Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge

Reptile and Amphibian Study and the Trail to Eagle

Reptile and Amphibian Study is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.

Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 10 main requirements for Reptile and Amphibian Study. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1
Describe the identifying characteristics of six species of reptiles and four species of amphibians found in the United States.
2
Discuss with your counselor the approximate number of species and general geographic distribution of reptiles and amphibians in the United States.
3
Describe the main differences between amphibians and reptiles, alligators and crocodiles, toads and frogs, snakes and lizards.
4
Explain how reptiles and amphibians are an important component of the natural environment.
5
Compare how reptiles reproduce to how amphibians reproduce.
6
From observation, describe how snakes move forward.
7
Describe in detail six venomous snakes and the one venomous lizard found in the United States.
8
Do ONE of the following: take custody of a reptile or amphibian, or observe one at a zoo or nature center over a period of three months.
9
Do TWO of the following: identify at night three kinds of toads or frogs by their voices, identify by sight eight species of reptiles or amphibians, or give a brief talk using visual aids.
10
Tell five superstitions or false beliefs about reptiles and amphibians and give a correct explanation for each.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge

1. Get a blue card and a counselor

Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Reptile and Amphibian Study, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.

2. Plan around the setting

Reptile and Amphibian Study is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.

3. Budget the time

Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.

4. Track every requirement

Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 10 Reptile and Amphibian Study requirements for you.

Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge FAQ

Is the Reptile and Amphibian Study merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

No. Reptile and Amphibian Study is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.

How long does the Reptile and Amphibian Study merit badge take?

Most scouts finish Reptile and Amphibian Study in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.

Where do scouts usually earn the Reptile and Amphibian Study merit badge?

Reptile and Amphibian Study is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Reptile and Amphibian Study can sign off requirements.