Vol. 14 (1994), No. 8

NEWSLETTER OF THE

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

AUGUST 1994 VOLUME XIV NUMBER 8 BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY IO CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST MINNEAPOLIS. MN 55455-0104

Do you ever have a queslion about one of your herps and wonder who might be able to provide an answer? Mosl people who keep pels of any kind have been is this situation at one lime or another. A group of MHS members has volunteered to provide assistance. Listed below are the people and their specialties. Please be reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.

Large pythons and constrictors Terrestrial turtles and tortoises Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268 John Moriarty 647-1334 Vence Jimerson 869-8547 Ann Porwoll 489-7853

Other Snakes Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268

John Meltzer 263-7880 Aquatic Turtles

John or Connie Levell 374-5422 Michele Stillinger 224-7212 Dennis Daly 331-8606

Amphibians Lizards John Meltzer 263-7880

Greg Kvanbek 533-7723 Nancy Haig 789-4637 Jeff LeClere 488-6388 Bill Moss 488-1383

Education Contact Crocodilians DavLydon 536-9783 Jeff Lang (701) 772-0227

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

MHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY RECORDING SECRETARY TREASURER NEWSLETTER EDITOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Bill Moss John Levell George Richard Randy Blasus Marilyn Brooks Michele Stillinger Gary Ash Donna Calander Jeff LeClere Barb Radanke Glen Jacobsen

SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM

LOCAL

OUT OF STATE

(612) 347-3141

(612) 221-2113

(800) 222-1222

(612) 488-1383 (612) 374-5422 (612) 623-7620 (612) 925-4237 (612) 925-4237 (612) 224-7212 (612) 753-0218 (612) 757-8268 (612) 488-6388 (612) 291-1132 (612) 757-8268

Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. The contents of this newsletter may be reproduced for inclusion in the newsletters of othcr hCI'JX!tologicai societies provided that the material is reproduced without change and proper credits are given to the MHS Newsletter, citing, volume, number, and date.

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Table of Contents ...

MHS Upcoming Meeting Highlights MHS Business MHS Meeting Review 1994 HUSSAR Joint Meeting by John P. Levell

National Herpetological Alliance announcement MHS and Pet Store Herps To Be or Not To BE: Euthanasia by Steven Barten, DVM

HFYI Classified Ads MIDWEST REGISTRATION INFO

From the Editor ...

page 3 page 4 page 5 page 8 page 10 page 12 page 13 page 15 page 16 page 19

Well, an absolutely incredible turn out for the August General Meeting. Jeff counted around 130 people. I'd say that's a new record! Special reminder this month: please fill out the sur­vey you received last month and return to the next meeting or mail to the address on the front cover. Your input is very important to us. We want to make this the best society we can. Also, for those of you who enjoyed last months speaker, and everyone else for that matter, we will be having a Herp Photo Contest. See details on page 9.

Next Newsletter Deadline: August 5, 1994

Send all articles, ads, & inquiries directly to the newsletter editor at:

MHS EDITOR 234 West George SI. SI. Paul, MN 55107

2 A1HS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

Welcome! Welcome to the Minnesota Herpetological Society! Meetings are presented on various topics, directly and indirectly, affecting reptiles and amphibians. Membership rates begin at $15.00; if you wish to join, please visit the Membership Secretary during the General Meeting held on the first friday of every month (except holiday weekends-see list below) at Borlaug Hall Room 335 on the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus. Meeting begins at 7:00 sharp. You can also join by filling out the card on the back inside cover of this newsletter.

MEETING DATES FOR 1994

August 5, 1994 September 9, 1994

October 7, 1994 November 4,1994

December 2,1994 December 3,1994 Holiday Party

MRS PURPOSE & BOARD OF DIRECTORS are listed on the inside front cover of this newsletter as well as the phone numbers of members who can ask specific animal related questions you may have.

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GENERAL MEETING AGENDA: Meeting begins at 7:00 sharp. If you are late, you can enter through the back door of the lecture room, around the corner to the right. The meeting consists of a brief address by the president on pertinent business followed by the introduction of the speaker or presentation, given by ( our Vice President. After the speaker there is a short break when you can purchase raffle tickets for an assortment of herp related prizes, buy books, t-shirts, check out library books in our well stocked herp library and talk to a friend or meet someone new. 'Following the break we have our "critter of the month", sort of a show-n-tell of your favorite herps, and the raffle drawing. Meeting ends BY 10:00 when we must leave the room, although it could end earlier allowing for more socializing. After the meeting, you may find many of our members at the local restaurants, still talking about herps!

HELPFUL mNT, board members and information people will try to answer your questions, just look for signs or members with yellow colored name tags.

MEETING ETIQUETTE: We request that talking be kept to a minimum during the presentation or when board members are speaking. This is a general courtesy to the speaker as well as the other members present. If you need to leave after the meeting has begun, please enter and exit through the back doors. For the safety of all members and animals, please do not allow children to run up and down the stairs In the lecture room or in the halls. Because the University lets us use this lecture room at no charge, all children must be with parents when in the building, once again, please don't let children run around in the halls. Treats are donated by a member(s) for all, please take one to allow everyone to enjoy! Sales other than MHS merchandise, are NOT allowed in the meeting room, transactions may be performed in the hall. Animals brought for critter of the month must stay in their cages, bags, etc., before and after critter of the month. This is for the safety of the animal, too many fingers in the pot... No venomous animals are allowed without permission from the Vice President.

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MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8 ~3 Upcoming Meeting Highlights

SEPTEMBER PROGRAM: THE REMARKABLE REPTILES

SPEAKER: JIM GERHOLDT

The featured program for September's MHS meeting, The Remarkable Reptiles, promises to be both educational and entertaining for reptile enthusiasts of all ages. Presented by one of the founding members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society, Jim Gerholdt, this program is a unique introduction to the world of reptiles which features a variety of living animals and herpetological artifacts. Since first starting this program in 1983, Jim has spoken at the events of numerous organizations and institutions, both in Minnesota and in other states, and these include regular appearances at nature centers, state parks, and the Science Museum of Minnesota. The program has now become so popular that Jim is currently doing approximately 250 presentations a year.

In addition to being a founding member of our organization, Jim is also the original MRS Newsletter Editor, a position he held from 1981 to 1987. Among his other herpetological activities, Jim serves as an advisor to the AAZPA's species survival Plan for the Aruba Island Rattlesnake and is an active member of the Friends of the Rare Amphibians of the Western Ghats (FRAWG), two conservation efforts that the MHS has contributed to. Jim, in cooperation with his wife Pam, has also written guides to the amphibians and reptiles occurring in all of Minnesota's State Parks and he has recently completed a series of children's books on amphibians and reptiles which are due to be released this fall. Jim is also an accomplished photographer, and his herp photos appear in numerous pUblications including; Captive Breeding Magazine, Reptilian Magazine, and in the forthcoming Garter and Water Snake book from Advanced Vivarium Systems. To top it all off, Jim is one of the finest herpetoculturists I've ever met and several of the animals in his care have set the longevity record for that species.

If you're interested in the natural history and/or captive maintenance of reptiles, I strongly recommend that you attend this meeting. Just make sure to bring along the younger members of the group too, as I know from past experience that they really enjoy Jim's show. It might also be quite awhile before Jim can find the time to squeeze another program for us into his busy schedule. So come on down and see the show and as an extra added bonus I promise not to say anything about zoos that don't keep reptiles, at least not till october! JPL

Upcoming Speakers

oct: Joseph T. Collins Nov: Dave Hoppe Dec: Bill Lamar

4 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

MHS Business July Board Meeting Highlights

By Randy Blasus, Recording Secretary

No board meeting due to picnic. See picnic review in this issue.

General Meeting Highlights

RAFFLE DONORS:

Dan Bergquist, Barney Oldfield, Becky Helgesen, Vir­ginia Shaw Larson, Ken and Cindy Hoeye.

CRITTER OF THE MONTH:

John Levell - Elaphe vulpina

Connie Levell - Lamproeltis getula nigritus

Chase Delles - Elaphe guttata

Ken Hoeye - Garter snake from Colorado

Laura & Julie Peterson - Ball pythons

Bill Moss - Melanistic water monitor

Beau Larson - Leopard gecko

Donna Calander - Leopard tortoise

Jake Jacobsen -??? tortoise

Dav Lydon - Marine toad

See guidelines on page two for Critter of the Month.

Other MHS Business

If you would like to donate a refreshment, such as cook­ies, for a meeting, contact Refreshment Chair Nanette Jimerson at 869-8547. Or, please make a donation in our Donation Frog on the table to help us purchase cof­fee and kool-aid.

*** MHS has started a new conservation fund at the re­quest of a past speaker, Madeleine Linck. Since April of 1994, and through September, MHS will be donating 10% of the raffle money to the Madeleine Linek Turtle

and Tortoise Conservation Fund. Madeleine Linck and Paul Buttenhoff also donated a portion of their speaker fees to this fund. If you would like to con­tribute, see Marilyn Brooks, Treasurer, at the next meet­ing, or send a check to MHS at the address on the front cover.

IT'S COMING! The book you've been waiting for! Amphibians and Reptiles Nalive 10 Minnesola, written by two MHS members, Barney Oldfield and John Mori­arty. This long awaited book, the only book in print on the herpetofauna of the upper Midwest states, is due out in October. Members will be able to purchase this fine book at a reduced cost through the society. Further De­tails forthcoming.

Special Thanks!! From Nanette Jimerson

Refreshment chair

I would like to thank all those who have donated re­freshments for our meetings: Becky Helgesen, the Rae Family, Gary Ash and Connie Levell.

Sorry to those people that I have forgotten. Please re­mind me so that you can be mentioned in the newsletter and given proper credit.

P.S. Thank you to Barb Radanke, Marilyn Brooks, Sara Richard and Greg Kvanbek for setting up and breaking down [tables and supplies 1 when I was unable to attend the meetings.

Reminders So far MHS has received less than 5% of the MHS sur­veys back. You still have time to fill one out and return to the next meeting or mail to the address on the fro nt of this newsletter. Your input is vital and important to all of us.

Thank you!

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MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8 5

MRS General Meeting Review by Randy Blasus, Recording Secretary

Our topic for August, Herp Photography, was presented by MRS member A. B. Sheldon. Anyone who read the upcoming highlights from last month knows that Mr. Sheldon is well qualified on this subject.

The first requirement for a photographer is, of course, equipment. A 35 mm camera with interchangeable lenses is suggested in order to get good closeup shots. A camera with a regular 50 mm lens can be used with the addition of an extension ring. This ring fits between the lens and the camera and is inexpensive because it contains no glass. The ring will help you focus closer to the animal. A macro lens, however, is preferred. A flash will also be needed, one that can be hand held while attached to the camera is best. This will allow the flash to be positioned for better lighting. A tip for nighttime photos involves using a small flashlight for spotting animals. Al recommended using a rubberband to fasten the small light to the camera. This method is much easier then trying to aim both light and camera separately on the subj ect.

Natural light is llQt the best light source. When the light outside is bright, scales can reflect the light and obscure any natural colors. Often it will be more productive to use a flash and natural light. When using the flash indoors an object such as a rock will be needed to catch the flash. The object will reflect the light and brighten the picture. Otherwise things will fade to black in the

background (which is unnatural) . Just tilting the surface toward the camera is usually enough, though. At times it may be best to have animals, like turtles, underwater as the colors show better. When doing this it must be totally under or "hotspots" will show from the reflection of the flash. Glare can be eliminated from pictures by holding the flash at an angle instead of straight with the camera. Aquarium shots can be dealt with similarly; except that it is often best to have the flash aimed from the top or a side adjacent to the intended picture.

One should also be familiar with ways to layout the subject in a way that will be pleasing and interesting to the viewer. Think of your photo as divided into thirds when arranging the animal (see graph below). Put the subject on one of the intersections of the lines. Horizon lines should also be thought of in thirds. Don't put the line in the middle but rather the upper or lower third. Try to make lines go diagonally across the photo as they are more interesting. Avoid putting anything that makes a line right in the corner as it looks plain. Make the line just off from the corner and it will look more pleasing to the viewer.

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Try to leave the animals as they are in nature. If you can't try and make them look as natural as possible. Animals that are skittish or should not be disturbed can be photographed through a telephoto lens. The easily disturbed animals can be placed on an artificially arranged object with a background suitable to the species, be it woods or water. using the telephoto will blur the background and keep the picture from appearing contrived.

To get a closer shot the animal may have to be positioned by moving its tail (etc.) around to get the whole animal in the picture. Another option is to frame it by using natural objects in the area. However, do not allow too many things to appear in the pictures as it will seem too busy or cluttered. Also, sometimes putting a known object, such as a penny, is good to have near the subject to show relative size.

Care must be taken or objects, such as grass, may actually obscure the intended subject. If possible, such items that are bothersome should be removed. What is behind or under the animal can also detract from picture quality. Somewhat plain backgrounds are preferred as it will not divert attention from the animal .. Be careful to make sure that the background doesn't blend with the subject and thereby blur the animals outline. It is better to have a dark animal on a slightly lighter surface, for example.

A light background may fool your light meter and darken the picture to much. To remedy this the film will have to be overexposed to compensate. A dark color will do the opposite

MHS Newsletter VolumeXJV Number 8

to the film. When it is not clear which is best, take a picture at the setting that is your best guess. Then overexpose one and underexpose another. Record the photo numbers and action taken on each and compare results.

Little can be substituted for working with animals. In repeated contact with the subjects you'll learn what does and doesn't work. For example knowing when the light is not ideal and keeping the animal until conditions are better (waiting till morning instead of taking a late evening shot). Another is using tools such as duct tape to keep reluctant turtles in their place until the production is over. These and other things are picked up gradually as the photographers interests and amount of creativity increases. Generally the best virtue one can posses, however, is patience.

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MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8 7

MHS Picnic Summary

On Saturday, August 6, 1994 at Battle Creek Regional Park, Ramsey County, we held our annual picnic. Thirty-seven people attended with most showing up around noon. This year was well attended again similar to last year. However, it did not go as smoothly. Why is that, you may ask? Well, maybe it was because of Ramsey County who seems to have no record of our reservation. Or maybe it was the old battle-axe who had liar permit and who had the police escort "the interlopers" from her shelter. Possibly it was the light mid-day sprinkling that interfered. Nonetheless a lesson was learned, "never trust governmental agencies" (especially in St. Paul)! Being the truly hardy individuals that we are; the picnic went on. Everyone seemed to have a good time even though an occasional glance uphill at our previous spot brought such comments as, "Maybe we should ask them if they've seen a Timber Rattlesnake around" or "Looks like a nice day for an acorn fight." Ultimately, it was not her fault (although her attitude needed adjusting). Instead the blame shall rest on the Parks Agency who had little in the way of sympathy and offered no recourse and accepted no blame. Next year will undoubtedly not be in Ramsey County, if this member is still the Chairperson. Suggestions for next years site can be brought to any Board Member and will be considered and checked for qualifications.

The turtle races were a success, again, with 15 entrants. No bobby prize was awarded this year due to having all participants active. The second heat had everyone worried, though, as it looked like the sun would set before there was a second place winner. However, all such fears were eliminated as the turtles soon aChieved terminal velocity. As a side note, has anyone else noticed Redfooted tortoises waging their tails while roving around? It looked quite humorous, especially from the rear angle. In any case, a good time was had by all, especially by the animals. See you next year! REB

Prizes for Heats 1 - 3 1 st - Rep-cal 2nd - Set of MHS Note Cards 3rd - MHS Patch

Grand Prizes: 1 st - Turtle Figurine 2nd - Gator Squirt Gun

Heat 1 All Small Turtles 1 st - Pancake Tortoise of Donna Calander -'Buttermilk" 2nd - Ornate Box Turtle of Chase Delles 3rd - Ornate Box Turtle of Brandon Delles

Heat 2 All Large Turtles 1 st - Redfoot Tortoise of John Levell 2 nd- Leopard Tortoise of Jake Jacobsen- 'Beast" 3 rd- Leopard Tortoise of Barb Randanke -'Julia"

Heat 3 Turtles that did not win in Heat 1 or 2 1 st - Chinese Box Turtle raced by Liz Boulds 2nd - Chinese Box Turtle raced by Dan Bergquist 3rd - Ornate Box Turtle of Julia & Laura Peterson-'Pickles"

Final Round The turtles that placed 1 st and 2nd in Heats 1 - 3 1st - Leopard Tortoise raced by Jake Jacobsen- 'Beasi' 2nd - Chinese Box Turtle raced by Dan Bergquist 3rd - Chinese Box Turtle raced by Liz Boulds

8 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

SOME COMMENTS ON THE 1994 HUSSAR JOINT MEETING

BY: JOHN P. LEVELL

starting on July 27th and running through August 1st, the Herpetologists' League (HL) and the Society for the study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR) held a joint meeting at the University of Georgia in the beautiful city of Athens. Having had the good fortune of being able to attend, I think it may be of interest to share some comments about the meeting with the rest of the membership of the Minnesota Herpetological Society.

To begin with, I must say it was quite an experience just meeting and socializing with the numerous herpetologists, biologists, and students in attendance. Researchers visiting from virtually every country imaginable eagerly swapped stories about their work or homeland's herpetofauna throughout the meeting's many breaks, and opportunities to hear interesting and often humorous tales during these "bull sessions" abounded. Some of the more recognizable and, in my mind anyway, entertaining individuals present included; Richard Shine, author of the best selling book Australian Snakes - A Natural History, noted Timber Rattlesnake researchers Bill Brown, W. H. Martin and the ever comical Tom Tyning, turtle experts Carl Ernst and John Iverson,

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herpetological historian Kraig Adler, Joe and Suzanne ( Collins, Dick Vogt; plus old friends Jeff Lang, Dave Chiszar, Madge and Sherman Minton, and a host of others too numerous to mention here.

The meeting itself was a whirlwind of activity, often with several events occurring simultaneously. Papers were presented in multiple conference rooms during the daytime hours, with the session in each room being devoted to a specific topic such as; Amphibian Behavior, snake Biology, etc. Individual symposia, including one on west Indian Herpetology and one on Turtle Phylogeography, also ran concurrently with the paper presentations. Poster sessions, a herptile art exhibit, and a live animal exhibit featuring an impressive array of Georgia's herpetofauna were presented throughout the meeting.

Evenings featured a variety of social and special events, including the traditional Ice Breaker and a barbecue. One of the highlights of these special evening events is a spectacular multi-media presentation which utilizes multiple projectors and classical music to create a herpetological slide show like no other, a definite must see for anyone even mildly interested in amphibians and reptiles. Equally enjoyable was the SSAR President's Travelogue presented on the meeting's final evening. This program, presented in three parts, featured slide presentations on the early herpetological field work of Richard Shine in Australia,

MHS Newsletler Volume XIV Number 8

COMMENTS HL/SSAR MEET CONT'D

the herpetofauna of Borneo, and Amazonian frogs. Of the three presentations, I particularly enjoyed Dr. Shine's demonstration of his fishing technique used on the venomous Black Snake, Pseudechis porphyriacus. Sandwiched between these two programs was the annual SSAR Auction, which was also a lot of fun. Over $8000 was spent during the course of this event, and all MHS members should be pleased to know that the MHS coffee mug we donated sold for $34, while our society's anniversary edition t-shirt raised over $20 for the SSAR.

All in all, this meeting was educational, entertaining, and a heck of a lot of fun. Unlike some other recent conferences, everything ran as smooth as silk and all the many events came off without a hitch. Everyone who participated in the planning and administration required for this type of event, including the various members of the Herpetologists' League and the SSAR, deserve the highest commendation, as does the entire staff of the meeting facility, the Georgia Center. Everything combined, this was one of the most memorable herp conferences I've ever attended and it was so much fun I'm already looking forward to next year. Hopefully, there will be a few more MHS members in attendance also.

Herp Photo Contest!

Corning Soon to a Society Near You!

Catagories are: 1) People with Herps 2) Herps in a Natural Setting

Time to put those skills you learned at the last meeting to good use. Check out Randy's Meeting Review for other tips. Contest will be held at

February or March Meeting so you have plenty of time. There will be prizes! More details in upcoming newsletters.

10 MHS Newsletter Volume XlV Number 8

Announcement: National Herpetological Alliance

Submitted by member Jake Jacobsen

We are pleased to announce the formation' of a new organization of importance to herpetologists and h.:rpetoculrurists. This past February. a group of concerned people convened in Dallas. Texas, to discuss the changing nature of our industry and the growing body of h3gislalion and accompanying law enforcement policies that affect it.

Individuals representing both the private and commercial seCLOfS were present, inch.lding veterinarians, herpetoculturists, delegates from regional and national herpetological societies. animal breeders and importers, and herpetological book publishers. Several of those attending were attorneys with legislative experience. Casey Allison, Gaylon Holmes. Glen Jacobsen, Marcia Rybak and Richard Strieber gave presentations. Although many of those prc$ent expressed opposing viewpoints on a variety of issues, all rccognized the pressing need to form an umbrella organization that would represent responsible herpetocldturists and herpetologists on a national level. From this consensus, the National Herpetological Alliance (NHA) was formed. The following people were elected to serve on the Alliance's governmg board: President, Jeff Nunan; Vice President, Curt Harbsmeier; Treasurer. Mike Dloogatch; Secretary, Marcia Rybak; Members at Large; Glen Jacobsen, Richard Strieber and Valarie Tyne.

The NHA differs from regional or national herpetological organizations in that it is primarily a political action group whose purpose is to lobby for the rights of responsible herpetoculturists and herpetologists to keep, breed and sell reptiles and amphibians. A secondary goal of the NHA is to act as an information resource and to provide guidelines that assist responsible practitioners of herpetoculture to remain within the law, while providing the best possible care for their captive reptiles and amphibians.

In the near future, herpetologists and herpetoculturists in this country may find themselves operating outside federal and state law as a result of legislation into which they have had no input. Several organizations around the nation are already lobbying to prevent the keeping of captive reptiles and amphibians under any circumstances. These powerful and well­funded groups are adept at soliciting money from members, many of whom may not be aware of the groups' full agenda.

We recognize that it is easier to propose and lobby for new legislation tban it is to amend or revoke laws once they are enacted. We intend. therefore. to demonstrate to pub Jic officials that we are responsible, law-abiding citizens whose activities certainly are not harmful to our neighbors and communities, and often are beneficial and educational. Although the animals we choose to study, keep as pets, or breed and sell rnay be more unusual than the standard family dog or cat, our interests are deserving of support and protection under the law.

Herpetology is a growing and mamring field. One has only to review the current herpetological literan!re available to the general public to appreciate the sophistication and technical expertise that are becoming chafacteristic of our industry or hohby. Reptiles and amphibians are becoming not only the objects of increasing sciemific interest. but more and

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MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8 11

more, they arl:' also thl:' Pl:'ts of choice to a growing number of p~oplc. The NHA need, your help to ensure that mese animals get the best carl:' possible and that fair and reasonable legislation is passed to protect our interests in these fascinating creatures.

As one of its first tasks, the :"lHA is considering funding a smdy that would propose specific guidelines for national and international shipment of amphibians and reptiles. Becausl:' poorly constroctl:'d shipping containers and ignorance on the part of shippers and airline freight handll:'rs can result in the escape or death of many valuable reptiles and amphibians, many airlines now refuse !O transport them. Such incidents damage the rl:'putation of the herpetological community and thrl:'aten to close a vital artery to our industry. The NHA has been infonne:i that airlines would welcome advice and assistance in this matter. OnCe completed, we will present the study to the airline industry and the congressional rl:'gulating committees that oversee animal imporralion. Few endeavors could better demonstrate thl:' good faith of our herpetological community.

Prior to the existence of the r-..'1:IA, me wide varkty of publications available regarding the ecology, natural history, and the captive care and breeding of hundreds of species of reptiles and amphibians has gone largely unnoticed by Congress, regulating agencies and tile lobbying groups mat frequently OppOSl:' our interests. As an information clearinghouse, the NHA will be able to offer the publications of its members to such groups and organizations. Additional, when NHA representatives have the opportunity to testify before legislative bodil:'s, they will USI:' such publications to strengthen tlll:';r arguments, and to demonstrate Ollr community'S achievements and contributions to scil:'nce.

A great deal of work remains to be done before Ollr industry achieves the recognition it deserves for its many accomplishments, At me meeting in Dallas, we took the first step of this journey. How quickly we proceed is up to you. Give some thought to the value herpetology 01' herpetoculture has added to your life. Isn't it time to demonstrate to our elected officials our achievements and the importance of preserving our industry and our hobby'? Isn't it time we speak up and provide our representatives the information they need to promulgatl:' fair and reasonable legislation in our interest? Or do WI:' really want to leave these decisions in the hands of those who have no interest in herpl:'tology or herpetoculture'l

More information about the NHA will be forthcoming. Meanwhile, we need your contributions not only to help with the initial operating expenses, but also to provide funding thl:' NHA will need to get to work on accomplishing the goals outlined above. Those who made pledges at me Dallas meeting, and others who would like make donations should send their checks to:

National Herpetological Alliance P.O. Box 5143

Chicago, Illinois 60680-5143

On a personal note, I'd like to thank all thOSl:' who attended the first NHA conferl:'nce in Dallas. Your commitment to our community and your concern for its future were apparent; your legislative awareness and expertisl:' was invaluable. I also express my heartklt

12 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

graTitude to the American Federation of Herpetocuiturists, the League of Florida Herpetological Societies and the Chicago Herpetological Society. These organizations, among oThers, not only gave financial and logistical support for the Dallas conference, bm recognized early on the changing times, and demonstrated a gratifying wiilingness to work together for our commoll good. Finally, the NHA deeply appreciates the offers of Reptile and Amphibian Maga7.ine and of Herpetology ~ctwork to contribute and to assist the NHA in its work.

Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, Jeff Nunan President, '-1tiA

MHS and Pet Store Herps Have you ever visited a pet shop to look at their herp set-ups, only to discover a bunch of dead or dying

animals? Did you walk away in disgust? Or did you patiently try to explain reptile and amphibian husbandry to an employee who didn't really seem to care?

Because herp keeping is becoming so popular, they are seen in more and more pet stores. Many of these pet stores do a very good job of keeping their herps healthy; many do not. I have seen large crickets sold to peo­ple with anoles too small to possibly eat them, dried-up newts in the bottom of a dried-up aquarium, a marine toad in a fully aquatic tank, box turtles with watering dishes two inches in diameter, and many other situations so ridiculous that they would almost be funny if they weren't so depressing.

This might be your chance to help change that. The MHS is exploring ways to encourage pet stores that calTY reptiles and amphibians to improve the

way they maintain their animals. There are some very good reasons to do this. By keeping the critters healthy, and providing customers with proper husbandry advice, a pet store will help increase enthusiasm for herps among it's customers and the public in general. The animals will be better off, and the pet stores themselves will be more successful (hopefully).

We're looking for ideas. The goal is to have some sort of a plan that will help the helps, the hobbyist, the pet stores and the MHS. At this point, we don't even know if pet stores will cooperate. We don't know if the current problems are caused by apathy, ignorance, economics, or something else. A few things have already been suggested, but we'd like your input so we can determine how (or if) we can address this situation. If you would like to share your thoughts on this subject, call one of the herpers listed below, or any board member, if you prefer.

Greg K vanbek Dan Bergquist

533-7723 489-8396 \

MHS Newsletter Volume XlV Number 8

To Be or Not To Be: Euthanasia by Steven Barten, DVM

Complements of the North Bay Herp Society ill Wisconsin

Euthanasia, the act of humanely killing animals that are hopelessly sick or injured, is a controversial topic. Some people, including animal rights advocates, don't believe euthanasia should ever be performed, regardless of the circumstances. However, many of these same people also oppose other things that herpetologists traditionally do: the keeping of animals in cages, feeding of prey items (rodents, poultry, fish, insects) to carnivorous reptiles and the collection of animals from the wild. (I often wonder if animal rights activists oppose giving a dog a flea bath or treating it for worms, because that would violate the rights of the parasites).

Most herpetologists and veterinarians alike are strong supporters of animal welfare rather than animal rights -- believing that animals may be kept as pets, kept in zoos and used for food and research, but it is our moral obligation to provide them with optimum captive conditions, balanced diets, pay attention to their behavior needs and keep them from pain and suffering.

Occasions arise when the only way to alleviate pain and suffering is to humanely euthanize captive herps. These may include irreversible illness or injury, sacrificing a small number of a larger group to diagnose a disease outbreak or culling an overcrowded collection. Many prey animals, especially rodents, are euthanized prior to feeding them to captive reptiles. This is a special circumstance in that chemical agents should not be used or the reptile eating the euthanized rodent could suffer toxic affects. When euthanasia is performed it must be performed in a humane manner.

Decapitation is an easy way to kill a reptile in that no special equipment or drugs are necessary. Nevertheless, the brain of a decapitated reptile may remainactive for up to an hour, so decapitation by itself is inhumane. It may be used if the brain is pithed, or destroyed by the insertion of a probe, immediately afterwards. Some of you may have pithed leopard frogs in high school biology prior to their dissection.

Euthanasia can be done by destroying the brain with a sharp blow to the head, on the middle and just posterior to the eyes. This can be done in an emergency, as when an animal is found hit by a car, grievously injured but not yet dead and no other method is availahle. This is among the most common methods of euthanizing feeder rodents. Care must be tuken to perform this method properly, as u soft or misdirect.:d blow could injure the patient without killing it. Large reptiles (crocodiles, monitors and big tortoises) can be killed with a gunshot of appropriate caliber to the brain.

Inhalation of various gasses can be used to euthanize animals. Some of the gasses that might be used are chlorofonn, methoxyflurane and carbon monoxide, among others. Disadvantages of this method include the need for some means to deliver the gas to an enclosed chamber holding the patient, the potential risk to the person if improper equipment is used and the difficulty in obtaining some of those agents. I once read a report of rats killed with chloroform causing sedation in the snake that ate them. This method is useful for venomous snakes in that no handling is necessary.

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14 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

Freezing has been used as a humane method to kill small reptiles under one pounds in weight. Although low temperatures do result in a state of torpor, the formation of ice crystals in the tissue is quite painful. Freezing should only be done to anesthetized animals.

The preferred method of performing euthanasia is the injection of barbiturates into a vein or into the coelomic cavity. This is how dogs and cats are euthanized when it is necessary. The technique is quick and painless, taking only minutes to perform by the intravenous route but up to several hours by the intracoelomic route. The later route should not be used if a post-mortem examination is planned. Barbiturates are controlled substances and must be administered by licensed veterinarians. Aggressive, dangerous or difficult patients may be sedated either by injection or with anesthesia prior to euthanizing. Injectable agents should not be used on animals intended for food.

In a perfect world, euthanasia would never be necessary. Since it sometimes is. the goal of this column is to promote the use of humane methods and to educate readers that some commonly used methods, such as freezing and decapitation, are inappropriate.

(From the Feb. 1994 issue of the North Hay Herpetological Society Newsleller)

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MRS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8 ~ 15

HFYI (Herpetology For Your Information) A listing of Herp related "allds~011 events, shows, conferences, seminars, etc.

MHS FUNCTIONS

MHS HANDS-ON at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, August 13th - September 25th, 1994. For the past several years, MHS and the Como Zoo Docent Society have educated and delighted the patrons of the MN Renn Fest. Come join the fun! Contact Gloria Anton to sign up for weekend shifts and get more information (861-8868 m-f Ipm-8pm or 420-6158) leave your name, phone number, and time your call can be returned (see June Newsletter for more de­tails).

CONFERENCES

10th Annual MIDWEST HERPETOLOGICAL SYMPOSIUM! October 14-16, 1994. SEE ALL OF THE DETAILS AND REGISTRATION INFO AT THE BACK OF TillS NEWSLETTER.

All OHIO Herp Conference - celebrating NOAH's 20th anniversary, September 16-18, 1994. Icebreaker at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Contact Steve Frantz, 599 Firehouse Drive, St. Louisville, Ohio 43071, Tel & Fax: (614)745-1262.

American Association of Zoo Veterinarians-Association of Reptilian & Amphibian Veterinarians-Annual Conference, October 22-27,1994. Hosted by the Pittsburgh Zoo, Pennsylvania. Contact Dr. Wilbur Arnand, Executive Director, AAZV, 3400 West Girard Ave, Philadelphia, Penn 19104-1196, Tel: (215)387-9094, Fax: (215)387-2165.

OTHER EVENTS

Mid Atlantic Reptile Show 94, Maryland State Fairgrounds, September 16-18, 1994. Pro­ceeds to purchase rainforest through the Ecosystem Survival Plan. Contact Tim Hoen, Mary­land Herp Society, 2643 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218, Tel: (410)557-6879.

16 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

Classified Ads 1.0.0 ~ male, 0.1.0 - female, 0.0.1 ~ unknown, ad rates on inside back cover of newsletter

For Sale

1.1 snow corns, young adults, $50 ea $90 pr; 1.0 ame­lanistic com, beautiful adult, $35; 1.0 normal com, big adult, $25. Can Becky evenings (612)699-8031.

Striped Burmese pythons, $50 ea; ban pythons, $40 ea; savannah monitors, $40 ea; golden tegus, $75 ea; speck­led caimens, $125 pr; plumed basalisks, $75 ea. Can (612)388-2872.

1994 hatchlings, avail now! Western hognose, feeding on pinks, going fast, $30; exceptional Pueblan milk­snakes, $50-75; ghost and creamsickle corns, $30; ame­lanistic and anerythristic corns, $20; "intermontana" Emoryi, $75; mex.mex., exceptionally bright, $50; Mexican black kingsnakes, most pure black, $35; gray­bandedkingsnakes, light, bright, Blairs, $75-100; leop­ard geckos, $20; surplus adult snakes avail. Quantity discounts avail. All calls returned. Joel (814)724-8351.

3.4 Carpet pythons, handpicked '93 breeders expo, un­related, $175-200. Pager 643-8778, hm 774-6786.

Baby Burmese pythons, captive born, $50 each. Con­tact Jay Whitesel at (507)367-2470.

Baby ball pythons, $55; baby green water dragons, $40; 1.0.0 northern pinesnake, black & white, $90; 0.0.1 black pine, 3 ft, $90. Contact Mike at (507)289-9833.

1.0.0 Common boas,juv. 3 ft, male dark, female light tan, both captive born, $175 pr, $100 ea; 1.0.0 ball python,3 ft, $75; 1.0.0 Bimini boa, very long term cap­tive, wild caught on Bimini, needs vertical cage, current cage avail, $125, $200 w/cage. All snakes feeding on frozen rats. Cuban cockroaches also for sale. Contact Jake or Donna at (612)757-8268.

Captive bred children's pythons, $125; Brazilian rain­bow boas, $250; Columbian rainbow boas, $85; Hogg Island boas, $350. Due May/June, can deliver to Twin Cities. Contact Mark Wendling (319)857-4787.

1.1 Guyanan red-tailed boas, $650 for pair. Contact Fred or Liz (612)476-0306.

Wanted

All the shed snake skins in the world, always, to use at hands-on programs. Bob Duerr 541-9417.

VOLUNTEERS! Get involved with your herp

society! Meet new and exciting people! MHS is AL­WAYS looking for volunteers for different events and MHS committees such as Hands-on and Newsletter foldings. Currently we are looking for individuals inter­ested in helping out the adoption committee. Please contact President Bill Moss for more info on these op­portunities. Thanks for your support!

Misc.

Snake skins tanned. Call Jane for more info at 724-7437.

BOA SURVEY: Please write for my questionnaire 011

boa constrictor reproduction. Even if your animals have not reproduced, please respond ifthey are at least 4 years old and have had the opportunity. In return for a completed survey you will receive a chart showing the subspecies, their scale counts and range. William Joy, P.O. Box 300703, Arlington, TX 76007, USA. INTER­NET: [email protected]

o P H I D I A N

The Ophidian Herpetological BBS

(602) 837-7305 Multiple Message Bases. New FilC$ Weekly. On Lin< HC'fl) Vet. B~ ListS, Herp Society Information, Herp Hunnng Reports..

Cla.s.sll'ic:d Ads. and Ornine ReJ.den (or Long DLsunce Callen.

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MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 8

Classified Ads Continued ...

MRS Merchandise

RAT & MICE SALES

Mice: Pinkies - $6.00 doz. Fuzzies- $6.00 doz. Adults - $9.00 doz.

Rats: Pups - $10.00 doz. Adults - $12.00 six

$24.00 doz.

Orders taken by Terry Scheiber only. Must be at least one week in advance of general meeting where they will be delivered. Tel: (612)440-7482.

MISC.

MHS also offers an assortment of other herp related items for sale at the general meetings including:

books magazines posters notecards t-shirts

buttons stickers bumper stickers patches

Look for sales of merchandise at the far right hand side of the meeting room. Transactions can be han­dled before the meeting, during the break and after

the meeting ends if time allows. All proceeds from the sale ofMHS merchandise goes towards the costs of running the society such as: Speaker fees, library books, charitable donations, etc. MHS is a non­profit organization and is volunteer run.

For Sale or Petting Zoos Parties or Promotions

ANIMALS OF WALTON'S HOLLOW Exotic & Farm Animals

Bill & Jean Walton 5425 Peterson Road

White Bear Lake, MN 55127-6713 (612)426-8163

Featuring .. .IAMS ... Natural Life .. .science Diet Tetra ... Toppers ... Other Specialty Foods

VIVARIUM PETS A Full Line of Pet Supplies &

Unusual Pets

6519 Nicollet Ave. S. Richfield, MN 55423

Gloria Anton 612-861-8868

Largest Selection or Reptiles & Amphibians in Minnesota Cages, Books, Feed & Supplies

6519 Nicollet Ave. So. Richfield, MN 55423

M-F 10-8 Sat. 10-6

Sun. l2·5 (612)861-8868

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18

JOHN & RUTH MELTZER (612) 263-7880

WE HAVE CAPTNE BRED,

BEARDED DRAGONSf CHJN?SE WA1ER

DRAGONS! VEILED CHAMEl..EONS! AND MANY!YPES OF'

GECKOS!

MHS Newsletter Volwne XIV Number 8

SECORD'S EXOTIC ANIMAL HOUSE BILLY SECORD - (612)920-1987

LARGEST PRODUCER OR SMALL EXOTIC MAMMALS IN MINNESOTA!

HEDGEHOGS, DUPRASIS, ZEBRA MICE, PYGMY MICE, GIANT AFRICAN POUCHED RATS, JIRDS, MOUSE LEMURS, BRUSH-TAILED KANGAROOS, AND MUCH, MUCH MOREl - U.S.D.A LICENSED

BREEDING INVENTORY SURVEY: Everyone keeping live reptiles and amphibians is asked to contribute to this annual report, Please submit the following information current January 1st of each year. (1) inventory or your collection, list numbers and sex, (2) list all species bred during the previous year, (3) any longevity records, (4) please print clearly, your name, address, and telephone number as you want them listed, (5) please do respond, Send all information to: Frank Slavens, P.O. Box 30744, Seattle, WA 98103. Fax: 206-546-2912.

TIMBER RATTLESNAKE - LIMITED EDITION PRINT

BY DAN KEYLER This print is from an original pen & ink drawing and is limited to an edition of 141 signed and numbered prints. Each print will cost $15 and can be personalized upon request. MHS members interested in purchasing a print should contact the artist at MHS meetings or by

calling (612)347-8760 (W) or (612)933-2055 (H). Proceeds will be used to recover printing costs and further Tim­

ber Rattlesnake research in Minnesota. So place your order soon -they won't last long!

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. FEATURED SPEAKERS Partial list

Keynote Speaker: Phillipe de Vosjoli Noted author and publisher of Advanced Viva­rium Systems; President and founder of the Arneri­can Federation of Herpetoculrurists. Biophilia - complexity and the fimm of herpetoculture

Banquet Speakers: Joseph and Suzanne Collins Joseph Collins, co-author of Peterson's Field Guides; Suzanne Collins, wildlife photogra­pher. Evolutionary species concq>t and its implication for herpetoculturists.

!!Ie: Ronald R. Goellner Deputy General Curator; Curator of Reptiles, St. Louis Zoo. T uataras in the wild and in captivity

W" J ff Elfl' ~". e mg Curator of Herpetology; Sedgwick County Zoo Topic to be announced

KCHS Auction: This auction will be held:

Saturday, October 15 After the banquet, 9:00 PM

Vendors are expecred to donate a dry good item to the auction.

No live specimens will be auctioned.

The auctioneer will be Joseph T. Collins.

Bob Clark Private Breeder Matrrnal incubation in pythons

Jerry Immelhun, D.V.M. Sexual determination by saline injection

Dr. J. Brad Uchtenhan, M.D. Envenomation and treatment of snake bites

!f!! Kevin Muchnick Private Breeder Advanced caging and husbandry of the Croco­dile Monitor (Varanus salvadori)

• Robert Powell, Ph.D. Topic to be announced

li!tl Jack Schoenfelder Department Chair of Business Technology at Ivy Tech State College; Past President of Chicago Herpetological Society Marketing Herpetology

Additional speakm have bun invited; confinnation not

availabk at the time o[print.

0-n c ..... _. o ::J • •

Hotel Registration: The Park Place Hotel is located at:

435 & Front Street Kansas City, Missouri 483-9900 • 800-821-8532 Ou'-<>fT,um

Room Rates: The room rate(s) for one to four people per room is $65.00 per night. Suites are $85.00 and $95.00 per room! per night.

Live animals are permitted in the sleeping rooms; however, they must be properly caged and covered in an area or position so as not to alarm hotel personnel.

Symposium Registration: Registration for the Paper Sessions is only $48.00 per person. Late registration (received after October 1, 1994) will be $60.00. The banquet dinner is $18.00 per person.

Paper Sessions only -­

Full Registration ----

$48.00

$66.00

Late Registration $60.00 without Banquet (after 1011/94)

Late Registration $78.00 with banquet

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.J~-________________________________________ _

Symposium Registration Form: Name ________________________________ __

Address ______________________________ _

Clly ___________ state __ _ ZIp ____ ~

Day Phone _______ Evening Phone _________ _

No.Attendlng:

____ 0 Paper Sessions only -$48.00

___ 0 Paper Sessions w/Banquet -$66.00

_ __ 0 BanqueIOnly-$18.00

_ __ 0 Late Reglst. No/Banquet -$60.00

___ 0 Late Regist. w/Banquet -$78.00

:t.$ ____ AMOUNT ENCLOSED

Will spouse/children be requesting the bus _ Yes to Worlds of Fun or shopping excursion? _ No

How many people?

Vendor/Breeder Registration Form: $20.00 Fee for 8 fl. Table (Table fee is waived if a dry good item is donated for the auction.)

# ofTables --- Amount Enclosed $ _____ 0 Fee Wawed (Do"",!.n will b, m4d< '" .OKMn)

Name---------__________________ __

Address ____________________________ _

Clty ________ _ State Zip _____ _

Day Phone ___________ _ Evening Phone --____ _

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CLASSIFIED AD INSTRUCfIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members. MHS takes NO responsibility for legality or health of 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 ad is limited to four (4) typed lines or one (1) standard size business card. DEADLINE for all newsletter items is one week before the general meeting.

NON MEMBER & EXPANDED SIZE ADS: Line ads:$.10 per word. Business Cards: $5.00 per month.

Quarter page ads: Half page' ads: Full page ads:

One month only $10.00 per month $20.00 per month $40.00 per month

Three or more months $7.50 per month $15.00 per month $25.00 per month

Six or more months $5.00 per month $10.00 per month $15.00 per month

Send all newsletter items to: Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter Editor, 234 West George Street, St. Paul, MN 55107.

MEMBERSHIP AND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM MINNESOT A HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

NAME(S) ______________________________________________________________ __

ADDRESS __________________________________________________________ ~-------

CITY ________________________ _ STATE ____ __ ZIP CODE

PHONE _______________ __ LIST IN MHS DIRECTORY? YES NO __

HERPRELATEDINTERESTS: _______________________________________________________ _

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP? NEW __ RENEWAL __ _

MEMBERSHIP LEVEL? _----'SUSTAINING ..... S60.00

___ CONTRIBUTING ..... $30.00

.----lNSTITUTION .... $25.00

_--"BASIC .... $15.00

Are you currently (or will be) a University of Minnesota student? __ (check if yes)

HOW DID YOU HEAR OF MHS? _____________________________________________________ _

Newest T-Shirts Two Designs ($17.00 includes postage)

Circle Choice North American Turtles Iguana (Head Shot)

Indicate how many of each size SMALL___ LARGE __ _

ADULTS: MEDIUM __ _ X·LARGE __ _

NEW POISON DART FROG T-SHIRT

($14.00 postage included) Indicate how many of each size

SMALL __ _ LARGE __ _ KIDS __ _ ADULTS:

MEDIUM___ X-LARGE __ _

Please enclose payment. MAKE CHECKS PA YABLE TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society. Membership is for 12 months from date of joining. A receipt will be sent only on request. Allow 6-8 weeks for processing. MAIL TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Bell Museum Of Natural History, 10 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

10 CHURCH STREET S. E. MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

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DELIVER BY AUGUST 31,1994

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+

Non-Profit Rate U. S. Postage

PAID MpJs.MN

Pennit No. 2275