VOLUME X NUMBER 7

NEWSLE1TER OF THE

MI SOTA H P T LOGICAL

SOCI TY

DATE: Friday, August 3,1990 . TIME: 7:00 PM

PROGRAM: Barney Oldfield

JULY, 1990

AUGUST MEETING

PLACE: 335 Borlaug Hall St Paul Campus University of Minnesota

SPEAKER: The Wood Turtle in Minnesota - Natural History and Conservation

Barney Oldfield has been studying Wood Turtles (Clemmys inaculpta) for approxi:m.ately the last eight years. The main area he has looked at is the Cannon River near Red Wmg, Minnesota. He has done a nesting survey for the DNR Nongame Wndlife Progrrun and has consulted for the DNR Scientific and Natural Areas (SNA) Program in the development of the Cannon River Wood Turtle SNA. Barney has been breeding and releasing Wood Turtles, under permit from the DNR, for the last seven years.

This presentation will include a slide program featuring Barney's exrellent photography. No doubt, this will be an interesting and informative program.

CRI1TER OF THE MONTH: Turtles or herps "with a shell" .

Reminder: Be sure to bring a proper container to display your animal.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS The follo-wing programs are being planned. More information will be available in future newsletters.

Larry Yank The VaniBhing Rain Forests . Joe Collins Trials and Tribulations of Writing the 3rd edition of the ReId Guide to

Reptiles and Amphibians

BElL MUSEUM OF NATURAL mSTORY 10 CHURCH ST. S.E. MINNEAPOliS, MN 55455-0104

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

August 3 - 5 : Central Florida Herp Society National Reptile Breeders' Expo, Orlando August 5 -10 : Joint Annual Meetings of the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles and

the Herpetologists League, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana August 9 .. 12: Symposium on the ConselVa1i.on and Captive Husbandry of Turtles and Tortoises

Chapman College, Orange, CA October 12 - 14: Sixth Annual Midwest Herpetological Symposium, Minneapolis, MN

The purpose of the Minnesota Herpetological Society is: to further the education ,of dte membership and the general public in care and captive propagation of reptiles and amphi­bians; to educate the membership and the general public in the ecological role of reptiles and amplubians; and to promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

MRS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

John Moriarty PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT SECRETARY TREASURER NEWSLETTER EDI10R MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT .. LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE IMMEDIATE PAST PRES.

John Meltzer Dennis Daly Marilyn Brooks Jo Anne Wetheren-Morlarty FredBomum FredBozvay BruceDelles Venoo Jimerson AnnPorwoll

(612) 647-1334 (612) 263-7880 (612) 633-8370 (612) 533-7723 (612) 647-1334 (612) 476-0306 (612) 224-4167 (612) 420-2603 (612) 869-8547 (612) 489-7853

@ Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. The contents of this newsletter may be reproduced for inclusion in the newsletters of ~ther herpetological societies provided that the material is reproduced without change and proper credits are given to the MHS Newsletter citing volume number and date.

MHS Newsletter. Vol. X, No. 7 2

HELP A HAPLESS HERP

Many animals were up for adoption at the July meeting. A Spotted Tegu went to Sarah Strand, Asian Black Spiny Toads to Bruce Haig, Ann McKenzie, and Dan Newbauer, Fire-bellied Toads to Glen Jacobsen and Nina Katayama, a Surinam Toad to Dan Nedrelo, a Crested Newt to Jill Gidmark, a 7 ft. Burmese Python to Bill Ness, a 10ft. Burmese python to Bob Ayotte, White's Treefrogs to Jim Gerholdt and Bill Ness, a Spiny-tailed Iguana to Zachary Strand, a Russian Toad to John Moriarty, and a pair of Eastern Box Turtles to Dan Newbauer.

At the July meeting the following animals will be available for adoption: a large Green Iguana, a pair of Three-toed Box Turtles, 2 Red-eared Slider Turtles, a Burmese python, a boa, and a Gopher Snake. Anyone with animals to go up for adoption should contact Fred Bosman prior to the meeting.

ADOPTION COMMITTEE AND GUIDELINES POLICmS

The purpose of the MHS Adoption Committee is to provide adequate housing and care for an animal which would otherwise be given away, sold, or destroyed. It is not the intention of the committee to increase breeding collecti.ons or to favor any individual Animals are placed by the committee using their knowledge of the individual and the type of animal that is up for adoption. It is helpful for the individual to provide as much information as possible on the adoption application.

GUIDELINES FOR ADOPTION OF ANIMALS

1. To have and provide adequate food and housing for the animal. 2. To have experience with the species up for adoption or with a related species. 3. To have the same species of the opposite sex. 4. To have previously bred this species or a related species.

POLICIES ON ADOPTIONS

1. All animal adoptions are up to the discretion of the Adoption Committee. 2. Only current MHS members are eligible to adopt animals. 3. Adopted animals remain the property of MHS for a minimum of three years at which

time animals become the property of the adopter. 4. If a person caring for an animal does not renew their membership or drops out of MHS

the animal must be returned to MHS for re-adoption unless the person has had the animal for more than three years.

5. If a person caring for an animal for less than three years allows their membership to lapse for three months, a member of the Adoption Committee will contact them for the return of the animal. If the person wishes to keep the animal, they must renew their membership and re-apply for adoption of the animal with the rest of the membership.

6. If an animal dies while under the three-year care period, -the Adoption Committee must be notified. The committee may request the return of the animal or the perfonnance of a necropsy.

Questions concerning adoptions should be addressed to either John Moriarty or Fred Bosman.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 3

RAFFLE

The rame at the July meeting brought $34.50. The lucky winners and their prizes were Ben Gerholdt .. a box of LeMefs turtle candy, Jo Anne Wetherell- a sizzle rock, Vence Jimerson .. a book on snakes, Glen Jacobsen .. a World Wildlife Fund tote bag, Zachary Strand -large aquarium, and Bill Moss, Jim Gerholdt, Ann Marie Romitzky, Joe Matzke, Candy Ashbech, and Laura Peterson all won colorful herp postcards.

Thank you to all members who donated prizes and purchased tickets. Your support helps MHS to cover operating expenses. Do you have any unwanted herp-related items? MHS is always happy to receive donations for the raftle at the mon1h1y meeting. Proceeds from the raffle go offset MHS operating expenses.

REFRESHMENTS

Refreshments at the May meeting were provided by Sor:en Sorenson and Fred Bozvay. Thanks to both.

Mary Ann Waldon is the refreshment chairperson. If you would like to provide refreshments for a meeting be sure to notify Mary Ann in advance. Please see her at the meeting or give her a call at (612) 699-0475.

JULY PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

At the July meeting, a program entitled Wisronsin Herpetology was presented by Dan Nedrelo. Dan began by describing 1he geology of the various areas of Wisconsin and the types of herps found in each area. There are 59 species and subspecies of reptiles and amphibians known to be indigenous to Wisconsin. These include 8 salamanders, 13 frogs and toads, 12 turtles, 4 lizards, and 22 snakes. Briefly, each species or subspecies was mentioned with information on the status of each as wen as mention of the studies being carried out, if any are in progress. The program was illustrated by a large number of slides, many of which were photographed by

The critter of the month for July was Midwestern Herps. This was an easy one. It could have been animals native to the midwest or animals that simply reside in the midwest. Everyone should have brought a critter unless you don't own a herp.

Those people who cared to share their herps with us were Glen Jacobsen - Burmese Python, Jim Rea - Northern Prairie Skink, Greg K vanbek - Western Chorus Frog, Ann McKenzie and Laura Peterson - Ornate Box Turtle, John Meltzer - Western Hognose Snake, Plains Snake, Eastern Milksnake, Aaron Hampton - Painted Turtle, Dan Nedrelo - Pickerel Frog, Common Musk Turtle, and Blue Racers, and Jim and Ben Gerholdt - Tunber Rattlesnake and Massasauga.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 4

BOARD MEETING

The meeting was held on July 7 at the home of Gloria Anton. The meeting was called to order by John Moriarty at 7:08 PM. In attendance were Gloria Anton, Marilyn Brooks, Fred Bozvay, Dennis Daly, Bruce Delles, Greg Kvanbek, Vence and Nanette Jimerson, John Meltzer, John Moriarty, Ann Porwoll, Mary Ann Waldorf and Jo Anne Wetherell-Moriarty. Fred Bosman was absent.

The secretaries minutes were accepted wi1h a few corrections. There were 88 people at 1he JW1e general meeting. There were also 88 people at the July meeting.

'~«l

Treasurer's Report As of June 30 there was a Balance of $883.45 in checking, $1500. in CDs and $50. cash on hand. Marilyn Brooks will now t.ake over the duties of treasurer.

President's Report The supply of membership brochures is quite low. Revisions to the current brochure are needed. The decision was made to reprint the current brochure and begin making revisions for the next prin1ing.

The planning committee for the Midwest Herp Conference will meet on Thursday, July 12. One speaker has cancened. Because the agenda is quite full, he will not be replaced. The time will be used for the other speakers.

People have signed up to work and supply animals for 1he Minnesota State Fair but more are mn needed. MHS will be listed in the National Wl1dlife Federation Conservation Directory_

Vice Presidenfs Report Speakers are oonfumed for the August, September, and October meetings. John is working on Programs for later months for the Holiday Banquet Several ideas were provided to him.

Old Dullness Results of the member pon on MHS shirts were discussed. There was no one who wanted polo shirts and about 10 people each who wanted long sleeve t-shirts, short sleeve t-shirts and tank tops. Because it is 100 expensive to maintain an inventory of several types of shlrts, it was decided to order short sleeve t-shirts. Plans are drawn up for the new library box. The oost of materials will be $150. - $175. Scott Cords will proceed with the construction.

New Busineg There was nODe.

Round Table There was 8 discussion of 1he adoptions from the general meeting. Adoption Commitree members present summarized the procedure used. In several cases there was more than one equally qualitled candidate in which case the decision was made randomly_ Board members who were candidates for an animal were not allowed to participate in making a decision on that animal. The board felt that the decisions were made in a fair manner. GuideHnes and policies for adoption will be printed again in the newsletter.

An inventory of the library is still needed. The best time for this will be when the books are transferred to the new library box. Several books were donated to the library by Bruce Denes. These are described elsewhere in the newsletter.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:49 and refreshments were served.

MHS NewsJetrer, Vol. X, No. 7 5

HOW TO GET INVOLVED by John Moriarty MHS President

Over the last year I have noticed many new faces at our monthly meetings. I had also heard people comment on how hard it is to talk to certain people, and is a clique, or that they never get selected for adoption animals. These perceptions develop \vhen there are many members that are new or not involved in society activities. With up to 120 members in attendance at the monthly meeting, it is difficult to talk to the people you know, let alone those you don't know.

There are many ways to get involved with MHS activities and get to know other members.

1. Participate in the meetings by asking questions during herp hints, bring an animal for critter of the month, or bring refreslnnents.

2. Volunteer for Hands .. on at Como Zoo, newsletter folding, the State Fair display, or the lvfidwest Herp Conference. Taking part in activities outside the regular meeting gives members an additional chance to meet and talk.

3. Contribute to the newsletter. Send information to Greg Kvanbek for Herp Forum, or breeding notes to Aaron Hampton. Write a separate article or drawing and send it to the newsletter editor, Jo Anne Wetheren-Moriarty.

4. Think up something new. MHS is always looking for new ideas and projects, especially when someone volunteers to coordinate a project.

These are ways that you can become an active part of MHS instead of someone that just pays dues.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 6

PICNIC WITH THE HERPS

DATE: SWlday, August 19, 1990 TIME: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM PLACE: Plymouth Lions Park

Grills will be set up; bring your own barbeque foods. Bring a dessert or salad to share. MHS will supply corn on the cob and munchies. Activities will include volleyball and the ever popular turtle races. Playground equipment is available for the youngsters. Hiking and biking trails and a city beach are within a few blocks.

DIRECTIONS: Take Highway 55 west to Co. Rd. 6. Turn left on Juneau (2nd left after going over Hwy. 494). The park is at the intersection of Juneau and 14th. Or from Hwy. 494 tum south on Fernwood (1st road after 494). Turn weston Co. Rd 6 then same as above. See Map.

PICNIC HELP NEEDED

A . volunteer is needed to coordinate the picnic. We need a member to assist in buying items and setting up for the picnic. Please contact Jolm Moriarty at (612) 647-1334.

~ :r t G.ejlliU:5

-- ----- \ --_._.-.----- -. --~~

MRS Newsletter, Vol.}(, No.7 7

ARE THERE ANY ARTISTS OUT THERE?

MHS is having a contest for a ne\V MHS T-shirt design. The winner will receive a S I 00. cash award. The deadline for submission of concepts or designs is 3. Bring your concepts or designs to the meeting on that night or mailed in advance.

Rules: Only one-color designs will be considered. The design must incorporate a Minnesota theme (ie. a Minnesota herp). The board reserves the right to cancel the contest if no acceptable entries are submitted.

HANDS-ON AT COMO By Bill Moss

MHS was at Como Zoo twice in June for Hands .. on displays. First, regularly scheduled weekend program. Members attending were bringing with them a variety of Kingsnakes including Mexican Luis Petosi, as well Spotted Turtles, African Fat-tail Gecko, uu:meJ:ll Florida Pine Snake, and Green Iguanas. Tortoise. Greg K vanbek brought Great Plains Skinks, a Com ...... Jl<!.....". .... , II·i~C!11""""","

African Mouse-eating Frog. Marilyn Brooks brought a pair of _ ............ ......... who joined MHS on Saturday, came back on Sunday with his Com Snake. AJIfOJ""'llU.lI.JIJI.A.

with a Burmese Python and a "nice" 11 foot Reticulated Python. By way, ............. JI&IUL ...... "'.

hand doing?

On June 27 we were invited to the Como Zoobilee which is the annual Members present were Greg K vanbek and Marilyn Brooks, who Com Snake, Rainbow Boa, Common and Razorback Musk Turtles, sprained ankle. Bruce and Nancy Hrug came with their Brazilian Rainbow and a Ball Python. Drew Newman brought a Burmese Python and Bill Moss brought a couple of Dumeril's Boas and a Common Boa.

An of the above mentioned members deselVe a lot of 1hanks for donating their time to these types of MHS events. This is one of 1he best ways we have of getting public recognition (not to mention donations).

There will be no Hands-on in either July or August but we will be doing a Hands-on in September so check the newsletter or come to the meetings for details. Any questions or suggestions? Feel free to oontactme, Bill Moss, at (612) 488-1383.

NEW MHS TREASURER

At the July meeting, a special election for treasurer was held. There were no nominations from the floor, therefore our only pre-announced candidate for the job, Marilyn Brooks, was elected by a in a unanimous vote from the membership. Marilyn's outstanding credentials must have scared off everyone else! Thank you Marilyn for taking on this important job.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 8

RECYCLING MAKES SENSE

Yau may have noticed a change in the newsletter last month. Not only was the rolor sHght1y different but it was printed on recycled paper. MHS is proudly making a oontribution to decreasing demands on our natural resources. But, let's not stop here. There are other things members can do to be more environmentany sound Listed below are a few suggestions .

.. Re-use newspapers for cage bedding .

.. Save your paper milk cartons and bring them with you for use when you buy food animals •

.. Use vegetable trimmings as food for turtles, tortdses, and lizards (watch for mark down items at the grocery store,too).

- If you must buy pop in plastic boutes, 1hen cut off the bottoms, 1rim a hole in 1he side and use it far a hide box .

.. Plastic containers for things like whipped topping and margarine make good hide boxes and nest boxes .

.. Use old pillow cases for animal bags. These are usually bought cheaply at garage and estate sales.

- Arrange to car pool to meetings with a friend.

If anyone has additional suggestions please give them to the editor so they can be printed in a future newsletter.

VOLUNTEER FOR THE MIDWEST HBRP CONFERENCE

MHS is gearing up for the Fifth Annual Midwest Herpetological Conference to be held October 12-14. This conference started in Minnesota in 1985. There have been a nwnber d. meetings 10 pJm the program and spe&rers have been atTanged. Committees have been set up for all of the major adivities. Two to three members are needed to assist with each committee and everyone's help is needed to make this a successful event The committees and the chairperson of each are lined below. 'Those members who are willing to volunteer or want to know more about a commiUlee should contact the chairperson.

Committee Registration Hospitality Friday Night Icebreaker Auction Exhibits (non-animal) UveAnimals Tours

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7

Chahperson Marilyn Brooks AmPorwoll FredBozvay SoottCords Jolm Moriarty Greg Kvanbek Cliff Lindh« g.

Phone Nnmher 533 .. 7723 489 .. 7853 244 .. 4167 757-9759 647 .. 1334 533 .. 7723 573 .. 8834

9

BELPWANTED

The MHS newsletter has an opening for a reporter. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, writing a summary of the meeting programs to be published in the newsletter. Minimal book research is sometimes required. QuaHfications include somewhat regular attendance at the monthly meetings and the ability to meet a deadline. The pay is lousy and the boss is a slave driver but you will get to see your name in print. Only serious applicants need apply. For more information contactJo Anne at the meeting oreall (612) 647-1334 evenings.

PHANTASTIC PHENOLOGICAL PHINDS

You do not often enCOWlrer a threatened species within a mile of downtown 51. Paul but James Rea did just that

June 20, 1990, 3:00 PM, Lilydale Road (Co. Rd. 42) 0.2 Iniles east of the railroad tressel near Pickerel Lake, St. Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota. 1.0 (male) Blanding's Turtle (Emydoidea bJandingi) sitting in a puddle. Carapace length was 9 inches. He was released into the lake.

Please share your phinds with your fellow members by mailing them or giving them to the Newsletter Editor at the monthly meetings. Identify the herp as well as possible. Give common name and scientific name, if possible. Report the date and time of the sighting. Be as exact as possible about the location - county, township, etc. Give as much information as you can.

CRITTERS NEEDED FOR STATE FAIR EXHIBIT

Have you volunteered to provide an animals for the state fair exhibit? Why not? It's a chance to teach other people about Minnesota's amphibians and reptiles, and if you work you get a free ticket to the fair. The fair nms August 23 through September 3. The species listed below are needed.

Bullsnake Eastern Hognose Snake Western Hognose Snake Eastern Milk Snake Fox Snake Black Rat Snake Blue Racer Garter Snake

Blanding's Turtle Painted Turtle Snapping Turtle Map Turtle Softshell Turtle Wood Turtle TIger Salamander Bullfrog Leopard Frog

People are also needed to staff the exhibit Two people per day will check the animals, clean cages, change water, etc. Pair up with a friend. Each person working will be provided a ticket for entry to the fair. If you can care for animals or if you have an animal that you would be willing to lend for the duration, please contact Marilyn Brooks~ at (6]2) 533-7723.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, .No. 7 10

WISCONSIN'S DANGEROUS ANIMAL BILL by John Moriarty

In the State of WISconsin, legislation has been proposed that would effect the keeping of potentially dangerous animals. They have defined H dangerous" as physicall.y harmful to humans or domestic animals, potentially disease carrying, or ecologically damaging. The species of reptiles and amphibians listed below would be effected.

all crocodilians all venomous snakes including rear-fanged colubrids Gila Monsters and Beaded lizards Boa Constrictors Burmese Pythons and associated subspecies Reticulated Pythons African Rock Pythons Yenow Anacondas Marine Toads Clawed Frogs

To keep these species a pennit would be required. For further infonnation contact ;

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources P.O. Box 7921 Madison, VVI 53707

TUE FIRST YEAR OF MUS

March, 1981 marked the beginning of the Minnesota Herpetological Society. During the fll'St year, MHS grew by leaps and bounds in both the number of members but the scope of variety of activities as wen. The fonowing are some milestones of that flISt year:

May, 1981

June

July September

October

November December January, 1982 February Match

Apn1

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7

First MHS meeting Constitution is written First newsletter MHS Deli opens for food rodent sales 30 members 'Herp Hints' is started Classified Ads added to the newsletter Library established with donations of books by members 52 members Official MHS logo is chosen 'Critter of the Month' becomes a regular feature at meetings 61 members 67 members 72 members 76 members MRS Board increased to 4 members-at-large 80 members MRS sets guidelines for adoption and begins placing herps 82 members

11

HERPPORUM

Edited by Greg Kvanbek

To avoid confusion with the Herp Hints at the monthly meeting, the name of this column has been changed to HelP Forum. This is probably more appropriate considering that the topics included are not always herp hints.

'" Wen, fellow herpers, I didn't get very many answers to last month's questions. But I did get one from Dennis Daly in respcmse to the question N If baby turtles are illegal to sen, then why do so many people sen them?N

Baby turtles (by law these are def"med as turtles with a carapace of less than four inches) are an item that are cost effective from the seller's standpoint While baby snakes and lizards can be sold immediately after hatching, a turtle seller must raise baby turtles for one to five years to reach the four inch size for sale according to the law. That would force the turtle breeder who stays legal to incur considerable expense. A baby 1urtle may be sold only if it is to be used for educational or research purposes, alas, a loophole in the regulation of baby turtles. The question is, what cons1itutes an animal in those categories? Is it a traveling talk show or a classroom environment where the turtles are kept and sent home for the summer with children who mayor may not maintain interest in the animal for the entire summer? Is it the gathering of baby turtles for experimentation, either genetics (developing albinism) which in essences produce produce a weaker gene chain as the result of inbreeding? Is it for dissection to study morphology or even just behavioral study in a simulated environment? The next question is, if the animal is kept for . research is it mandatory that the information be published or can the study just be kept in case the Animal Control Warden checks on the status of the animal?

The next factor is that there is a demand for baby turtles. It is difficult to sen legal Bog Turtles (Clemmys muhlenbergi) as they only reach an aduh size of up to four inches. There is a romantic feeling about tlle keeping of baby turtles. When I was young I bought hatchling turtles for 25 cents and tllere are still many of us who associate the baby turtle with our chlldhood. Be this tight or wrong is inconsequential. The demand for us to allow our our children the same opportunity as we had ourselves is powerful. No one has approached me say that when they were a kid they got Salmonella from a baby turtle. Yes, tllere were cases reported and a federal regulation was initiated and after this was done the number of Salmonella cases declined. But the U.S. is still the largest exporter of baby turtles ( Red-eared Sliders - Pseudemys scripta e1egans) in the world. If we outlaw baby turtles for the private conector, why not for the commercial seller to private markets as wen? In today's information oriented society we have more knowledge available to pet keepers and an approachable scientific community. Many books feature photos of baby turtles. This instills the desire to possess these little gems.

Let's wake up and get off of our high horse of environmental dictatorship and either stop selling baby turtles grown domestically or legalize them for everyone. The charm that a baby turtle brings to us should not be missed if we can demons1rate that we have the knowledge and dedication to care for these fragile and beautiful animals.

This is my opinion and does not reflect the opinions of MHS members, the Board of directors, or anyone else.

uenmrs Co Turtle J(e.eDt.~r

(continued)

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 12

if! Dennis brings up many valid points such as:

- the research and education loophole

- the fact that there is a demand for baby turtles, whether legal or not legal

- the importance of baby turtles in the herp hobby

- the lack of profit from breeding turtles to sell legally

There are a few things that I would like to add. Frrst and foremost, the baby turtle law simultaneously discourages captive breeding and encourages the collecting of wild turtles. As environmentally responsible people, is this what we want? The people who do buy baby turtles, i.e. illegally, are generally responsible hobbyists. They are not ignorant parents buying toys for their kids. When Red-eared Slider Tartles were legally sold in dime stores they were bought as toys, only to die later. If baby turtles were legalized, who would buy them? In an ideal world they would be bought by serious hobbyists and not by uninfonned parents or small children. But how does one legislate something like that?

One more thlng. Many non-herp pet shops sen Green Anoles and California Newts in large numbers. They are not good herps for children because they are not easy for inexperienced herpers to keep. Yet I'm sure that most of these animals are purchased as toys for children. What is the difference between selling these animals or selling baby Red-eared Slider Turtles? If you think ifs SalmoneJJa, try sticking a California Newt in your mouth and see what you get. I'll bet it's worse than Salmonella.

I{II Perhaps you noticed that Herp Hints has become Hcrp Forum. I'd like to expand this column to include other items of interest from the herpetological community, including hints, questions, ideas, discussion of various herp issues, and herp news from around the world. But I'm not going to come up with all these neat contributions, you are! Call me if you have anything of interest, at (612) 533-7723. If you have a particular interest or issue this is the place to print it.

NEW LIBRARY BOOKS

Several new books have been added to the MHS library. Five books were donated by Bruce Delles. These include:

Turtles as a New Pet by AI David Terrariumsfor YourNewPet by Mervin F. Rober1s Snakes as a New Pet by Jake Oberon Junior Pet Care - Turtles by Zuza Vrbova Junior Pet Care - Snakes by Zuza Vrbova

Thanks to Bruce for this kind gesture.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. ~\", No.7 13

HERPS AT HOME Edited by Aaron Hampton

THE PLEASURE OF BREEDING PINES

This month I'll switch gears and talk about breeding some of my favorite snakes, the Pine, Bull, and Gopher Snakes. On a taxonomic level, all of these snakes are classified into a single species, Pituophis melanoleucus. The common names of Bull Snake, Sonoran Gopher Snake, Northern Pine Snake, for example, pertain to the animal's subspecies. I currently maintain and breed two of the subspecies: the Florida Pine Snake (P.m. mugitus) and the Black Pine Snake (P. m.lodingI). Both subspecies are kept and breed identically. The sexes are housed separately in 2' x 2' plywood cages with an incandescent bulb for heat Temperature near the bulb is around 85 degrees F and cools to 78 degrees F away from the bulb. A large water dish and a large, broken clay pot round out the cage furnishings. The animals are fed rat pups and on occasion, a frozen chick for variety.

In October, I stop feeding the snakes and allow the stomach and intestines to HcleanH out I make sure that water is available at all times. In November, I tum off the heat source for each cage. During the first part of December I place each individual in a large plac;tic box with a small dish for water. The boxes are placed on my basement floor and checked every week to be sure that water dishes are full. The animals are placed back in their cages in February and returned to nonnal feeding by the middle of the month. Breeding usually takes place about 30-35 days later, with eggs following 30-40 days after that.

When Pine Snakes breed there is a lot of thrashing about in the cage. The male tries to pin down the female with loops of his body, while sometimes grasping her neck with his mouth. All the while this is happening, the male is stimulating the female with waves of muscle twitches. Copulation may last minutes or hours. When the female begins developing eggs she gains a tremendous amount of weight At rust it will seem like she swallowed cement that hardened inside, but in later stages the hard mass will soften into distinguishable egg lumps. When I suspect that a female is gravid I place an appropriate nesting box in the cage. For these snakes I use a shallow sweater box wi1h the bottom painted dark. and a hole cut near one comer of the top. 'This is filled with damp moss. Egg laying is usually a day long process and the eggs are usually quite large~ I've never had an egg smaller than a large chicken egg. Quite frequently the eggs are in excess of four inches and will grow more as they incubate.

I remove the eggs once they are laid and incubate them artificially in a fine grade of venniculite. Damp paper towels also make fme incubating media. The average incubation period lasts around 60 days depending on temperdture. I keep my eggs at about 82 degrees F. The time of hatching is especially exciting because these babies aren't like King Snake, Rat Snake, or Milk Snake babies. These neonates, at 16-22 inches, are ready for business and they grow incredibly fast My male breeder Black Pine Snake is over four feet long and is only two and one-half years old. I know of some animals reaching this length in about a year. The babies seem a little testy at first, but usually tame quickly and make good pets and display animals.

If you are looking for a baby snake that will grow quickly, tames well, comes in a variety of colors, is very hardy and certainly not frail, try a personable Pine Snake.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No.7 14

SNAKEBITE MYTH AND FACT

For all of the millions of humans stomping around the fields, forests and swamps of this country, only about 7000 are treated annually for venomous snakebite: 9 to 14 of these people die. The highest bite rates occur in the sou1hem states, in this order: North Carolina, Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arizona, and New Mexico.Poisonous snakes, however, live in all states except Maine and Alaska.

More than half of all snakebite victims are children or people under 20. About one-third of the bites are the result of handling.

The snakes that do the most damage are fanged pit vipers (Crotalidae), 19 species of which live in the United States (including varieties of rattlesnakes and pygmy rattlers, and the copperhead and cottonmouth snakes). Coral snakes (Elapidae), which do not have fangs but cany an extremely dangerous brand of venom, account for only 20 to 25 bites per year, usually due to handling. The Elapidae occur only in certain southern and southwestern states.

The seriousness of a snakebite varies greatly with the situation. One scientist estimates that 20 perCent of file bites result in no envenomation whatever, either because fang penetration was superficial or because file snake did not inject venom. Venom potency also varies with the size and species of the snake: a copperhead, for instance, carries less - and less deadly - venom than does a typical eastern diamondback. Another factor is the size and health of the vic1im; a large, strong man is less wlnerable to toxic injection filan is a drlld or an aduh in weak health.

DO'S AND DONTI FOR BITES

* DO Nor panic. An increased pulse only accelerates the assimilation of venom. * 00 Nor drink alcohol. * DO NOT apply ice or cold compresses. Once touted as the premier snakebite treatment,

cryotherapy is now universally condemned by physicians since it often destroys more tissue than it saves.

* DO NOT apply a tourniquet This only increases tlte danger of serious injury. A tourniquet that is \Vrongly applied can eventually lead to amputation of the limb.

* DO NOT use the incision and suction method. The suction applied is usually inadequate to remove any poison. Also, the incisions usually do more harm than good, particularly when made by non .. medical personnel.

* DO immobilize the bitten area, witlt a splint if tlte bite is in an extremity. * DO evacuate the immediate area. If possible, have someone in your party kill the snake.

Positive identification will facilitate antivenom treatment Be wary oftlte head, however. Even when dead, a make can reflexively bite for up to an hour. For this reason, carry the dead snake in some sort of container.

* 00 get to a medical facility as soon as possible. If help is a long way off, a light constric1ing band of cloth may be applied above the woWld, loose enough so that a fmger can easily be inserted between the band and skin. 00 Nor overtighten.

Reprinted from Sports Afield, March, 1990, page 44. Thanks to Gloria Anton for providing this article.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 15

MHS NBW MBMBBRS AND CHANGBS

Please add this infonnation to your MHS White Pages.

(change) Richard S. Funk, D.V.M. Amazon Exotic Animal Services P.O. Box 2736 Brandon, FL 33509-2736 (813) 647-1732

NBWSLETIER GOOF

The article entitled Snapping Turtle Bires Off more Than It can Chew which appeared in the June newsletter was written by John Moriarty of Hennepin Parks President of MHS. Sorry, John.

~ II

I HERP ASSISTANCE II

II II II Do you ever have a question about one of your herps and wonder who might be able to provide an II answer? Most people who keep pets of any kind have been in this situation at one time or another. II A group of MRS members has volunteered to provide assistance. Listed below are the people and II their specialties. Please be reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.1 'I I I II Large pythons constrictors II

II Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268 DelJones 938-8555 \I I JackWalsh, Jr. (715) 822-8726 John Meltzer 263-7880 II

II II I Lizards Amphibians III I Nancy Haig 789-4637 John Meltzer 263-7880 I I Barney Oldfield 1-923-4856 Greg Kvanbek 533-7723 II

II

Terrestrial turtles and tor.':ol .. ~ John Moriarty 647-1334 Ann POlWoll 489-7853

Jlhmesota Herps

Aquatic rll"lil7l1l"'ftllp./fl

Barney Oldfield 1·923-4856 Dennis Daly 633-8370

Greg Kvanbek 533-7723 John MoriartY 647-1334

I

I, ~==========================================================~

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No.7 16

SIXTH ANNUAL MIDWEST HERPETOLOGICAL CONFERENCE

HOS'lIDBY MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

12, 13, 14 OCTOBER 1990

IN ASSOCIATION WI1H BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL mSTOR.Y It MINNESOTA NONGAME PR.OGRAM

AT

J .. F. Bell Museum of Natural History

The Sixth Midwest Conference is being held in Minnesota for the second time, where it was started in 1985. The conference is also the start of the Tenth Atmiversary celebration of MHS. The pJmming committee has worked with the University's Bell Museum and the Nongame Wndlife Program to develop an exciting program. The program includes talks and displays on the conservauon, propagation, and natural history of amphibians and rep1iles that are of interest to persons in the Midwest.

SPEAKERS

Breeding and husbandry of Pituophis

CmTent Status of Some rare herps in Wisconsin

Bart Brono

Gary Cuper

John Coakley

Joe Collins

Haskell

Breeding, husbandry and conservation of leopard and star tortoises

Tr1a1s and 1ribula1ions of writing the 3rd ed. of the Peterson field guide

Over-wintering alligators at st. Louis Zoo

Head starting wood turtles

Venomous reptile bites in the midwest

History of Herpetology in Minnesota

Natural History of Tunber Rattlesnakes

Com Snakes: Goldfish of the snake world

rate has been arranged at : .Ka~m!lon hfl'lll1ll'lIA~d:l!1I11h1J1' Hotel 615 Washington

Blocks from the Bell Museum) MlllmealOOilS. MN 55414

Conference Single Double Triple Quad

$50.00 58.00 (29/person)

. 68.00 (23/person) 78.00 (19/person)

sure to mention the Midwest Herp Conference.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 17

Schedule Friday, October 12 2:00 to 6:00 Registration, exhibits, and live animals 6:00 to 7:00 Dinner (on your own) 7:00 to 9:00 Welcome, speaker, MHS slide show. 9:00 to 12:00 Ice breaker social and Museum visit. Saturday, October 13 8:00 to 9:00 Registration and Coffee 9:00 to 11:45 Speakers 11:45 to 1:30 Lunch (on your own), exhibits 1:30 to 4:30 Speakers 5:30 to 7:00 "Happy Hour" 7:00 to 8:00 Banquet 8:00 to 111 Auction.

Sunday, October 14 10:00 to 12:00 Exhibits, live animals. 12:00 to 111 Tour of Museum, Minn. Zoo, and Private Collections

Exhibitors and Animal Sales MHS has arranged for a space for commercial exhibitors-and live animal sales at 1he Ben Museum. NO arrangements have 'been made with the hotel for animals and no animals are allowed in the hotel. Persons interested in space should note it ontheir registration and send in their request before 15 September. The committee chair will contact interested parties. All participants in these two events will be asked to make a donation to the auction.

Auction An auction will be held after the Saturday night banquet Joe Collins, auctioneer extrodinaire will be conducting. Herp related items are needed to help in this effort.

MIDWEST HERPETOLOGICAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

NAME~ ________________ __ CONFERENCE X 30.00* =

ADD~ ________________ __ BANQUET X20.00 = a-m.DRBN UNDER 10 ARE HAlF PRICE FOR

OONFERENCE AND BANQUET

PHONE, __________________ __ TOTAL =

HERP SOCIETY ______ _ ·AFTER SEP1EMBFR 15 ADD $10.00 lAm FEB

_Commercial Exhibitor _Live Animals

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7

MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY BELL MUSEUM OF NATIJRAL I-llSTORY '10 CHURrnST. SE MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455

18

1.0.0 = male; 0.1.0 = female; 0.0.1 = unknown

MHS DELI: Order frozen rats and rat pups no later than 7:00 PM the Monday before the meeting (or Saturday if Monday is a holiday). can Bruce at (612) 593-0298 to place an order. Limit: 3 dozen pups or 6 adult rats.

Fresh frozen rats - $2.00 each Fresh frozen rat pups - $6.00 per dozen

FOR SALE: Used fmished plywood cage. 18 x 20 x 48 in., good size for boas. $60. Can bring to August meeting. can John Moriarty at (612) 647-1334.

FOR SALE: Baby Common Boas, c.b. 6-16-90, $150. each. Frozen adult mice $6./doz.; adult rats, $2. each. Contact Vence Jimerson at (612) 869-8547.

FOR SALF/TRADE: Hatchling Desert King Snakes out NOW! Southern Pine Snakes, Black Pine Snakes, more expected next month. 0.0.1 Baby Nile Monitor; 1.1 Eastern Collared Lizards; Columbian Boas expected soon! Aaron Hampton, 1135 S. Fork Dr., River Falls, WI 54022 (715) 425-7565 or (612) 739-0671.

FOR SALE: New animals arriving weekly! Stop in and see our latest selection of snakes, lizards, turtles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Twin Cities Reptiles, 540 Winetka Ave. N., Golden Valley, MN 55427 (612) 593-0298. Open Monday - Friday 12:00 - 7:00, Saturday 12:00 -5:00, Closed Sunday.

W ANTED: Anyone with infonnation about breeding Helmeted Turtles (Pclomoousa subrufra ssp.) please contact Kris Anton at (612) 420-2603 or write 8327 Shadyview Lane N.,Maple Grove, MN 55369.

W AN1ED: MHS Members who have adopted animals .. please return the bags to the next meeting.

INSTRUCTIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members. Paid ads from non-members are not accepted. Ads for venomous species, illegal species, or sick animals will not be run. MHS takes no responsibility for legality or heal1h of any animal advertised here. Ads may be run for three consecutive months at which time ads may be re-submitted. The editor reserves the right to omit ads when space is limited so as to allow all members a chance to advertise. Size of ads is limited to 4 typed lines or 1 standard size business card. Deadline for an newsletter items is the 15th of the month. Send all newsletter items to: ATIN: Newsletter Editor, Minnesota Herpetological Society, Ben Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St S.B., Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104.

MHS Newsletter, Vol. X, No. 7 19

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

BHLL MUSBUM OF' NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STRBBT S.B •• MINNBAPOLIS. MN 55455-0104

MEMBERSHIP AND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

RECYCLED PAPER COOSeMng OUr Resources

NAMB(S) ________________________________________________________ __

ADDRBSS

CITY ____________________________ __ STATB __ _ ZIP CODS ___ -. __

PHONB ___________ _ LIST IN MRS DIRBCTORY? YBS__ NO __

HBRP-RBLATBD INTBRBSTS ________ ~_===_= ______________________________ _

TYPB OF MBMBBRSHIP? NBW__ RBNBWBL __

__ SUSTAINING ... ~ ••••• $50.00 __ FAMILY •••.•••• $12.50

__ CONTRIBUTING ••••• $25.00 __ INDIVlDUAL •••• $lO.OO

OPPICIAL MRS T-SHIRT - $7.00 includes postqe (indicate how m.'UIY of cach)

Adalt: • ...n I-lup __ Kick: 1.0-12 __

Please enclose payment. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society. Membership is for 12 months from date of joining. A membership card will be sent by return mail. A receipt will be sent only on request. MAIL TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St. S.B .• Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104