NEWSLETTER OF THE

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

JUNE 1993 VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

Do you ever have a question about one of your herps and wonder who might be able to provide an answer? Most people who keep pets of any kind have been is this situation at one time or another. A group of MRS members has volunteered to provide assiSlance. 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 Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268 Vence Jimerson 869-8547

Lizards Nancy Haig 789-4637 Bill Moss 488-1383 Drew Newman (Iguana) 774-6008

Terrestrial turtles and tortoises John Moriarty 647-1334 Ann Porwoll 489-7853

Other Snakes John Meltzer John Levell Connie Delles

Amphibians John Meltzer Greg Kvanbek Drew Newman

Aquatic Turtles Michele Stillinger Dennis Daly

263-7880 374-5422 374-5422

263-7880 533-7723 774-6008

377-8637 633-8370

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

Glen Jacobsen John Levell Connie Delles Drew Newman Marilyn Brooks Michele Stillinger Jeff LeClere Bill Moss Hans Paulson Sara Richard John Meltzer

SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM

LOCAL

OUT OF STATE

(612) 347-3141

(612) 221-2113

(800) 222-1222

(612) 757-8268 (612) 374-5422 (612) 374-5422 (612) 774-6008 (612) 431-2146 (612) 377-8637 (612) 467-3715 (612) 488-1383 (715) 425-7959 (612) 623-7620 (612) 263-7880

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

<A

At last! Three T-sh rts that really express your interest in reptiles. Sh rts are 100% white cotton with vivid 10-color designs filled with asst. reptiles.

flijin orest design

This Anniversary design is also available in a 24" x 33" print for $20 + $4 StH. (Unframed). ~ T·Shirt sizes are: M, L, XL, XXL. $15ea + $3 StH. Add $1 StH each additional shirt. International

orders add $5 StH per shirt. U.S. funds ONLY. White Tank I XL ~ T-Shirts not sold to general public in California.

California residents call for store in your area. ~ California Zoological Supply does not sell

reptiles to the general public. Reptiles only sold to retail pet shops & zoos.

We are always interesled in buying all of your captive·ralsed reptiles. Please send or call with our avaiiabiJit list. Ask for Trone. ' Fax:

MHS C1assified Ads

All proceeds from the sales of MRS merchandise and donated items goes towards the operating costs of the society such as; speaker fees, books for the library, herp related charitable donations, newsletter printing, etc. MHS is a non - profit organization and is volunteer run.

Rat and Mice Sales

MICE

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

RATS

Pups - $10.00 Adults - $12.00

$24.00

doz. for six doz.

Orders taken by Terry Scheiber only! Must be made at least one week before the general meeting where they will be delivered.

Phone: (612) 440-7482

***** Mice and rats must be purchased by the dozen except for adult rats which can be purchase in allotments of six. Rat pinkies unavailable. *****

Cage Sales

Cages come pre-built but unfinished with the following; laminate interior, hinged mitered door, glass window, latch, incandescent light fixture and cord. A 7.5 watt bulb will be included. Some cages are available for immediate purchase at the meetings.

*** MHS does not take responsibility for any injuries to animal if purchaser uses a higher wattage bulb or other hardware. *** Specifications 1 x w x h

small: 24 x 18 x 12 $ 50 large: 48 x 18 x 18 $ 75

MHS also offers an assortment of other herp related items for sale at the general meeting. These include:

Books T-shirts Posters Note cards

MHS stickers MRS buttons Assorted Donated items

Look for sales of MRS merchandise and items at the far right hand side of the meeting room. Items will be for sale during the break and before and after the meeting if time permits. Please have sales final before the meeting begins so as not to disrupt the meeting proceedings.

The new MHS T-SHIRTS are now in!! And they look great. They have a multi colored dart frog on the frontof a white shirt and our logo on the sleeve. The shirt is 100% preshrunk cotton. Sizes are in kids and adults. Price is $12.00.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 19

CLASSIFIED ADS ttt 1.0.0 ' male, 0.1.0 ' feeale, 0.0.1 ' unknown

10K SALK:

1.15 Brazilian rainbow boas (Epicrates cenchria cenchria) C.B. '93 - $225. 6.7 Columbian rainbow boas (Epicrates cenchria saurus) C.B. '93 - $95. 1.1 D'Albert's pythons (Liasis albertisi) C.B. '92 - $400.00 pro Can deliver to the Iwin Cities. Contact Mark or Kathy Wendling at (319) 857-4787.

Veiled chameleons, $100. Boas, $75. Ball pythons, $40. Green Iguanas, $25. Niles, $50. Tokay Geckos, $15. Cages, heat tape & mise accessories. Contact Hans at (715) 425-8888.

Solomon Island boas, Candoia carinata paulsoni, yearlings to 3 year Juveniles. All captive bred and feeding well on dead mice. Unrelated pairs available. Prices start at $75.00 Call Steph Porter (612) 690-2589.

20 gallon long complete aquarium set up, with powerhead, gravel, rocks, flor. light, rod iron stand, and fish if you want them -$100. Call Rob at 690-9030.

1.1 Burmese pythons, 5 yr old male, outstanding breeder, female breedable next year, $750 pro Call Karl at (612) 774-1044.

1.0 Yellow anaconda, 2.5' & exhibit - $180.00. 0.1 Ball python, 18" - $60.00. 0.1 Burmese python, 5'- $200. Call Shannon at (612) 388-7435 after 3:30pm for more info.

New World Monkey Chow, vegetarian formula, $1.50 lb. 60v red light, tvo per pack, $6.00, 7.5v clear ned. base bulb, $1.)5, 7.5v red ned. base bulb, $2.25. Call Jodi at: 552-1545. Leave message.

JIISC:

BOA SURVEY: Please write for my questionaire on Boa constrictor reprouction. Even if your animals have not reproduced, please respond if they are least 4 yrs 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 821433, Dallas, IX 75382-1433.

FAUNA CLASSIFIEDS: Monthly classified publication for reptiles, amphibians, food items & supplies, literature and more. Excellent information source, worldwide circulation. Subscription $14.00 year. Free sample & info. Write: FAUNA, 2379 Maggio Circle Unit C, Lodi, CA 95240.

1993 HERPETOLOGICAL DIRECTORY: A valuable information source containing private & connercial breeders, foreign exporters, U.S. & foreign herp societies, wholesalers, sources for rodents & other food items, supplies & equipment, and publications. Send $15.00 to FAUNA, 2379 Maggio Circle Unit C, Lodi, CA 95240.

~ .. • 4056 Central Avenue N. E .

.,l L =rO?Cd.L Columbia Heights. MN 55421

- COnCi:?tl

PHil PAlAN

PETS & SUPPLIES Tropical and Marine Aquaria Garden pools and Aviaries

Food and Supplies for all P~ts

(612) 781-0805

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUNaSR 6 Page 18

PRESIDENT Richanl A. Ross

Institute for Herpetological Research

PO Box 2227 Stanford. CA 94309, USA

VICE PRESIDENT . Louis W. Porms

Zooherp, Inc. 235 West 9210 South

Sandy, UT 84070, USA

TU.ASURn David Hulmes

361 Van Winkle Ave. Hawthorne, Nl 07506, USA

SECRETARY Michael Uricheck

Western Connecticut State University

77 Faber Ave. Waterbury, cr 06740, USA

PAST PRESIDENT Brian Backner

17 Margaret Rd. Sharon, MA 02067, USA

GENERAL'EDITOR Gordon W. Schuett

Dept. of Zoology University of Wyoming

POBox 3166 Laramie, WY 82071, USA

SECI10N EDITORS Ecology, Behavior and

Evolution William W. Lamar

School of Sciences and Mathematics

. Universi~ of Texas at Tyler

3900 University Blvd. Tyler, TX 75799, USA

Husbandry Lyndon A. Mitchell

Dept. of Herpetology Dallas Zoo

621 E. Oarendon Dr. Dallas, TX 75203, USA

Genera! Herpelology Martin 1. Rosenbe

Dept. ofBio10 y Case Western Rese

University 2080 Adelbert Rd.

Oeveland,OH 44106, USA

INTERNATIONAL HERPETOLOGICAL SYMPOSIUM, INC.

5/30/93 Dear Fellow Herpetologist;

The IHS has undergone many changes in the year following the 1992 International Herpetological Symposium. As the new PreSident, one of my first priorities was to reduce the operating expenses of the IHS so as to reduce the registration cost of the Symposium. Also, the Board of Directors of the IHS felt that a change in the format of the IHS Proceedings was appropriate. To achieve these two goals, registrants of the 1992 will be given an unedited, bound copy of the IHS papers. Additionally, the IHS will begin publication of a new, refereed and professionally edited journal, Herpetological Natural History. This journal will publish papers in areas such as field biology, natural history, husbandry, and herpetological veterinary medicine. Some papers published in Herpetological Natural History will come from those presented at the IHS meetings. Others will be published that were submitted directly to the journal.

As a registrant of the 1992 IHS meeting, you are entitled to receive the IHS publication. Since not all of the 1992 IHS papers will appear in Herpetological Natural History, you will receive both the premier issue, Volume 1, Number 1, of the journal, as well as an unedited set of the IHS papers not included in the first issue of the journal. Unfortunately, some speakers at the 1992 IHS meeting failed to submit their papers, so these cannot be included.

The premier issue of Herpetological Natural History is now in press. Because the publication of a journal of this nature is complex, the printer cannot guarantee that it will be completed by the 1993 IHS meeting. If it is not completed in time for the 1993 IHS meeting, it will be mailed to you with the copies of IHS papers. However, if you are planning to attend the IHS meeting this June, you will receive your copy of the unedited 1992 IHS papers at that time. After the 1993 meeting, the journal will no longer be provided at no charge to IH~ registrants, but will be available by subscription.

The publication of this new journal is an exciting achievement for the International Herpetological Symposium, and we are looking forward to the release of the premier issue. The 1993 IHS meeting in Miami Beach promises to be exciting, informative, and lots of fun. I hope to see you therel

Si~ ely,. Zl1:L. Ricl],ar Ross, MD, ' . resident, IHS

MHS NEWS LETT R VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 17

Federal Candidate Reptiles and Amphibians in Minnesota

REPTILES

Blanding's turtle, Emydoidea b7andingii (2), R6 lead. MN DNR Threatened. Anoka, Chisago, Goodhue, Hennepin, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Wabasha, Wadena, Winona Cos.

Eastern massasauga, Sistrurus catenatus catenatus (2), R3 lead. MN Special Concern. Wabasha Co.

AMPHIBIANS

Hellbender, Cryptobranchus a77eganiensis (2), R4 lead. MN DNR Unlisted. Presence uncertain.

(2) • More information needed before a listing decision can be made.

R3 lead = Ft. Snelling Regional Office of the FWS coordinating the status review.

R4 lead = Atlanta, GA, Regional Office of the FWS coordinating the status review.

R6 lead = Denver, CO, Regional Office of the FWS coordinating the status review.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 16

In 1973 Congress passed a law called the Endangmd Species

Act. The purpose of this law is:

If to identifY animals and plants that are in trouble; and

• to protect these animals and plants and their habitats.

The u.s. Fish and Wildlife Service keeps a list of animals and plants that are protected by the Endangered Species Act.

There are about 640 animals and plants from the United States on this list of endangered and threatened species:

• An endangered species is in danger of extinction throughout the area in which they are usually found.

If A threatened species is one that could become endangered in the near future.

Ten species found in Minnesota are on the Federal list.

Federally Listed Animals and Plants in Minnesota

MAMMALS Gray wolf (f)

BIRDS Peregrine falcon (E) Bald eagle (f) Piping plover (E & T)*

MUSSELS Higgins' eye pearly mussel (E) Winged mapleleaf mussel (E)

PLANTS Minnesota dwarf trout lily (E) Prairie bush-clover (T) Western prairie fringed orchid (T) Leedy's roseroot (f)

E = Endangered T = Threatened • = Endangered in the Great Lakes drainage, threatened in the rest of its range, including Lake of the Woods.

Page 15

{l,S. FISH 4. WILDUFE

SERVICE FISH & WILDLIFE

cts U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR - FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE

THE U.S. ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

The U.S. Endangered Species Act was passed on December 28, 1973, to prevent the extinction of many species of animals and plants. The Act provides strong measures to help alleviate the loss of species and their habitats. It places restrictions on a wide range of activities involving endangered and threatened animals or plants to help ensure their continued survival. With limited exceptions, the Act prohibits activities with these protected species unless authorized by a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

By definition, an "endangered species" is an animal or plant listed by regulation as being in danger of extinction. A "threatened species" is any animal or plant which is likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future. The U.S. List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants includes both native and foreign species.

A. WHAT IS PROHIBITED BY THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT?

Without a permit, it is unlawful for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to commit, attempt to commit, solicit another to commit, or cause to be committed any of the following activities: .

For All Endangered and Most Threatened Wildlife

Import or export. Deliver, receive, carry, transport, or ship in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity. Sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce. Take within the United States and its territorial seas or upon the high seas ("take" means to harm, harass, pursue, hunt, shoot, 'wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct). Possess, ship, deliver, carry, transport, sell, or receive unlawfully taken wildlife.

For All Endangered and Most Threatened Plants

I mport or export. Deliver, receive, carry, transport or ship in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity. Sellar offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce. Remove and reduce to possession from areas under Federal jurisdiction.

The prohibitions apply equally to live or dead animals or plants, their progeny (seeds in the case of plants), and parts or products derived from them.

MHS NEWSLETTmtVOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 14

FISH & WILDLlt- E

Facts U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR - FISH l WILDLIFE SERVICE

--------------------------------~--~------------------ -----

CAPTIVE-BRED WILDLIFE REGISTRATION UNDER THE U.S. ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT 50 CFR 17.21(g)

The captive-bred wildlife registration regulation became effective on September 17, 1979, and is now codified at 50 CFR 17.21(g). The registration system was implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) in an effort to decrease the Federal permit requirements for captive-born, exotic, endangered and threatened wildlife, when the prohibited activities being carried out with such wildlife could be shown to enhance the propagation or survival of the affected species.

What types of wjldlife are covered?

Living wildlife listed as Endangered or Threatened under the Endangered Species Act (Act), having a natural geographic distribution (including historical range) not including any part of the United States, and bred in captivity in the United States may be covered by the registration. On a species-by-species basis, the Director of the Service may determine that particular species native to the United States are eligible for the registration. At the present time, the only native species that has been granted eligibility under the registration is the Laysan duck (An!1 laysanensis).

What activities are prohibited by the Act?

Without a permit, it is unlawful for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to commit, attempt to commit, solicit another to commit, or cause to be committed any of the following activities:

o Take within the United States and its territorial seas or upon the high seas ("take" means to harm, harass, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct).

o Del'ver, receive, carry, transport or ship in inte'rstate or foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity.

o Sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce. o Import or Export o Possess, ship, deliver, carry, transport, sell or receive

unlawfully taken wildlife. FWS-F-014 For further information, contact:

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6

Office of Management Authority Fish and Wildlife Service 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Room 432 Arlington, Virginia 22203 (703) 358-2104

Page 13

EDITORIAL: AND NOW FOR THE BAD NEWS

Well, folks, we lost the first battle in the Sharon Springs rattlesnake slaughter mess (it actually occurred) and we have now lost the second battle. Yes, Senate Bill No. 137 (a number that should live in infamy) passed with flying colors and has been signed by La Guv, so it is now entirely legal to go out and massacre rattlesnakes in the state of Kansas. In fact, the bill was amended in the State House and will exempt this year's hunt so that a law that was supposed to go into effect next year goes into effect immediately. It will also allow "hunters" to take not five, not ten, not fifteen, but thirty rattlesnakes. There is no delicate way to put this: we got screwed. The snakes got nailed even worse.

I have never been so mad in all my forty-some years about the way a conservation issue has been handled in this state. This bill is easily, in my estimation, the most anti-conservation piece of legislation ever passed in Kansas and sets a precedent that jeopardizes all future conservation issues for years to come. You see. it is apparent to me now that all you have to do, if you don't like the fact that a certain piece of law is based on sound biological principles and has been constructed on the advice and consultation of acknowledged experts, and it affects your ability to put a few extra bucks in your pocket, well, all you have to do is get a legislator in your hip pocket, write the bill for them, have them work their deals in Topeka, and, bingo, you can do whatever the hell you want to do. Conservation be damned! So much for natural Kansas, people; the dollar rules, So much for the agency that is supposed to be protecting the wildlife resources of this statc (GO you think that Wildife and Parks took a stand on this bill in the legislature? Think again), It is a mighty sad state of affairs and it disgusts me that the good people of Kansas are so ill-represented by their elected and non-elected officials.

So, what to we do now? Well, there really isn't much we can do at this point, although the KHS Executive Council is examining certain approaches. I'll tell you what I plan on doing, though. As long as there is a rattlesnake slaughter in Wallace County, that area will never see a penny of my money. I plan on writing a letter to the Sharon Springs Chamber of Commerce to that effect. I will also tell them that I plan on recommending to everyone I know that they do the same thing. I may even send copies of that letter to every herpetological and conservation organization I can think of and let them know that, should their members happen to be passing in the vicinity of Sharon Springs along 1-70 (or any other road in the area), it is probably a good idea to not buy anything from Colby (the home town of the Senator who wrote and sponsored the original bill) until their members reach the Colorado line. Better gas up at Hays, folks.

Certain folks in Sharon Springs organized this event to try to raise a few extra bucks because agriculture there has gone in the dumper. When they eliminate their roundup or change it to a non-destructive event, I will be happy to contribute to their economy. I will wait as long as it takes and as those who know me well can testify, I can be one stubborn SOB.

-EMR

[Writing to our elected officials is one of the simplest and most effective ways to influence public policy on behalf of the environment. Here are some tips on effective tools (DO'S and DONT'S) for letter writing (courtesy of the Audubon Society): DO address it properly (ex. The Honorable so and so), identify the bill or issue, make sure the letter is timely, focus on your own delegation, be reasonably brief, ask for a response, write your own views, give your reasons for taking a stand, show understanding, be constructive, ask for specific action, share expert knowledge with representative, use personal or business letterhead if possible. DON'T make threats or promises, berate your representative, pretend to wield vast political influence or try to instruct your representative on every issue that comes up (don't be a pen pal). - ed.}

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 12

To whom it may concern,

The state of Kansas has recently experienced its first and second organized "rattlesnake roundups." Legislation was passed in the Kansas Legislature recently that circumvents

Officers ror 1993 previous wildlife law concerning non-game species and now makes its legal for anyone with the President appropriate permits to collect up to thirty rattlesnakes for commercial purposes in Kansas.

DR. DAVID EDDS Although the species initially targeted is the prairie rattlesnake <Crotalus v. viridis), this recent Division of Biological sdenceslegislation does not specifically identify which species of rattlesnake may be harvested, thereby ~~x 4050

5 U" threatening all three species of rattlesnake found in Kansas.

clllpona tate Olverslty Emporia. Kansas 66801 (316)341·5622

President·Elect Allan Volkmann

1650 North Melrose Wichita. Kansas 67212 (316)721-2688

Past President DR. DWIGHT PLAIT

Members of the Kansas Herpetological Society have been actively working against both this roundup and this legislation. Unfortunately, our efforts have been unsuccessful up to this point. I have recently called for a boycott of the city and county in Kansas where this roundup is occurring and for a boycott of the city from which the state legislator who introduced the "rattlesnake bill" lives (see enclosed). At this time, I would like to ask for your assistance in spreading the word about this boycott and to ask your lltem.bers to panicipate in the boycott, if possible.

Department of Biology The cities I have specifically targeted are Sharon Springs and Colby. Sharon Springs is the horne BethelColleg. of the roundup and Colby is the residence of the bill's sponsor. Sharon Springs is isolated from North Newt;~ Kansas 67117 any major thoroughfares in Kansas but Colby lies directly on Interstate 70. Ifpossible, ask your (316)283-2 members to avoid making any purchases in Colby should they happen to be passing through. Secretary/Treasurer Travelers should plan on getting gasoline and other essentials at Goodland on the west or Oakley

KAREN TOEPFER on the east of Colby. 303 West 39th Street Hays, Kansas 67601 (913)628·1437

Editor ERIC M RUNDQUIST

Sedgwick County Zoo 5555 Zoo Boulevard Wichita. Kansas 67212 (3161942-2213 FAX (316)942-3781

Boycotts have little effectifno one is aware that one is occurring. To make sure that these towns understand that they are subjects of a boycott, I ask your assistance in asking your membership to write to the Chambers of Commerce ofthe respective towns and let them know that they are participating. The address for Sharon Springs is: Sharon Springs Chamber of Commerce, Sharon Springs, Kansas 67758. For Colby it is: Colby Chamber of Commerce, Colby, Kansas 67701. Letter writers should indicate that they will do no business in either city until the rattlesnake roundup ceases to exist in its present form and the rattlesnake hunting law is eliminated.

I thank you in advance for any help you can offer. Although such a boycott may seem to have little economic impact, this part of western Kansas is quite economically depressed at this time (this is the reason folks in Sharon Springs decided to organize a roundup) and every penny spent there is important. The threatoflosing a...ny income may have a significR.Tlt impact in getting rid of this odious situation in Kansas. If anyone wishes further information about this roundup and law, please have them contact me at: Department of Herpetology, Sedgwick County Zoo, 5555 Zoo Boulevard, Wichita, Kansas 67212. Please feel free to reprint this letter and the enclosed editorial from the Kansas Herpetological Newsletter (#92, May 1993).

In addition, I am enclosing camera-ready copy of an announcement of a new publication of the Kansas Herpetological Society. We would appreciate it if you could include this announcement in your society newsletter.

Sincerely, , -1/ I <--;--""'( /GLvJ,j' / Eric M Rundquist

MHS NE~ISLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 11

In all of the various sections, William Brown has condensed the most current information on each particular subject into a neat, reader friendly summarization. The ,,,mount of information packed into the individual sections is most impressive, as all topics are covered quite thoroughly. Each of the sections also include brief citations of any research publications etc. related to that topic. These references are fully citied later in the extensive and easily used bibliography. Among the most enlightening sections are those dealing with thr-eats to the continu€?d sur'vival of timber rat.tl.,snakes, the recovery potential of the species, and management stratagies.

Rounding out the book ar., sixt.,.,n color photographs illustrating the various color phases of Crotalus horridus found throughout the rang., of this speci.,s. All the photos are of excell.,nt quality and include the work of such well known herpetologists as Tom Johnson, Tom Tyning, Joe Collins, and Robert Zappalorti. Included among these sixteen photos are two beautiful photographs taken by Minnesota Hi?rpetological Soci.et.y member Barney Oldfield.

A source of particular gratification is the prominence of the Minnesota H.,rp€?tological Society, bot.h collecti.vely and individually, in this publication. Besides the abov., mentioned phot.ographs, the timber- rattl.esnake resean:h of f.,l.low 1'1HS m.,mbers Dan I<~,yler- and Barney Oldfield is cit.i.,d several times, as is John Moriarty for his work in developing signs used at timber rattlesnake sites_ Eric Thiss's monet.ary contribution toward the publication of this t.itle cannot go unmemt.ioned. In addition to these four individuals, the MHS as a whole also contributed funding and is listed along with the other contributors on the publicat.ion's back cover. All the MHS membership should be proud of the fact that our society is in the fc)refF'ont o'f c:onsf?t-vat.ion e'ffDy·ts ·FDr this s;pecies ..

All in all the SSAR and William S. Brown are to be highly commended for the excellent job done on this book~ The llsefulness of this publication, especially from a conservation standpoint, cannot be Qven"sti m,at.ed. I personal 1 y feel t.hat other spec i es coul d benef i t from pUblicat.ions of this type, and hopefully more will be forthcofniny" This title shoul~ serve as a (nodel, not only for other herp publications, but for those of other endange,-ed species as v,,~ll.

One last thing~ the price is right too! You can pick up a copy at the MHS sales annex during the monthly meetings for about $8.00 or order di. rt?ct for $ 10 cOO post.pai d from: EE~r·pent· 5 Tal E NatuF' al Hi stC)I'·Y Books and 8upplies~ 464 Second street, Excelsior, NN 55331 ... 612 470~5008~ I'd hurry though, as I'Hl sure that this 0118 will be a best seller.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 10

BOOK REVIEW: BIOLOGY, STATUS, AND MANAGEMENT OF THE TIMBER RATTLESNAKE (CROTALUS HORRIDUS): A GUIDE FOR CONSERVATION by WILLIAM S. BROWN. Herpetological Circular No. 22, the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles 1993. Softcover. 78 pages.

From the time I first heard rumors of the publication of this irlstallment in the SSAR's HerpB Circular series, I lookeci forward to the day I could get my hands on a copy. Having just read it for the second time, it is evident that this publication was well worth tt18 wait. Everything from the front cover to the last page is excellent and even the price is right. The only problem I have with the publication is where to begin praising it.

Since it's sometioles best to start at the beginning, let's start with the front cover. Besides the usual title, author, etc. the cover features the first of two beautiful and skillfully rendered black and white drawings of timber rattlesnakes. The cover illustration, by Deerfield, Illinois resident Don Wheeler, depicts a rattler looping behind and on top of a rock, against a background of bare trees and a foreground of -fallerl leayes~ Dr-awn as if being viewed from eyelevel, the snake itself with it's tail held foremost, rattle raised, and the tlead poised in space above, tongue extended, gives the picture an appearance of action and alertness~ Don's ability to convey the impre!:ision of life and mobilty to his subjects is part.icularly evident in this piece.

The Frontispiece, by John Lokke of Omaha, Nebraska, illustrates the timber rattlesna'ce from a somewhat different perspective~ Viewed from above, the drawing of a compactly coiled snake on a bed of dried leaves superbly illustrates the alert, but patient stillness this species is capable of. This is yet another example of Mr. Lokke's talent in depicting reptiles with pen and paper. Both of these drawings would be a fine addition to any herpetologist's art coIl E?C1: i on ~

The contents of the book are equally impressive. Author William S. Brown has produced a valuable alld easily used reference to almost any aspect of the natural history and conser'vation of Crotalll5 hOFridtlS tt,rollghlJlJt it's range. The information is organized into main catagories such as; Distribution, Habitat, Ecology, Marlagement Procedures, etc. Many of these chapters are 'FlJrttler divided into smaller sections, each covering aspects pertinellt to the main topic. For instarlce, the section entitled Hat)itat in(:lucies the subtitles; Den 1 Summer- Habi tat <: Transj t.:-nt HEibi tat ~ and Habj tat in Northeast.F!t-n r..!E~~·J York. Thi~:} makt::.:: i.t e;,~trefliely E~asy to lDCa1:E? t'3.ny infot-mation on any of these topics whenever it's desil~ed.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 9

Minnesota Herpetological Society Annual Picnic

July '17th, '1993 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Islands of Peace Park Anoka County Park, Fridley

Bring your own meat, bread, drink and a item to share. MHS will provide charcoal, condiments, plates, napkins and silverware.

Don't forget to bring your shelled friends for the afternoon "Turtle Races".

CHAI!I.ES ST.

For the early riser, a continental breakfast of rolls and champagne will be served.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMaE~ 6 Page 8

HFYI Herpetological For Your Information

(HFYI is a listing of herp related information, products, trips and expeditions, classes and other items for herp enthusiasts.)

EXPEDITIONS

Join a sea turtle conservation team working on the beautiful tropical beaches of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, or Mexico. the Sea Turtle Restoration Project is sponsoring expeditions as part of the continuing efforts to save these endangered animals. No expertise or experience is required to volunteer, you will be taught what you need to know to contribute. Volunteers learn about sea turtle biology and conservation, participate in research projects and help scientists in their studies. Trips range around $1,100. Contact Kathy Nielsen, Earth Island Institute, 300 Broadway, Suite 28, San Francisco, CA 94133. 415-788-3666 or 1-800-859-SAVE.

Volunteers needed for sea turtle research. 1993 Green Turtle Research Project, Green Turtle Research Station, Tortuguero, Costa Rica. 10 or 17 day programs depart weekly, June 25 to August 6. Cost from Miami: 10 day - $1885 or 17 day -$2115. Co-sponsored by The Caribbean Conservation Corporation and The Massachusetts Audubon Society. Natural History Travel, Lincoln, MA 01773. Call 1-800-289-9504 or 1-617-259-9500 for a brochure. A donation of $50 will be made to the organization that advised you of this program.

1993 Herpetological Mini-Expeditions are hassle free packaged trips to exotic places. The next nine day Mini-Expedition is to Costa Rica with Roy Pinney as guide, will leave New York on Sat. June 19th 1993. Depending on the size of the group, the complete package costs approx. $1800. The trip will visit Selva Verde (Dendrobatids), Tortuegera (marine turtles), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (here will try to find the golden toad, Bufo periglenes). Other trips include Africa, Jamaica, and India. Contact: Mini-Expeditions, 325 W. 45 Street #516, New York, NY 10036. (212) 246-1349.

CLASSES

The University of Minnesota's summer Session for 1993 is including a field herpetology course taught by Jeff Lang entitled "Ecology of Amphibians and Reptiles". Classes will be held 2 days a week (wed/sat) over a 3 week period starting July 22nd at the Lake Itasca Biological Station in Itasca State Park. Tuition is $77.00 per credit and the class is worth 3 credits. Class size is limited so register early. For more info call the U of M Summer Session office at (612) 624-3555 or John Levell at (612) 374-5422.

NEW PRODUCTS

New Reptile information newspaper called REPTCYCLER by experienced herpetologists and educators, subscription is $12.00 and comes out quarterly. Write: REPTCYCLER, P.O. Box 8187, La Crescenta, CA 91224-8187 or fax (818) 957-7784. MHS will be looking into getting this for the library on a newsletter exchange basis.

The 0ph1dian Herpetological Network is a computer bulletin board for herp en~nij"~~'~Q, 300-2400 BPS, 24 hours, 8+N+1 Phone (602) 468-9860.

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 7

Upcoming Herpetological Events is a listing of herp relate conferences, symposiums, shows, lectures, classes and local hands on events.

Quick View

June & July '93 Aug. & sept. '93 Oct. thru Dec. '93

* American Cichlid *FI Breeders Expo *Midwest Herp Conference convention 7/16-18th 8/13-15 Iowa Herp Soc.

*Hands on Henn Cty Des Moines 10/22-24 *Incredible Festival Humane Soc. 8/14

in mound 7/24 *St. Louis Expo 8/29 *MHS Holiday Party *Mid Atlantic Show, 12/4

*MHS Picnic 7/17 Baltimore 9/25-26 *Ren Fest 8/21-9/25

CONFERENCES & SYMPOSIUMS

The annual Midwestern Herpetological Conference sponsored by the Iowa Herp Soc, will be held in Des Moines, Iowa on October 22 - 24 at the Shereton Inn. Room Reservations call (515) 278-5575. Info can be receive from Allen Anderson, President of Iowa HSat (515) 981-0402 or fax to sarne number Mon-Fri 8arn-5pm. Tentative Speakers: Dr. Richard S. Funk, DVM, Dr. Dick Ross, MD, Don Perschau, Ia Herp Soc, and private breeders; Eugene Bessette, John McGrath, Al & Cindy Baldogo, and Torn Weidner.

The American Cichlid Association will be holding their annual convention at the Thunderbird Hotel in Bloomington, July 16th - 18th, sponsored by the Minnesota Aquarium Society. For more info write: Mike Evans, P.O. Box 45, Northwood IA 50459, or contact the Minnesota Aquarium Society. (1 think it's in the book)

EXPOS & SHOWS

The Mid Atlantic Reptile Show, sponsored by the Maryland Herp Soc is on Sept. 25 and 26th in Baltimore. Info is in the April MHS Newsletter.

1st annual St. Louis Reptile Breeders Expo and Sale is Sun. Aug 29th at the Kirkwood Community Center. Call (314).892-6605 or (314) 845-2038

1993 National Breeders Expo, Orlando FL at the Twin Towers Hotel, sponsored by the Central FL Herp Soc, August 13-15. Pre-registration is $10 send to: Central FL Herp Soc, P.O. Box 3277 Winter Haven, FL 33885. Call (813) 294-2235 for info and 1-800-327-2110 for hotel reservations.

MHS EVENTS

The annual MHS picinic will be held on July 17th at the Islands of Peace Park in Anoka. Further details next month. Hands on: July 24th: the Incredible Festival in Mound

Aug 14th: Hennepin County Humane Society in Golden Valley Rennaisance Festival is also almost upon us. Contact Bill Moss 488-1383, for MHS hands on events and Renn Fest.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 6

those of us who wanted to give opinions as to the status of herps in the state.

On a quite interesting ending note, questions were fielded by both Chuck and Rick by MRS members. Many members in the audience became involved and through this we learned more about the Endangered Species Act, the permit system (which are only given out to help recovery or to educate) and many other quite pertinant topics. [see, asking questions is important kids!]

Big thanks to both Rich and Chuck for an informative and entertaing evening.

[Later in this issue is more information supplied by the Fish an Wildlife Service. They also supplied us with info on CITIES and permit regualations • . If you would like a copy of this info please contact me, Michele, at 377-8637, and I can mail them or bring to the next meeting.]

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MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 5

Spea.ker Rev-ie_ by Drew Newman

May: Andrew Keller and Kate Slavens

MRS was very priveldged this month to present two excellent speakers. Both gave seperate and quite informative talks. The evenings first speaker was Andrew Keller who enlightened up about the sea turtle research he has done in Costa Rica.

Sea turtles are animals who spend sometimes years at sea only returning to land for nesting. The leatherback turtles which Mr. Keller has studied, on the average lay 80 to 100 eggs between February and May. While most sea turtles are considered to be tropical animals, leatherbacks are considered temparate which allow them to live in cooler waters. These turtles use the same nest year after year though no one has solved the mystery of how they find their way back.

One of the main components of the leatherback's diet is the jellyfish. An unfortunate by product of this is that many turtles die after injesting plastic garbage which is mistaken for jellyfish. Poaching is still a major problem even though these turtles are protected by C.I.T.I.E.S.

For our second talk of the evening we had Kate Slavens who provided us with a photo essay of her recent trip to Costa Rica. Through her slides, Kate took us on a tour of the many areas she visited. Many different animals were featured and there were some stunning photography of dendrobatid frogs. Of particualar interest was how she explained of going to the ocean to find sea snakes basking on the waves.

Thanks to both Andrew and Kate for their enlightening programs.

June: Chuck Kjos; US Fish and Wildlife Service Rich Baker; MN DNR

Many of us involved in herpetoculture often hear about laws and regulations in regard to many of the animals we keep. In addition, a growing number of the animals we are concerned about are being afforded special protection in the wild state. When the reptile enthusiast looks at all the local, state, national and international statutes it can be quite confusing. At the June meeting we were priledged to have two excellent authorities to help us better understand these often ambiguous laws.

Chuck Kjos began his presentation telling us about candidate herps at this time: mudpuppies, mud turtles and massasgas, are all candidates for protection. The DNR keeps a list of threatened, concerned and endangered reptiles and amphibians. Ten years ago this list was erected and it has not been modified since. [very important point there] The purpose of this list is to protect species in greatest danger of extinction. Another activity of the DNR is to review development projects and what impact the would have on our native herp fauna.

When Rich Baker spoke he was specific in what we as individuals and as a society can do. Sone activitis are as follow: 1) Give info on species, 2) review public notices (which can be supplied on request), 3) contact Rich or Chuck for volunteer work. Forms were also made available at the meeting for

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 4

Upcoming MHS Meeting High1ights

July Program: 1993 International Herpetological Symposium Review.

Speakers: Gloria Anton, Dan Bergquist, Jeff LeClere, Drew Newman, Bill Moss, Michele Stillinger, and Eric Thiss.

Where: Borlaug Hall, University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus When: 7:00 pm Friday, July 9, 1993

July has traditionally been the month when MHS members attending the annual International Herpetological Symposium present brief recaps of interesting talks for the rest of us. Being somewhat of a tradionalist myself, I can see no reason to break this old habit. As always, the choice of topics is left entirely to the discretion of each reviewer. With the variety of interests present among the above members we can expect a wide range of herpetological topics to be covered.

The annual IHS wrapup has always been a great favorite of MHS members and something of interest to everyone is always presented. Don't miss it.

JPL

[ This years topics are twice as better as last year, there will be people from allover the world speaking and I'm sure we'll have some new and interesting info to share! -ed J

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Aug - Michael J. Massie: Reptile Nutrition Sept - John Meltzer: Breeding Western Hognose

*** Special note, Chuck Kjos and Rich Baker donated back their speaker fees to MRS. Thanks Guys! ***

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 3

MHS Business

--- Special Notice: The next general meeting will be held on July 9th because of the holiday weekend. ---

Board Meeting

Attending: Glen Jacobsen, John Levell, Connie Levell, Drew Newman, Marilyn Brooks, Michele Stillinger, Jeff LeClere, Bill Moss, Sara Richard, Randy Blasus, Hans Paulson, and Dan Bergquist.

The new t-shirts have been a great success, adoption proceedures are still being evaluated, Sara thinks the vet school students might be interested in doing quick exams on adoption animals (fecals, etc) before they are adopted out.

Vice Presidents report: Tentative schedule of speakers: (anyone interested in giving a presentation can contact John Levell.) July - IHS wrapup

Adoptions Unoffically, I remember two adoptors: Mike Massie: common musk turtle John Meltzer: green iguana I'll find the rest out for next month. If anyone would like to help on the adoption contact Glen Jacobsen.

Raffle

Aug - Mike Massie Sept - John Meltzer Oct - open

Nov - open

committee for the next meeting

Winners: Jennifer LeClere, Bill Walton, Lukas Kroiss, Becky Heller, Cindy Hoeye, Cynthia Thomas. Thanks to ever one who purchased tickets.! Donors: John Levell, Terry Scheiber, Vence and Nanette Jimerson, and Bill Moss.

Refreshments There were no refreshments at June's meeting, if anyone is interested in bringin a treat for everyone to share contact Nanette Jimerson at 869-8547.

*** A very special thanks to the Rea family for the ice cream sandwiches they brought to the May meeting. The Rea's have almost been the sole supplier of our treats at the meetings and we all appreciate it!! *** May Board Meeting

At the May board meeting some hands on issues were addressed: Hans has been getting together some new pictures or the info board if anyone would like to donate some they can contact him, Bill will be making a banner for our photo opportunities, MHS sent $500 in support of John Moriarty and Barney Oldfield's book, Dactylus will be purchased for the library.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 2

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Table of Contents From the Editor

MRS Businessting highlights

Upcoming Meeting Highlights

Speaker Reviews

Upcoming Herp Events

HFYI

Book Review

Editorial Kansas Herp Soc

US Fish & Wildlife facts

IHS journal update

Classified ads

MHS Classified ads

2

3

4

6

7

9

11

13

17

18

19

Just to let you all know that I'm off to the IHS in Florida! Fun in the Sun. I'll get back to business next month, but for this month this is a slapped together newsletter. If you didn't notice in the past, this computer keyboard is awful! HELP!! If you are a computer expert or know how to get a good deal on one let me know! For now, just to clear up any confusion while reading this, the "d" sticks, the "f" sticks, and the shift button sticks. So you'll have to take your best shot at understanding this if I missed a letter somewhere.

Have a great July 4th weekend! Remember, general meeting is the following friday.

*** Please send all inquiries, ads, and articles directly to the editor *** MRS Editor

524 Indiana Ave. N Golden Valley, MN 55422

Next newsletter deadline: July 9, 1993

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIII NUMBER 6 Page 1

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CLASSIFIED AD INSTRUCTIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members. Ads for venomous species, illegal species, or sick animals will not be run. MRS 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 the date of the general meeting. Send all newsletter items to: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Attn: Newsletter Editor, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104.

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