Mudpuppy/Le necture tachetéThere are 33 species of amphibian and reptile in the Ottawa River and its watershed. The health of these populations depends intimately on the health of the river itself. Some amphibians and reptiles depend exclusively on the river and associated bodies of water for their habitat, while others use the river during only a short cycle of their life.

This is the case for many salamanders and frogs that lay their eggs in ponds and swamps. Young salamanders and frogs inhabit ponds and swamps during their juvenile life cycle. The Mudpuppy is strictly aquatic and therefore found in the river year-round. The Spring Peeper, Bullfrog, and Green Frog are abundant and common in almost all areas of the river. Considered a vulnerable species in Quebec, the Western (Striped) Chorus Frog has been reported in the vicinity of Allumette Island.

Numerous turtles can also be observed in the slow-moving waters and wetlands bordering the Ottawa River. The most common and noticeable are the Common Snapping Turtle and the Midland Painted Turtle. These species are mostly found in the southern reaches of the river, although they live in other parts as well. The Red-Eared Slider turtle is a common aquarium species that has been introduced in many areas in Canada. Unfortunately, it competes with the Midland Painted Turtle for habitat and food. Rare, and only in the Lower Ottawa River, are the Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (at risk in Canada, Quebec, and Ontario), the Common Map Turtle (at risk in Ontario) and the Wood Turtle, also at risk.

At least seven species of snake have been reported in the Ottawa River area. Water snakes are often sighted in the river. The Eastern Milksnake and the Eastern Ribbon Snake are both considered species of special concern.

Source: The Ottawa River Background Study by the Ottawa River Heritage Designation Committee.