time and this reprint will meet the regular inquiries received at the NPA about its availability.

“I am confident that this day-pack-friendly guide with its excellent photos will be a valuable tool for any keen herpetologist or naturalist with an interest in amphibians and reptiles, either at home or in the bush,” he said.

As a result of field research since 1997, two new species have been found to live in the ACT – a skink and a legless lizard –  and with more research, they hope more will be discovered.

Ross Bennets is a former ranger with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service and founder of the Australian Reptile Centre in Canberra. He has a life long passion for cold blooded creatures and their conservation.

The book will be launched at the Namadgi Visitor Centre, 12.15 pm on Sunday, December 11.

More information at www.npaact.org.au.