feild herping safety..any suggestions for the unexperienced

i think they've all been mentioned, but:

two things i don't leave without are sunscreen and a snake hook...

also, be careful of going out alone... it's best to have someone else with you in case of mountain lions, venomous bites, falling and hurting yourself, and even the possibility of abduction... ya just never know.

Be prepared for anything.

I almost always go out herping by myself, so I definately have to be prepared for anything especially if I go 'hard' herping (i.e. wondering off-trail).

I usually bring a small backpack when I go herping. The pack includes a compass & map or GPS (I bring both), tongs and/or hook (I bring both), identification guide, a field notebook, my camera, bugspray and a few drinks.

I also where snake boots or chaps depending on where I am going and know how to get to the nearest hospital if the worse were to happen. Also ALWAYS tell some where you are going and when you expect to return if you are going out by yourself. If for some reason you are injured to the point of not being able to make it to your vehicle, it is good to know that someone will come looking for you.