Who we are
At the Field Herping Network (FHN), we believe that exploring the world’s reptiles and amphibians should be more than a checklist of species; it should be an ethical and purposeful journey. Our expeditions are designed for everyone from wildlife photographers and adventurous field herpers to students, early-career scientists, and conservation-minded travellers. Whether you want to take world-class photos, to understand the work of local NGOs, or to design your own field project, you are welcome here!
Ethical and responsible herping
We follow a “wildlife-first” principle in everything we do.
Our expeditions operate with required permits, respect for local regulations, and a commitment to responsible field practices. We never put animals at risk for photographs or encounters; instead, we prioritise minimal disturbance, safe handling (where appropriate), and behaviour-focused observations. Ethical interaction isn’t an afterthought, it’s the foundation of our work. We want to demonstrate a way for people to be close to nature and wildlife without high levels of exploitation.
Exploring understudied regions
We specialise in taking participants into uncharted and under-surveyed regions around the world, places where herpetological diversity is high but scientific attention has been limited. These expeditions aren’t just about visiting exotic locations, they’re about contributing to the understanding and conservation of species that truly need it.
Targeting unique and understudied species
Many of our trips focus on ecosystems rich in endemic, cryptic, or little-known species. From rare montane amphibians to isolated island reptiles, we seek wildlife that is often overlooked by mainstream ecotourism. For photographers, this means access to animals few have ever documented. For students and naturalists, it means the chance to work with species that remain scientifically mysterious.
Working with local scientists and NGOs
We collaborate closely with local researchers, naturalists, conservation organisations, and community partners. Their expertise guides our logistics and planning, and ensures that our presence benefits local conservation efforts rather than burdens them. These partnerships are what give our expeditions a scientific underpinning when it comes to a meaningful and purposeful trip.
Herping with a purpose
Our core philosophy is simple: every encounter should mean something.
Whether that purpose is capturing a breath-taking photograph, contributing to a biodiversity survey, gathering data for a conservation project, or learning field methods, we make sure your time in the wild has value. Participants who want to go further can receive support in designing and implementing their own small-scale research projects during our expeditions.
A place for every type of explorer
At FHN, you don’t need to be a scientist to join us, and you don’t need to be a photographer to feel inspired.
You simply need curiosity, respect for the wild, and a desire to experience herpetology in a way that matters, to you and to the animals. We aim to be inclusive to anyone, and our pre-expedition briefings and screening ensures a high-level of hospitality and accessibility.
Affordable pricing
The Field Herping Network strives to make wildlife experiences accessible without compromising safety or ethics. A portion of every expedition fee goes directly to the areas we visit, ensuring the regions we explore benefit from our presence. By partnering with local experts and businesses, we try to keep costs fair while supporting those who protect and know these landscapes best. With us, your adventure helps both you and the wildlife you come to see.
Who is behind Field Herping Network?
My name is Ed, and I have been involved in herpetological shenanigans for over 12 years. I have an academic background in Zoology with Herpetology, including a PhD studying environmental adaptation in lizards. I love being in the field and observing reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitat, and have consistently done this at various locations around the world for over a decade, either for research, conservation, or just for fun. My goal with FHN is to bring together like-minded individuals so that not only can we learn from each other, but also contribute something meaningful while being in the field.
I am always looking to expand my team to researchers and naturalists who align with my mission and can help develop the “Field Herping Network” both literally as a company, and metaphorically as a network of ethical science-focused field guides. If this might be you, then reach out!
