MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

NEWSLETTER Vol. 17 No.7 JULY 1997

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

July 1997

The purpose of the Minnesota Herpetological Society is to : • further the education of the membership and the general public in care and captive propagation of

reptiles and amphibians; • educate the members and the general public in the ecological role of reptiles and amphibians; • promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

MHS Board of Directors President George Richard (612) 639-6368 Vice president Barbara Radanke (612) 291-1132 Recording Secretary Bruce Haig (612) 434-8684 Membership Secretary Mark Schmidtke (612) 481-0127 Treasurer Marilyn Blasus (612) 925-4237 Newsletter Editor Nancy Haig (612) 434-8684 Immediate Past President Gloria Anton (612) 420-6158 Member at Large Scott Larson (612) 434-6453 Member at Large James Rea (612) 457-8107 Member at Large Sarah Richard (612) 639-6326 Member at Large Roger Statz (612) 424-8816

Herp Assistance Specific questions concerning amphibians and reptile are best answered by contacting the following individuals.

Please be reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.

Large Boas and Pythons Glen Jacobsen (612) 757-8268J

Terrestrial Turtles Glen Jacobsen John Levell

Lizards Nancy Haig Bill Moss

Amphibians Greg K vanbeck John Meltzer

Special Committees: Adoption Chair

Sarah Richard

(612) 757-8268 (507) 467-3076

(612) 434-8684 (612) 488-1383

(612) 533-7723 (612) 263-7880

(612) 639-6326

Snakebite Emergency Hennepin Co. Regional Poison Center (612) 347 - 3141 Minnesota Poison Control System Local: (612) 221-2113 Out of State: (800) 222 -1222

Other snakes Jeff LeClere John Meltzer

Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash John Levell

Crocodilians Jeff Lang

(612) 488-6388 (612) 263-7880

(612) 753-0218 (507) 467-3076

(701) 772-0227

Amphibians and reptiles in Minnesota Greg Kvanbeck (612) 533-7723 John Moriarty (612) 647-1334

Education Chair Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845

MHS Voice Mail (612) 624 -7065 E-mail: mnherpsoc@aol.com Internet: http://www.onrampinc.net/mhs/

The Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter is published monthly by the Minnesota Herpetological Society. Publication deadline is the weekend of the general meeting. Submissions should be sent to : MHS Editorl do The Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church st. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104 Printed on recycled paper.

© Copyright Minnesota HerpetolOgical Society 1997. Contents may be reproduced for non-profit use provided that all material is reproduced without change and proper credit is given authors and the MHS Newsletter citingi volume, numberl and date.

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

News, Notes & Announcements I Upcoming Meeting

August Program: Geckos Guest Speaker: Aaron Hampton

Location: 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus Date and Time: August.:L, 1997 7:00 p.m.

Give us your tired ..... and retired

Huzzah!

'Tis the time of the Renaissance Festival season once again. However this year finds us in need of a few items, since Como Zoo will not be joining us. We are in dire need of herpetologically related artifacts. Let us dust off any items you would like to see reborn as an interesting, educational item. Tortoise and turtle shells, any teeth or bones and the like are more than welcome. Hopefully Bob Duerr won't mind if a shed skin or two could be donated our way.

On a similar note, any fabrics, sewing notions (no zippers, please), leather boots, china flats, jewelry, etc. that you think might fit with the 1490's look, will come to life again instead of taking up room in that closet you've been meaning to clean out. Your donation of these items will keep someone warm, or looking cool ( maybe even you volunteering for hands-on).

Please direct all inquires and donations to Franke Forstner (233-3964) or Dennis Daly (918-5064)

Grammercy Renaissance)

(that's

and we'll see you there!

"thank you" in

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Jacques-Yves Cousteau June 11, 1910 - June 23, 1997

Captain Jacques Cousteau, sailor and explorer died at his home in Paris, France at the age of 87. He is credited with being "an enchanter," a legend who "represented the defense of nature, modem adventure and invention of the possible."

Cousteau began deep sea diving in 1920, using heavy helmets and air lines. In 1943, while working with the French Resistance he co-invented with Emile Gagnan the first regulated compressed air-breathing device. This Se1£- Contained- Underwater- Breathing­Apparatus (SCUBA) would give millions of average people the ability to become a 'man-fish'.

In 1950, Cousteau acquired the Calypso, a retired minesweeper that was being used as a freighter between Malta and the island of Gozo. Within a year she was transformed into an oceanographic vessel capable of carrying a crew of 27, camera equipment, diving gear, and a special laboratory. The nose was outfitted with an observation chamber with eight portholes.

From the Calypso, Cousteau would begin a life time of exploring the sea. Eager to share the wonders of his discoveries, he invented a movie camera that would work underwater. During this time he produced three full-length theatrical films, The Silent World, World without SUIl, and Voyage to the Edge of the World.

Captain Cousteau was probably best known from his more than fifty books and seventy-five films based on the expeditions of the Calypso. The ship's adventures, documented in television films, brought the world's attention to the devastation that pollution, overfishing and coastal development has had to the vast oceans. The Cousteau Society was founded in 1973 and dedicated to the protection and improvement of the quality of life for the present and future generations. It has spearheaded efforts to protect Alaska, The Antarctic, and the Amazon. In 1996 Calypso was sunk by an accident in Singapore, she is now in dry-dock, soon to become a museum. Calypso II is under construction as "the most ecological ship in the world" and to continue being the environmental watchdog for the world.

To learn more about Jacques -Yves Cousteau consult your library or contact:

The Cousteau Society / L'Equipe Cousteau 70 Greenbrier Circle, Suite 402, Chesapeake, VA 23320

http://acin.edUr/cousteau/csteqius.htm NLH

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Presidential Pabulum

By George Richard - MHS President

Quite a lot has happened since last month particularly regarding the Iguana problem and I'd like to pass on a few thoughts about that. First though, Gloria Anton, our immediate past President, has resigned from the board citing time constraints and a heavy schedule. I wish Gloria the best of success and hope to see her at a meeting real soon. Fred Bozman has been asked by the board, and accepted the responsibility of completing the term as a 5th member at large.

Those who attended the general meeting are probably aware, we decided to try and return several iguana's to Petco, (their $9.99 sale on Iguanas and Grand Opening Sale accelerated our efforts beyond the letter writing campaign discussed last month). The complete story of what happened then and since as well as the general reasons why are covered in the press release printed elsewhere in this newsletter.

What I would like to take a moment to touch on is security. Part of the reason we decided to return iguana's to that particular store at that time was that we had information that "Peteo's President" would be present that day. For some, as yet to be known reason, he was not there, (many prefer to think he altered his plans because of us) and instead we met with the Director of Communications from San Diego. It has been suggested that Petco had prior knowledge of our plans, were aware we were coming and that a "spy" tipped them off! In truth, it doesn't matter.

Our general meetings are open to the public, our board meetings open to the general membership, and even more than that we try and get people to come take notes, and distribute them! It makes no difference if the President, Director, Store Manager, or Stock Handler knows when, where, or how we are coming. It is only important they know why. The problem with the sale of Iguana's will only start to end when people realize it is morally wrong to sell them as a disposable pet in an area of the country where a healthy, mature Iguana requires an immense investment of time, money, patience and devotion.

GWR

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July's "Critter of the Month" Nate Helgesen

Beau Larson

Lizard Sallris lInknolVnbyi

Red Belly Snake

Laura Peterson & crew

Storeria occipitomaclIlata Amelanistic Com Snake

Python molurus bivittaills Ball Python

Python Regis Leopard Tortoise

Alyssa Boelter Geochelone Pardalis

Ball Python Python Regis

Thanks to Raffle Donors TCR

Marla Larson Randy Blasus

Thanks for the Refreshments Rea Family Chewy Granola Bars

Help A Hapless Herp Finding homes this month were:.

1 Leopard Gecko 3 Box Turtles 2 Eastern Box Turtles 2 Ball Pythons 2 Common Boas 1 Albino Burmese Python 1 Burmese Python 1 Reticulated Python 2 California Kingsnakes 1 Black Ratsnake

a total of 16 animals found good homes Still needing a home: 10 Iguanas

see Petco story Thanks everyone who applied for animals.

CHANGES Glen (Jake) Jacobsen has stepped down fr~m

being Chairperson of the Adoption Committee due to changes in jobs and location. Next time you see Jake, thank him for all his efforts in a very demanding position and wish him good luck on the new job!

The new Chairperson for the Adoption Committee will be Sarah Richard. She has been on the Adoption Committee for many years and is a current Member-at-Large of the Board of Directors. She is well known for her expertise on Iguana adoptions and care.

NLH

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

A GREAT TIME IN ST. LOUIS I by RICK MILAS

It was my seventh one --Midwest Herpetological Symposium that is. The Midwest Symposiums began back in 1985 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I attended my first in 1990, also in Minneapolis. I was president of the Wisconsin Herpetological Society in those days, and I had such a great time that I immediately got together with our other officers present, and we decided to host the 1992 Symposium in Milwaukee. Serving as both president and program director of the host society proved to be a great experience and we all had a fantastic time in 1992.

As the time grew closer for this year's Symposium, held October 18-20 in St. Louis, I grew more and more excited with the anticipation of another great time. Steve Coogan and I attended together, and this being his first Symposium gave the added excitement of introducing him to many of the Hold timerstl.

The Symposium began with a captive bred only swap meet on Friday night. Upon entering the room we had our first brush with greatness. Looking up from examining Ring Pythons at the first table, we met Dave and Tracy Barker Who just so happened to be the breeders of these and other fine pythons. Not too much later we met Dr. Bernard Bechtel and Dr. Sherman Minton who were looking over the snakes on another table and discussing color morphs. The night ended after spending time with old friends and making new in the hospitality room.

Saturday was dedicated to the presentations which ranged from "Abnormal Snakes" by Dr. Bechtel, to "the natural history and husbandry of Ambystomalid Salamanders" by John McGrath, to "A New Guinea Adventure in Search of the Boelens Python" by Al Baldogo, to name just some. Saturday night brought the banquet with Dave Barker as the speaker to discuss the pythons of Indonesia, followed by the auction complete with Dave Barker as the auctioneer, and lots of good items to bid on (sure wish I had more money).

Sunday brought a behind the scenes tour of the st. Louis Zoo Herpetarium with the opportunity to come face to face with tuataras and stand next to some great tortoises. Steve and I ended the day by doing some field work in two cedar glades south of St. Louis (this deserves a newsletter article in itself).

One of the "regulars" at the Midwest Symposiums commented that she had attended many kinds of amphibian and reptile conferences over the years, and although some excelled in one thing over another, none are as good overall as the Midwests, especially when it comes to the camaraderie. I certainly would agree that the Midwest is a fine experience. Next year's will be in Minneapolis once more. It's a long way from Champaign, but Steve and I can hardly wait!

Reprinted witll penllissioH from Rick Milas, member of the Wisconsin Herpetological Society. Contributed by Roger Statz

The 13th Annual Midwest Herpetological Symposium

October 17 through October 19 ,1997 Hosted by the Minnesota Herpetological Society

General Information:

General Registration:

Liz Bosman Bill Moss

(612) 476-0306 (612) 488-1383

Marilyn Blasus (612) 925-4237

Vendor Registration: Eric Thiss

Voice Mail: (612) 624-7065 Email: mnherpsoc@aol.com

(507) 467-8733

Internet: http://www.onrampinc.net/mhs/

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MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Turtles of Minnesota Western Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta belli

by Jeff LeClere

Description The Painted Turtle is probably Minnesota's best

known turtle species, with the possible exception of the Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpentina. Adults range from 31/2 - 7 inches in carapace length (Conant and Collins, 1991). Males are at the smaller end of this range whereas females grow to the larger size.

The carapace is dark with a network of thin, faded yellow stripes. Each marginal is marked with two dark rectangles outlined in orange-red. This pattern wraps under the marginals, but the predominating surrounding color is red. The plastron is largely red or orange-red on the sides with bold pattern of black and pale yellow. Some individuals may possess a patternless rust-colored plastron. This is caused by chemical absorption from the water ( Vogt, 1981). The discoloration can be removed artificially by scraping, and naturally with the shedding of the plastronal scutes.

The ground color of the skin is black with bright yellow stripes on the head, limbs, and tail, sometimes with red centers. The yellow stripes on the head are wide and reach the eyes and the snout. The upper jaw has a notch located just under the nostrils. Males have very long front claws and longer, thicker tails with a cloacal opening that extends past the edge of the carapace. Females have shorter front claws, shorter, thinner tails and their cloacal openings do not extend past the edge of the carapace. The young are similar to adults, but brighter and are 7/8 -1 1/8 inches at hatching (Conant and Collins 1991). Subspecies

Of the four recognized subspecies, only one, the Western Painted Turtle, Chnjsemys picta bellii, occurs in Minnesota. Range

The Western Painted Turtle has the largest range of the four subspecies of Chrysemys picta. It occurs statewide and simply has not been reported yet in the few counties lacking records. Habitat

The indubitable recognition of this species is owed largely to its versatility in habitat usage. Nearly any permanent body of water with suitable basking sites are inhabited by these colorful turtles. They prefer muddy bottoms and may be seen in rivers, lakes, ponds and marshes.

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Habits The Painted Turtle can most readily be seen

enjoying its favorite pastime: basking. It is one of Minnesota's first reptiles out of hibernation. Individuals can sometimes be seen basking on warm April days. Retiring into hibernation in late October, they are one of the last Minnesota reptiles to enter their winter sleep. Adults overwinter at the bottom of the lake or pond in the mud. During their active period, they spend time basking interspersed with foraging for food. Often there will be one or more 'prime' basking sites where many turtles will sit upon one another, sometimes up to three in a stack. Painted Turtles recede to the bottom of the wetland to spend the night.

Breeding occurs in the late part of May. The male swims behind a female as she moves to shallow water. Then he swims past the female and positions himself directly in front of her facing her head-on. Stretching out his forelimbs, he vibrates his long claws along the female's cheeks. Many times she may respond by backing away and swimming onward and thus the male follows and repeats the courtship behavior. When she is ready to breed, she may stroke his forelimbs with her claws. The male mounts the female from behind using his claws to secure his position. Then he moves his tail under hers to breed. The females are ready to lay their eggs in June. At this time, many females can be observed seeking out their nesting sites which may vary considerably in distance from their aquatic home. Often, females must cross roads to reach their destination and unfortunately are hit by motorists. Females mainly choose areas of loose sand or soil that gets plenty of sunshine. She begins by digging a flask shaped nest. She deposits about 7 or 8 eggs, fill the enclosure in, and makes her way back to her home.

Sex determination is dependent upon temperature with mostly females resulting at temperatures of 84 degrees and up and mostly males below that temperatures. Predation upon turtle nests are extremely high, mostly by mammals which are able to dig up the leathery shelled eggs. The young turtles hatch in late August, but the young may overwinter inside the nests and emerge the following spring. They will be ready to reproduce at about four to six years of age. (Oldfield and Moriarty, 1994).

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Turtles 0 Mimlesofa Western Painted Turtle Ch

Painted Turtles are often erroneously referred to as 'mud turtles' by many Minnesotans. True Mud Turtles are of the genus Kinosternon and do not occur in Minnesota, but are found in much of southern United States. Food

Western Painted Turtles are omnivorous, but because they have a fixed tongue, they cannot swallow on land. Obviously, their food must be obtained and eaten in the water. They spend time chaSing fishes, aquatic insects, tadpoles, frogs, crayfish, snails, etc. They also consume carrion and will browse on different forms of aquatic vegetation. The herbivorous portion of their diet is acquired with age, however; the young are mostly carnivorous. Care

Western Painted Turtles may be kept, but it is necessary to obtain a fishing license before you catch one. Painted Turtles are harvested commercially in Minnesota, so it may be best to find a captive whose origin is not surely known so as to make its release to its native wetland impossible, or perhaps an injured specimen found on the road. Contact a veterinarian or refer to a publication if you find an injured hlftle on the road. Even bad shell fractures may be repairable. Keep the wound clean and apply Betadine and a triple antibiotic ointment.

A ten or twenty gallon long aquarium per adult is a sufficient enclosure. A water depth of the length of the turtle's shell is recommended by de Vosjoli (1992), but it can be much deeper so long as the turtle has access to a shallow gradient so that it can remain submerged, but does not have to swim to acquire air. The use of gravel with an undergravel filter as a substrate is a good choice; however, uneaten food and waste will collect and the tank must be Siphoned and the gravel cleaned. You may plant some plants in the gravel, but the turtles will probably uproot and/ or eat them and create a mess. Canister filters, both submersible and outside of tank are good, too. These may be used in turtle aquaria with bare floor, perhaps tl,e best choice of all. It is much easier to clean and is easier to detect instances when unscheduled cleaning may be necessary. Gradients in water depth can be achieved by siliconing plastic pegs to one end of the aquarium. A sheet of Plexiglas rests on top of the pegs. Rocks may be placed on this shelf so the turtle can bask, which is ABSOLUTELY necessary. The turtle must be able to get out of the water and completely dry off; othenvise it will develop many problems. The most common of which is shell rot. The b·eatment of shell rot will be discussed later. A basking lamp should be placed above the rock and, if possible, a Vita-lite should be installed as well. The temperature in the basking area should be between 85 - 90 degrees F. The lights can be turned off at night and may drop to room temperature.

Feeding your turtle should not be a problem. Unlike the snakes, a wide variety of foods should be offered, and they will eat commercially prepared foods. There are many commercial diets available. Most meet the turtle's nutritional requirements, but do not feed this exclusively. Live feeder fish, earthworms, and meats make good supplements as do leaves of romaine or kale, and several kinds of chopped vegetables. Many kinds of vegetables may be rejected, but there are usually a couple of kinds that individuals find mare appealing than others. Frozen fish (whole or filleted) should not be fed unless they are heated to 80 degrees F. and allowed to cool. Calcium supplements are a good idea and needed for young turtles especially. Calcium blocks added to the water are useful as is adding supplements to the food. Adults turtles are best fed a few times a week, and youngsters should be offered food every day ( note: young turtles will probably not consume plant material until they are older, so try periodically.).

Breeding is said to take place (de Vosjoli, 1992) when adults are treated like Colubrid snakes. I have not breed this species in captivity, and my information on this subject is mainly taken from de Vosjoli, 1992. Cool them into the 50' s, undenvater, for a few months. Place the pair together and in a month make sure the female has loose soil for nesting. The young will hatch in about 60 days.

Some turtles will attempt to hibernate even if the temperature appears optimal. Check the temperature because, as with any reptile, if it is too cold to eat but too warm to hibernate, it will develop problems and may die. Hibernate the turtle if it does not eat.

Other aliments your turtle may contact can not be discussed in the context of this article. Painted Turtles are normally active animais, if your turtle appears sluggish and sick contact a veterinarian.

Like any animal, it is very important to wash your hands after handling them, and do not wipe your eyes or face without doing so.

Painted Turtles are active, entertaining captives with observable personalities. Many will learn to beg for food and will follow your movements in anticipation of being fed. Id, however, it becomes necessary to give up your pet, do not make the mistake many people do and simply release it in any pond or lake. Take it back to where it came from. If this is impossible, contact your local Herpetological Society's adoption program.

de Vosjoli, Philippe. 1992. The General Care and Maintenance of Red-eared Sliders. Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside, CA.

Oldfield, B. L. and J.r. Moriarty. 1994. Amphibians arid Reptiles Native to Mittnesola. University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis.

Vogt, Richard Carl 1981. Natural History of tlte Amphibians and

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MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

The PETCO Parley

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SE • MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0 I 04

(6 I 2) 624-7065 ....................................................................................................................................... Iguanas Go Home

For Immediate Release Saturday, July 12, 1997

Contact: George W Richard Minnesota Herpetological Society 223-0407 VP (today only)

Minneapolis--( On Saturday July 12, 1997 at approximately 1 pm members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society will attempt to return unwanted and abandoned Iguanas to the President of Petco at the Petco store at 694 & Central Ave N. Peteo is celebrating their grand opening and the acquisition of several Pet Food Warehouse stores by selling Iguana's for $9.99. We are taking this action with the hope of accomplishing two goals. 1) Convince Petco and the other major pet retailers to discontinue Iguana sales in Minnesota and hopefully the Northern U.S .. Over 750,000 Iguana's were imported into the U.S. last year. The majority of them were abandoned or died due to a host of conditions related both to their low cost and their inability to survive in this climate. Petco has made a great effort to help alleviate the pet overpopUlation problem among cats and dogs through their adoption programs with local shelters. They also discontinued rabbit sales in California due to adverse conditions for the animals. Pet Food Warehouse, the company Petco is "replacing", had adopted a no Iguana Sale policy. We want Petco to reinstate this policy. By their positive actions Peteo has taken on the mantle of a "Good Corporate Citizen" we hope their actions regarding the sales and distribution of reptiles will uphold that image. 2) Educate the public as to the suitability of Iguana's and other reptiles and amphibians as pets. We want to promote responsible pet ownership, care and husbandry and avoid the needless suffering and death caused by ignorance. With large numbers of reptiles amphibians and "exotic" pets increaSing yearly it is imperative that the public and potential owners be aware of the level of care and commitment required by these animals. The unwanted and abandoned Iguanas used at this demonstration have 811 come into our possession during the last month from both Minneapolis and SI. Paul animal control and private individuals who have learned of our adoption policy. If not accepted by Petco we will attempt to care for them but our resources are strained and limited. Thank you for your support.

George W. Richard President Minnesota Herpetological Society

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MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

The PETCO Parley Part II

Iguanas without homes For Immediate Release: Wednesday, July 15, 1997

Contact: George Richard President MHS 223-0407 geohard@aol.com

On Saturday July 12, 1997 at approximately 1:30pm members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society attempted to return unwanted Iguanas at the Petco store at 753 53,d Ave NE, Fridley, Minnesota. Petco was celebrating their grand opening and the acquisition of several Pet Food Warehouse stores by selling Iguana's for $9.99. They were met by Don Cowan, Director, Communications of Petco. After an animated discussion it was agreed Petco would provide temporary housing for one Iguana at their Central Avenue store and discussions would continue regarding housing and adoption options for the remaining Iguanas.

The MHS took this action with the hope of accomplishing two goals.

1) Convince Petco and the other major pet retailers to discontinue Iguana sales in Minnesota and hopefully the Northern U.S .. Over 750,000 Iguana's were imported into the U.S. last year. The majority of them were abandoned or died due to a host of conditions related both to their low cost and their inability to survive in this climate. Peteo has made a great effort to help alleviate the pet overpopulation problem among cats and dogs through their adoption programs with local shelters. They also discontinued rabbit sales in California due to adverse conditions for the animals. Pet Food Warehouse, the company Petco is "replacing", had adopted a no Iguana Sale policy. We want Petco to reinstate this policy. By their positive actions Petco has taken on the mantle of a "Good Corporate Citizen" we hope their actions regarding the sales and distribution of reptiles will uphold that image.

2) Educate the public as to the suitability of Iguana's and other reptiles and amphibians as pets. We want to promote responsible pet ownership, care and husbandry and avoid the needless suffering and death caused by ignorance. With large numbers of reptiles amphibians and "exotic" pets increasing yearly it is imperative that the public and potential owners be aware of the level of care and commitment required by these animals.

This return was covered by KSTP and it was reported on their 5, 6 and lOPM broadcasts, complete with the inaccurate statement that Peteo had accepted the iguanas. As of today Peteo has placed only the one, original Iguana on display and has not accepted any others. They have not yet placed any other Iguanas on display and have instead proposed that the MHS plan, staff and operate an "Iguana Adoption Day" at Petco, which they will possibly provide unsaleable cages, provide store space on that day and advertise the event. The full text of the letter sent to Peteo, the signage the MHS has suggested for the Adoption Iguana Cage and the items Peteo used to set up the Central Avenue iguana cage are available. We will continue negotiations and keep you informed.

George W. Richard President Minnesota Herpetological Society

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MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

General Meeting Review Reptile Genetics Paul Hollander

As mutant animals are becoming more prevalent in the pet trade, so grows our understanding of what creates the phenomenal morphs that are popping up in herpetoculture.

Corn Snakes (Elaphe g. guttata) were the animals that started the whole subculture interest in breeding. The amelanistic Corn increased peoples awareness of mutations and started a revolution in herpetoculture. These animals are a form of color pattern mutation; one in which a pigment is "lost" genetically.

Other aberrations may take the form of a struchlfal mutation. An example of this was represented by a scaleless Northern Water Snake (Nerodia s. sipedo,,). Pattern mutation is a third form that may be noted in many species. Normally blotched animals may be partially or wholly striped. Banded individuals may experience variations in the width of the bands or may be unusually light or dark. Some individuals may exhibit higher color intensity, resulting either in the obscuration of the pattern or making it more conspicuous. Piebald specimens resemble calico mammals with patches of normal coloration distributed onto an othenvise patternless surface. Recently, more of these morphs have been combined into the same animal in such crosses as a "striped albino" phase.

Interestingly, not all mutations are fully understood. Some of the abnormalities may be physiologically attributed to incubation temperature, or possibly to areas as parental nutrition. The latter area is, of yet, largely unexplored.

Color and pattern in serpents is produced by melanophores, xanthophores and iridophores. Melanophores produce brown and black colors depending on the amount and size of the substance that is present. Xanthophores produce colors such as red and yellow. Iridophores are crystalline granules which reflect light and produce the colors blue and white. These color cells are produced in the embryo and originate near the back. As the cells are produced they migrate down the side or form in discrete areas. These may travel via nerve cells. The pattern mutations are formed by changing the migration, the timing of migration or the chromatophores simply never develop or are fewer than normal.

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By Randy Blasus Historian

In genetics, mutations may be produced by the malfunction of a single gene. Each gene has a different form and produces a different result in the animals appearance. Animals may contain similar pairs of genes (homozygous) producing a replica of the parents each time. In another case it may contain unlike pairs of genes (heterozygous) and may not breed true. Genes may be recessive. That is, the mutant gene is homozygous but is masked by the dominant one which is in control. The dominant gene is usually the one that is expressed and produces an appearance equal to that of its parentage. Unless this dominant gene is removed, the recessive one may not be observed. An animal may receive one recessive gene from each parent but still appear "normal,1I

Two types of genetic mutations are therefore available. One is via recessive genes supplied by both parents which when combined by breeding can produce albinistic individuals, for example. The other mutation that can be formed comes from specimens exhibiting a dominant mutation. This mutant can breed true and requires that the genetic material need only come from one parent.

Genetic determination of the offspring is resolved by using a figure called the Punnett square. This tool allows all possible combinations to be graphically displayed and for the resulting information to be analyzed for probability. This is simply playing tic-tac-toe with two sets of genes by combining a gene from the horizontal plane and one from the vertical plane in the square where the lines intersect. The combinations of this test should equal the results actually obtained, but as it is statistically based, results from acts of nature may interfere with the strategy.

Lastly, breedings of multiple mutations, combined with outcrosses and other assorted variation may lead to hidden recessive genes that may crop up in what should be a clutch of individuals identical to their parental units

The preceding review is a brief coverage of a subject normally covered by entire textbooks and is not intended as a complete reference. Those seeking more information should consult a local library.

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Presenting

African Leopard Tortoise (Geoc1lelone Pardalis)

Geochelone Pardalis is the first in a series of prints and products featuring turtles and tortoises of the world, reproduced from an original oil painting by respected U.S. artist Leslie Townsend. Working with the turtle and tortoise societies in the United States and the Turtle and Tortoise Trust, England, these and future products will benefit these gentle creatures. Begin collecting now!

The Tortoise Trust runs fieldwork projects in various countries in addition to co-operating with tortoise organizations throughout the world and working closely with IUNC & TRAFFIC, the world wildlife conservation and monitoring organizations.

The Trust carries out a range of research projects relating to captive care, breeding, incubation, disease prevention, diet management and classification of tortoise species. None of the research involves experiments on animals and information is readily given to anyone interested.

The world's only professional tortoise hospital is operated by the Turtle and Tortoise Trust. Each year hundreds of sick, injured and unwanted turtles and Tortoises receive the help they need from the Trust and various US societies.

These prints are reproduced on acid free paper and each one is signed by the artist.

Help keep these fascinating and fragile creatures on our planet!

African Leopard Tortoise Print Paper size 20" x 16", image size 18" x 13.5"

GP10l. .......... $50.00

9

African Leopard Tortoise Notecards 7" x 5", 10 Cards with 10 Envelopes

GP20l. ......... $12.00

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

M.H.S. Business

July Board of Directors Meeting By Randy Blasus, Historian

The MHS Board of Directors met on July 12, 1997 at the U of M Student Union. A Quorum was present.

Audit was performed on the Treasurers records for last year. No mistakes were found.

A number of members appeared at Petco to test their Iguana return policy. As they were expecting '-1S, much discussion was had between the two groups. A tenative agreementment toward mutual cooperation was reached. MHS appeared on the ChannelS News briefly during all three of their segments.

In conjunction with the above, members Jeff LeClere, Mari> Schmidtke, and Roger Statz are preparing to co-author an Iguana Care Sheet for distribution.

The Bell museum has purchased 10 copies of Amphibian and Reptile Time Table For Minnesota, Occasional Paper Number 4 for resale.

The Adoption Committee requested vitalights be purchased for the continued maintenance of animals and for funding to cover a veterinarian visit for one recently received adoption animal.

Presented and accepted: Treasurers Report and Membership Report.

Treasurer's Report of June 1997 Prepared by Marilyn Brooks Blasus

Beginning checkbook balance:

Income: Membership: Raffle Sales Rodent Sales Donations Fines Others(Pet Fair)

Total income:

Expense: Newsletter Mise prt./post. Program Library Supplies Refreshments Sales costs Donation (DAPFT) Other (Midwest)

Total Expense: Net income/(loss)

Ending checkbook balance:

385.00 53.25

362.20 532.50 534.89

0.00 272.00

426.90 0.00

50.00 0.00

151.16 24.37

509.66 100.00

2,064.24

Funds allocated to unpaid expenses Funds available

5,030.05

2,139.84

3,326.33 (1,186.49)

3,843.56 120.00

3,723.56

Conservation fund balance 215.42

MHS Coming Events

August 1, 1997 MHS General Meeting, Guest Speaker: Aaron Hampton, Program: Geckos, 335 Borlaug Hall,U of M, St Paul Campus, 7:00 p.m.

August 2,1997 MHS Board of Directors Meeting, U of M Student Union, st. Paul Campus, 7:00 p.m

August 16 - Sept. 28, 1997 Minnesota Renaissance Festival, Contact Dennis Daly (612) 331-8606

August 21 - Sept. 1, 1997 Minnesota State Fair, Animals and caretakers needed for Display in DNR Building, Contact John Moriarty (612) 647-1334

Hands On

June 26 - Aug. 26, 1997 Marketfest every Thursday Contact Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845 for further information of Hands On events.

10

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Calendar of Events

Aug. 2 -10, 1997 3,d World Congress on Herpetology. Prague, Zbynek Rocek, Dept. of Paleontology, Acad. Of Sciences, Rozvojova 135, 165 00 Prague 6-Suchdol, Czech Republic. Phone 422-24311421, Fax 422-2411578, E-mail rocek@gli.cascz.

Aug. 4-7, 1997 IV Regional Latin American & Caribbean Meeting of the Crocodiles Specialists Group CSG/IUCN, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico.For information write Dr. James Perran Ross, Executive Officer CSG, Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainseville, FL. 32611; or call (352) 392-1721; fax (352) 392-9367; or Email: prosscsg@flmnh.ufI.edu

Aug. 15-17,1997 National Reptile Breeder's Expo, Radisson Twin Towers, Orlando, Florida. Wayne Hill, P.O. Box 3277, Winter Haven, FL. 33885 or call (941) 294-2235

Aug. 16 -Sept. 28, 1997 Minnesota Renaissance Festival. Weekends Aug. 21- Sept. 1, 1997 Minnesota State Fair. State Fair grounds, 1265 Snelling Ave. North, st. Paul,

MN Sept. 13-14, 1997 5th Mid-Atlantic Reptile Show, Maryland State Fairgrounds, 4-H Hall & Days Hotel

Timonium. Show proceeds are donated to The Center for Ecosystem Survival for the purchase of rainforest. For additional information contact: Tim Hoen, Show Coordinator (410) 557-6879, P.O. Box 201, Jarrettsville, MD 21084 or check the web ( http://www.pythons.com/mars.html)

Sept. 27-28, 1997 Florida International Reptile Show, Expo Hall, Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa Fl. Presented in cooperation with the Suncoast, Tampa Bay, Hillsborough and Manasota Herpetological Societies. Show hours 10 am - 5 pm. For more information contact: Doug Wagner, Suncoast Herp. Society, P.O. Box 2725, Dunedin, FI. 34697 Phone: (813) 771-1368, E-mail: DWagner200@aol.com

Oct. 17-19, 1997 13th Annual Midwestern Herpetological Symposium, Canterbury Inn, Shakopee, MN. For more information contact Bill Moss at (612) 488-1383

11

MHS Newsletter Volume 17 Number 7

Classified Advertisements 1.0.0:: maIer 0.1.0:= female, 0.0.1::: unsexed, cb = captive bred, abo =- orbest offer

For Sale: Classified ads are free to the membership. Deadline is the night of the general meeting to be included in the next newsletter. Contact Nancy Haig 434-8684 to leave ad or mail to: MHS Editor .. Ben Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St., SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455

African Fat-tailed Geckos, Hemitheconyx calldicinctlls, cb 97, $40.00. Giant Day Geckos, Plle/slIma grand is, cb 97, $35.00. Contact Craig 934-7239

Wanted: All the shed skins in the world, always, to use at hands-on programs to give to kids. Bob Duerr (612) 541-0362

Your business card here.

Active Members may run their business cards for $5 .. 00 per month.

Corresponding Members may run two cards per year for $25.00 or have complimentary cards as space permits.

MHS Rodent Sales Pinkies Fuzzies Hoppers Adults

Mice $6.00 dozen $6.00 dozen $7.50 dozen $9.00 dozen

Rats Small Pups $10.00 dozen Large Pups $15.00 dozen Adults $12.00 six

$24.00 dozen

For pick up at monthly meetings only. Orders must be placed at least one week in advance of date of meeting at which the frozen rodents are to be delivered. Place orders with Tina (Rat Girl) Cisewski at (612) 856-2865.

MRS Merchandise: In addition to rodents the MHS offers an assortment of herp related sales items. Check out the sales area on the side of the meeting room~ before the meeting, during break, or after the meeting as time permits.

All proceeds go toward the operating costs of the society. The MHS is a completely volunteer run, non~profit

organization.

Leslie Townsend ('Tortoise :fine ;\rt)

12629 N. Tatum Blvd. Suite 402 Phoenix, Arizona 85032

1-602-996-9862

Sold To: (D.-den shipped UPS, mu.d have 3tr«f address) Ship To: (OnlylfdlfTcrentihan "'Sold To")

Daytime Phone If you have heard about these,products throug . fk' tortolSe<1u p .e~~me In t e name of your club. /i, ./,';' " .?.A-~0 &J:)'.::o..-.' po

h h I b 1

Itetp Number Quantity Description Price Total Price

GPIOI African Leopard Tortoise Print $50.00

GP201 African Leopard Tortoise Notecards $12.00

Subtotal I Shipping Prints - $5.00 I AZ Residents Add 7.05% Sales

I Shipping Notecards I o Personal Check Tax

1 - 3 pkgs. - $3.00 0 Money Order ShippingfHandling for Print

4 - 10 pkgs. - $5.00 ShippingfHandling for Notecards 11- 20 pkgs. - $6.50 'I'lianfi You:For Your Orc£er!

Total Due

12

Advertising Policies MHS Ad Policy: The MHS assumes NO RESPONSIBILITY regarding the health or legality of any animal, or the quality or legality of any product or service advertised in the MHS Newsletter. Any ad may be rejected at the discretion of the Newsletter Editor. Due to space limitations, unpaid and complimentary advertisements are subject to occasional omission.

Classified Ads: All active members are allowed a classified ad, run free of charge as space permits. Ads may be run (3) consecutive months, after which time they may be resubmitted. Corresponding members are allowed a complimentary business card advertisement monthly as space permits.

Display Ad Rates: Ad Size per Month '4 page $10.00 'h page $20.00

full page $40.00 Business card advertisements may be purchased at $5.00 per ad, per month.

Submissions: All advertisements should be submitted to the MRS Editor, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church SI. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455. Deadline is the night of the General Meeting for inclusion in the next newsletter. Make checks payable to: Minnesota Herpetological Society

__ New __ Renewal Membershi #

MHS Meeting Location

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA- ST. PAUL CAMPUS

~ 10 Hv.y 36 --.J ) LARPENTEUR 10 SneWng_

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I :::J FOLWELL C) IZ!'"' £ ... ... .... ~ "" .,.., Jl

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aOALAUG 0 HAll

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I~ ~ jSTWEHTI . \ . C CeNTER ¢EHTER

BUFORD

Meetings are the 1" Friday of the month.

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Rm. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus Start time: 7:00 p.m. MHS Voicemail: (612) 624 - 7065 Internet: http://www.onrampinc.netlmhs/

Membershi lication

T e Check #

Name __________________________________________________________________________________ _

Address __________________________________________________________________________ ___

City ________________________ State Zip ________ __

Phone ________________________ ---.email List in MHS Directory? ___ Yes __ No

Herp related interests ______________________________________________________________________ _

Active Memberships: ___ Sustaining ($60/yr) ____ Contributing ($30/yr) _____ ,Basic ($15/yr)

Corresponding Memberships: _____ Gold Commercial ($1 OO/yr 2 full pg. ads) ____ Bronze Commercial ($50/yr 2 1/4pg ads)

____ Silver Commercial ($75/yr 2112 pg. ads) ____ Basic Commercial ($25/yr 2 Bus cards)

Required check info Drivers Lie # State DOB ______ __ Please enclose the proper payment with your application. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Membership is for 12 months from the date of approval, a receipt will be sent only upon request. MAIL TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455. Please allow 6 - 8 weeks for processing.

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SE,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

..-. ~.~

+

+

POSTMASTER: DATED MATERIAL

+

+

Non-Profit Rate U.S. Postage

PAID Mpls,MN

Permit No. 2275