From fear to fascination

Emil Assing is an Environmental Sciences major at the University of Vermont. He used pen and colored pencils to create the images below. Emil writes,

“These drawings demonstrate how amphibians and reptile species have adapted to use their unique coloration and markings to camouflage themselves in their environment. I hope that, by sharing my artistic depiction and personal experiences, I can help to remove the stigma around these incredible animals. Amphibians and reptiles have historically been persecuted by people who consider them to be vile, creepy, and even dangerous. In my experience, however, these are gentle and charismatic fauna that deserve our love and respect.”