Vol. 12 (1992), No. 9

NEWSLETTER OF THE .'

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL路 SOCIETY

SEPTEMBER 1992 BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL mSTORY

VOLUME XII 10 CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST

NUMBER 9 MINNAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

Do you ever have a question about one of your herp 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 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 Glen (Jake) Jacobsen Vence Jimerson

757-8268 869-8547

Lizards NancyHaig Bill Moss

938-8555 263-7880

Del Jones John Meltzer

Amphibians 789-4637 488-1383

Terrestrial turtles and tortoises John Moriarty AnnPorwoll

Other Snakes

647-1334 489-7853

John Meltzer Greg Kvanbek

263-7880 533-7723

Aquatic Turtles Michele Stilinger Dennis Daly

588-4613 633-8370

SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

(612) 347-3141

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM (LOCAL) (OUT OF STATE)

(612) 221-2113 1-(800) 222-1222

ŠCopyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. Th~ contents of this newsletter may be r~produced for inclusion in the newsletters of other herpetological societies provided that the materialls reproduced without change and proper credits are given to the MRS Newsletter, citing volume number and date.

INNESOTA,

~

'ERPETOLOGICAL ".

MHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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 an 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.

PRESIDENT Glen Jacobsen VICE-PRESIDENT Bill Moss

OCIETY TABLE OF CONTENTS

Next meeting update

2

Sept. meeting summary

3

Sept. Board meeting

4

MHS misc.

6

Article: Newsletter Review

8

Article: Reptile 10 Classification Book Review: Monitors

13

Neonate Page

16

Classified

17

(612) 757-8268 (612) 488-1383

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY (612) 374-5422 Connie Delles 路 CALANDER OF EVENTS RECORDING SECRETARY Michele Stillinger (612) 588-4613 TREASURER John Levell

(612) 374-5422

NEWSLETTER EDITOR Julie Cherveny

(612) 774-6786

Sept. 19

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Randy Blasus

(612) 688-7709

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Dennis Daly

(612) 633-8370

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Nancy Haig

(612) 789-4637

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Greg Kvanbek

(612) 533-7723

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT John Meltzer (612) 263-7880

IvIHS NEWSLETIER

VOLUME XII

Aug. 15 - Sept. 27 Renaissance Festival

NUMBER 9

MHS annual picnic.

Oct. 11, 1992 Raptor Center, MN's Timber Rattlesnakes; w/live specimens; Barney Oldfield and Dan Keyler speaking.

Oct. 16th-18th,1992 Midwestern Herpetological Symposium, Brookfield, WI. November 14 & 15, 1992 Reptile and Amphibian Show and Sale, Bing Crosby Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar California.

PAGE 1

Next Meeting Date: Friday, October 2, 1992 Time: 7:00 PM

Place: Borlaug Hall St. Paul Campus U of M

PROGRAM: Selection of famous and not so famous herpetologists and naturalists, past and present.

SPEAKER: John Levell - Member of the MHS John Levell, the NEW treasurer of the MHS, will speak about the sometimes strange careers of some of the more interesting characters in the world herpetology.

Some of the featured personalities include K. P. Schmidt, Clifford Pope, E.D. Kope, among others.

Some living and some Local herpetologists will also be featured.

CRITTER OF THE MONTH: Your First Herp.

Reminder: Bring a proper container to display your herps.

UPCOMING MEETINGS November: ???

December: Pete Strimple January: Mike Mosman - Amphibians HELP A HAPLESS HERP A Texas Black Ratsnake and a Iguana went up for adoption at the September meeting. Anyone with animals to go up for adoption, should contact Glen Jacobsen at (612) 757-8268 prior to the meeting.

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

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SEPTEMBER SPEAKER REVIEW Michele Stillinger, MHS member was our guest speaker at the September meeting.

Earlier this year Michele had the opportunity to visit the Oklahoma City Zoo and was privileged enough to provided access to the curator and the behind the scenes of the Reptile House.

These experiences she shared with the MHS membership. Michele prefaced her talk with a bit of history on the building that is now the Reptile House.

Previous to that the building was referred to as the "Snake Pit". Rather than do a quick photo essay on all the herps in residence, Michele focused primarily on the Chameleons and Tropical Frogs.

In the Chameleon family Michele explained how all the animals were kept in naturalistic vivarium setups.

Of the Chameleons the Zoo so far has had success with breeding the Parson's, Jackson's, Flapneck's, Knsna Dwarf and a variety of others. She topped off that portion of her talk with an absolutely stunning photograph of a seven month old Oustaleti Chameleon with a newborn perched directly above it.

Michele then touched upon some of the serpents he was working with.

Particularly interesting was the beautiful color morphs of the Emerald Tree Boa. Next she moved onto the Tropical frogs.

The Zoo has so far bred the Dendrobates Azureus, the Dying Frog, and the Red-Eyed Tree Frog.

One of the strategies they use is to place an inverted buttercup with a lid attached inside the enclosures. A small door is cut, in which the frogs enter and lay eggs. After the eggs hatch on the lids (approximately seven days), the lids are then removed with the tadpoles.

They are then floated in individual trays in a filtered aquarium.

In about two months they metamorphose into tiny frogs.

Michele ended her talk with more stunning photography of a most photogenic subject ---- The Red-Eyed Tree Frog.

All of us in MHS should be thankful to Michele for all her preparation and hard work to bring us a very educational and visually stimulating evening.

REFRESHMENTS For September's meeting Toni Jesmer brought muffins and rolls.

THANKS TONI!!!

The Donation Frog received $15.03 in September.

If you'd like to help provide treats for a meeting please talk to Candy Ashbach or Nanette Jimerson at the meeting to find out about what's needed.

CRITTER OF THE MONTH The critter of the month was "Your South American Herp". critters and their keepers were:

The

Ted Meissner - Common Boa John Meltzer - Budgett's Frog Jeff LeClere and Theresa Kollander - Common Green Iguana Fred Bosman - Guyana Red-tail Boa

MHS NEWSLETfER VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 3

SEPTEMBER BOARD MEETING Called to order at 7:15 PM at Julie Cherveny's house.

Glen Jacobsen, Bill Moss, Marilyn Brooks, Michele Stillinger, Connie Delles, Greg Kvanbek, Randy Blasus, John Levell, Dennis Daly, Nancy Haig, Drew Newman, John Meltzer, Julie and Todd Cherveny were present.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT MHS will have a information table set up at the University of Minnesota St. Paul Student Center for Campus Kick-off on Tuesday, September 29th.

The time is from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Tables and chairs will be provided.

Please contact Glenn if you would like to help out.

VICE-PRESIDENT'S REPORT SPEAKER SCHEDULE

Oct: Nov: Dec:

Jan: Feb:

John Levell Famous Herpetologists Dan Keyler Venomous Snake Bite Pete Strimple General Meeting: Monitors of the world Holiday Banquet: Field research with the Green Anaconda Mike Mosman from the Wisc. DNR Amphibians White Snake Sale

TREASURER'S REPORT Total Income: $ 807.73 Total Expenses: $1441.41 Ending Balance: $2525.73 Rat sales have a been a great income source and we're hoping that the sales of poster and postcards will be too. MHS will now start selling basic cages in three standard sizes.

See add in classified.

MHS is a non profit organization and all income goes towards the expenses of newsletters, programs, speaker fees, Library books, and herp related causes such as research, conservation efforts and books. Therefore we are always looking for more sources of income.

Grants are one source we are interested in.

If anyone has any information on potential contributors or has any herp related research or project proposals please contact Marilyn Brooks.

SECRETARY'S REPORT Given and accepted.

MHS NEWSLEITER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 4

BOARD MEETING MINUTES CONT'D OLD BUSINESS

MHS will order more posters and postcards to sell at hands on programs. We are also looking into offering more t-shirt designs for sale at meetings and hands-on.

Motion made to purchase subscription to Captive Breeding magazine for the library. Motion passed, look for it in the library box at general meetings in the future.

Drew Newman presented to Bill a rough draft of a letter to veterinarians about our society. The letter was excellent and will be printed and sent along with brochure to area veterinarians.

The purpose is to inform them of the society, its goals and availability for information and animal placement.

NEW BUSINESS

Marilyn Brooks will be resigning as MHS Treasure and member John Levell accepted position.

John will take over all duties started in October.

Marilyn informed board of the new DNR state park theme for 1993.

The DNR will be using the Five Lined Skink on tags, t-shirts and mugs.

MEETING ADJOURNED: 10:30 PM

RAFFLE RESULTS

Thanks to Aqualand, Nature's Lens, John and Toni Jesmer, John Levell, Michele Stillinger, Candy Ashbach, Dennis Daly, Robert S. Ost and MHS for donating raffle items. The raffle took in $76.00, way to go! The winners are listed below: Dan Kallhof Kris Anton Pearl Cherveny Candy Ashbach Eric Hogendorf Brian Grussing Donna Calander Mike Hunter Julia Meltzer Marilyn Brooks Theresa Kollander

Ted Meissner Hans Paulson Rachel Hoppe Lauria Eliason John Gidmark Neal Aalton Robert S. Ost Nicholas Gidmark Brian Grussing Toni Jesmer Megan Strand

Thanks to all that purchased tickets.

Reminder: PLEASE print your name, because I have a hard time reading the names. Thank You.

MRS NEWSLETIER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGES

1992 STATE FAIR The 1992 State Fair Exhibit was reduced from last year due to the lack of new space.

The original exhibit had to be moved because of a safety concern due to the electrical panels behind the exhibit.

The 1992 State Exhibit consisted of Minnesota turtles.

They were located on the east end of the fish tanks.

The turtles were provided by Gary Ash (softshell and map turtle), Bell Museum (Blanding's turtle), John Moriarty (wood turtle), Dave Norman (painted turtle) and Springbrook Nature Center (snapping turtle).

Thank you to all that helped by supplying.

There were a number of inquiries on the absence of the snakes.

The DNR will find space for next year.

The exhibit will be at the west end of the fish exhibit.

THANKS A BUNDLE By Marilyn Brooks I may sometimes forget to say THANKS to you each month after Newsletter Folding, but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate your effort.

It may seem like you don't do that much, but each person keeps the Newsletter going down the line until it's bundled and ready for the Post Office.

Or maybe it is the great conversations that make you forget your "working".

I just want you to know your time and energy is noticed.

Thank you to the following people who put in the time in first half of this year: Jim Alred Randy Blasus Sally Brewer Fred Bosman Todd Cherveny Julie Cherveny Dennis Daly Connie, Chase and Brandon Delles Bruce Haig Nancy Haig Cindy Hardy Nina Katayama Greg Kvanbek Jeff, Bruce, Jennifer and Alayna LeClere John Levell Drew Newman Ann Porwoll Joe Rayl Jim, Karin, Siri and Josie Rea Lest we not forget the contribution of Delvin Jones for having labels printed, even under extreme circumstances.

Thank you.

HELP! ! ! !

The Minnesota Herpetological Society needs a volunteer to maintain the Nametag Box at the meetings.

It basically entails removing expired nametags, putting new tags in badges, sorting and helping people find nametags.

It doesn't require a lot time, just a couple of minutes before and after the meeting.

If you are interested, please contact one of the Board members.

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 6

SPECIAL THANKS The Minnesota Herpetological Society would like to give a special THANKS!! to those who are contributing and sustaining members.

Those people are: Ann Porwoll David Hoppe Dan Keyler John Moriarty Terry Scheiber R. Scott Cords Brenda Diederichs Jeff Bushman Rachel Beise Tropic Waters Bill Moss

Jim Mead Frank L. Slavens Bruce and Nancy Haig John and Ruth Meltzer Tropical Concepts Glen M. Jacobsen James H. Rea and family Westwood Hills Nature Center Todd and Julie Cherveny John Simon

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!!

EXTRA! !, EXTRA!!!

For those of you who were unable to make August's meeting, we were informed that Marilyn Brooks has to resign as Treasurer because of circumstances beyond her control, but she will continue to co-ordinate the Newsletter folding.

She will be missed at the Board Meetings. Also, her time and efforts will not be forgotten, Thank you!! .

If you are now wondering, "Who will be taking over as Treasurer?", John Levell has generously volunteered his time to become the NEW Treasurer for the Minnesota Herpetological Society.

This will take effect in October.

To John, a special THANKS!!!

BUY DUCK STAMPS, THEY HELP HERPS By John Moriarty The Federal Waterfowl and Conservation Stamps, "The Duck Stamp" is required by all duck hunters, Duck Stamps should also be purchased by all persons interested in wetlands. All funds from the Duck Stamps is used for land acquisition and management on National Wildlife Refuges.

Duck Stamps are available from any Post Office.

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 7

NEWSLETTER REVIEW COMPILED BY DONNA CALANDER ARKIType (British Columbia): Summer 1992 issue.

In memory of Larry Moor, the past president.

The Desert Monitor (Arizona): Volume 22, No.3 August-September 1992 pp. 17 - 2 0 Article on the Mexican Long-Nosed Snake.

Behind BAARS (Bay Area, CAl: Volume XV, No.8 August 1992 A collection of tips from a workshop on turtles, lizards, baby garter snakes and shedding snakes.

ATTN APT DWELLERS: how to have a pond on your balcony.

The Forked Tongue (Cincinnati): Volume 17(8) August 1992 pp. 3-4 article on captive maintenance of the Sudan Plated Lizard.

Idaho Herp News: Volume 5, No.3 July/August 1992 pp. 7-11 article on how to get Royal Pythons (Ball Pythons) to eat.

Kansas Herp Society: Number 89 August 1992 pp. 7-9 Story on the Irula and their relationship with snakes.

Maryland Herp Society: Volume 28, No.2 June 30, 1992 : four very technical articles.

Northern Calif. Herp Society: Volume 11, Number 6 pp. 3-5 : Review of the best products for sterilizing cages, by a vet.

Notes from NOAH (Northern Ohio): Volume XIX, No. 11 August 26, 1992 pp. 3-4 I How wood turtles gather earthworms.

Reptile and Amphibian magazine: September/October 1992 Articles on Amazon & Cook's Tree boas; The Aquatic Caecilians; Invertebrate Predation of Reptiles; The Matamata; Salamander Life Cycles; Fences Lizards.

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

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PAGE 8

NEWSLETTER REVIEW CONTINUED Sonoran Herpetologist: Volume 5, No.8 August 5, 1992 pp. 8-9 article on (ready?)

"Molecularphysiopharmacozootoxico1ogy," otherwise known as how snake venom works.

This is an edited version of a presentation made to the Tucson Herp Society.

Tortuga Gazette (CA): Volume 28, No.8 August 1992 pp. 76-81 Four stories of chelonians that made the news.

VaraNews: Volume 2, No. 4 August 4, 1992 Asians kill water monitors for a variety of uses; their uses are listed. article on the reproductive behavior of the Nile Monitor Lizard.

Vivarium: Volume 4, No.1 July/August 1992 Articles on traumatic shell repair of chelonians; captive management of the Flying Dragon nesting habits of the Northern Pinesnake; Giant vipers of Africa; the importance of amateurs to Herpetology.

Wisc. Herp Society: Summer 1992 --picture of a giant leaf tail gecko on cover. article on garter snakes. solving a 130 year mystery-finding a Gray's monitor in the Philippines.

MHS NEWSLETIER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 9

REPTILE CLASSIFICATION PART ONE: INTRODUCTION BY JOHN P. LEVELL At the August 7th (1992) meeting of the Minnesota Herpetological Society, we were fortunate to have as our guest speaker, Jon Kramer of the Potomac Museum Group.

The topic of Jon's talk was the Ancient Age of Reptiles.

As can be expected the presentation was most interesting, covering many various different types of reptiles that existed in the past.

Naturally Dinosaurs figured prominently in this program.

During the Q&A session following the program, a question was raised regarding the relationship of Dinosaurs to other reptile groups.

It was the opinion our speaker, that Dinosaurs are not reptiles, but rather be placed in the class of Aves (birds).

To support this viewpoint, Jon pointed out some of the unique features that set Dinosaurs apart from the other reptile orders.

While this theory is quite interesting, and while I don't necessarily disagree with it, what wasn't pointed out (thru no fault of Jon's) is the fact that uniqueness is not all that unusual in the class of . Reptilia. A few reptile orders other than the Dinosaurs, have produced forms unlike any other reptile group, and one order, Testudinata (the turtles), has accomplished a feat totally unique among any vertebrate group before or since.

We will explore these subjects more later.

This in turn led to a discussion of the classification of the reptiles in general.

Different opinions were presented on this subject, among them the artificial or vague nature of the system used to classify reptiles.

Here I feel I must point out that the term Dinosaur, or more properly Dinosauria, is as artificial as any, actually encompassing two distinct reptilian orders.

During the course of this discussion it became apparent that some misunderstanding of the classification systems exists.

With these thoughts in mind I thought it might be of interest to some readers to see what the current standard system of reptile classification looks like.

I also feel it may be of interest to present the basics of classification and the reasons why the system is organized the way it is.

While on the subject we may as well explore the various orders or reptiles, both living and extinct.

Due to the length of this subject it will have to be presented in several parts.

In this, part one, we will look at basic classification.

Future installments of this series will cover reptile classification and the individual reptilian orders more fully.

The purpose of this series of articles is to present a starting point, a place to begin looking at the broad picture of the relationships of the one reptile group to another and to the interpretation of that picture.

Remember that none of this is "set in stone" and that it isn't a condemnation of any of Jon Kramer's views.

Disagreements among authorities of any subject are normal, healthy, and to be expected.

It is in this way that our store of knowledge is increased.

Before going further we should realize that all classification systems are somewhat artificial.

They are designed for the use of scientists to aid in the study of particular groups, and their relationships to other groups.

What one authority accepts, another

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 10

The Minnesota Herpetological Society is asking your help in getting together a list of possible projects. These can be existing projects or new ideas. We are able to apply for Grants from Corporations and Government Agencies to fund such projects.

Projects need to show benefit to Members of MHS, to the General Public or to Reptiles and Amphibians. Projects might' be to research an animal, to work out a needed protection of an animal, to do a captive breeding and release, to expand a present MHS project, to help with someone else's existing project, to copy another organization's successful program, or others.

If you have an idea, we would like to hear it. The back side of this page is a form to put your idea in writing and mail to us. Please fill in as much as possible, the more information we have the better to review the project.

It is not necessary to put your name and number, but we would like you to, as we can then 'call to clarify if we have any questions.

We have also provided a space for you to express any other questions, comments, or ideas you have for the Society. We want to hear from the members that make up MHS about ways to improve our Organization.

Please return this form by the middle of November, but suggestions (or forms) will be accepted at any time. All you need to do is fold this letter at the two lines, leaving the bottom showing. Please a stamp on the "X" and drop in the mail. We can not express how much your input will

help us in expanding what we can accomplish to help reptiles and amphibians. _______________ _

x Minnesota Herpetological Society 10 Church Street South East Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104

M S PR JE T SUGGESTIONS Name (Optional): _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Phone (Optional): _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ General Description of Project:

Detailed Description of Project:

Benefit to MHS and Herps:

Estimated Cost: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Other COtnments or Suggestion to MHS:

Thank you for your continuing support of The Minnesota Herpetological Society and your commitment to Reptiles and Amphibians.

may not. Also since our knowledge of any group is far from complete and since our new fossils of extinct forms are being discovered all the time, the system is in a state of constant flux.

This inevitably leads to certain species or entire genera being shifted back and forth from one group to another. While this may sometimes prove confusing, we have to admit that some method of organizing groups must exist if any understanding of the relationship of one species or genus to another and their evolutionary history is ever to be achieved.

The current method to classify organisms is based on the system created by Carl Linnaeus in his work "Systema Naturae" 1758.

In this classification system, organisms are arranged in a series of categories, each category less inclusive than the category preceding it.

In this way kingdom is divided into phyla, phylum into classes, class into orders, order into families, family into genera, and genus into species.

In addition several other divisions have been created such as subspecies, supraorder etc.

Thus a fairly complete classification of an animal we should all be familiar with, the corn snake, would look like this; Kingdom: Phylum: Subphylum: Class: Subclass: Order: Suborder: Family: Subfamily: Genus: Species: Subspecies:

Animal Chordata Vertabrata Reptilia Lepidosauria Squamata Serpentes Colubridae Colubridae Elaphe Elaphe guttata Elaphe guttata guttata

As can be seen above each category becomes less inclusive as we progress down the list, so that when the bottom of the list is reacned we are dealing with one particular animal.

The system also lets us organize the various groups into some semblance of order based upon their similarities or differences.

For example it can be shown that the subspecies Elaphe guttata guttata would be more closely related to the subspecies Elaphe guttata emoryi (Great Plains Rats Snake) than it would to the species Elaphe obsoleta (Black Rat Snake).

It can also be shown that E. g. guttata and E. o. obsoleta are more closely related to each other than either would be to a species from any other genus, and so on up the list.

This can probably best be illustrated by classifying two species from different genera, in this case we'll use the corn snake and another common species, the eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula getula).

That classification might look like this; Class: Order: Suborder: Family: Genus: Species: Subspecies:

Reptilia Squamata Serpentes Colubridae a).

Elaphe guttata guttata

MRS NEWSLETIER VOLUME XII

NUMBER 8

b) .

Lampropeltis getula getula

PAGE 11

By examining the above simplified classification, we can see that both species are reptiles, that they both belong to the order Squamata, suborder Serpentes, and family Colubridae.

After that they are different enough from one another to be classified in different genera. We can also see that both belong to species with more than one recognized form, because of their subspecific designations.

From here it can easily be imagined how entire genealogies can be built up by the addition of more information into individual categories.

This will become more evident as we go along.

One last thing to point out is that the basic unit of this classification system is the species category.

The category subspecies being merely a sub-division of species.

In other words, while a family may contain several distinct genera, and a genus several distinct species, the species category is an entity onto it~elf.

The only way it can be broken own further is by being sub-divided itself.

For example; Genus: Elaphe Species: guttata Subspecies: guttata (Corn Snake) emoryi (Great Plains Rat Snake)

vulpina vulpina (Western Fox Snake) gloydi (Eastern Fox Snake)

As can be seen both guttata and vulpina have two recognized forms, different yet still related enough to be conside~ed the same species. Subspecies can freely interbreed with other members of their species in nature. Most species do not freely interbreed with other species under natural conditions.

Other than a few simple rules (which we can cover later), that about covers the basics of animal classification. Hopefully, I've succeeded in showing that the current classification system, de~pite it's faults, is still useful.

I don't think much progress in our understanding of the compl~x relationships of organisms and their evolution, can be made without it.

In part two of this arti~le, we will look at the classification of reptiles more closely.

Part Two will also include a checklist of the reptilian orders, both living and extinct, with brief summaries of each.

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

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BOOK REVIEW

By Drew Newman Title:

The Care and Maintenance of Savannah Monitors and Other Popular Monitor Species.

Author: Michael Balasi Publisher: Advanced Vivarium Systems, Lakeside CA 1992 Anyone who has ever kept a monitor species knows quite well the scarcity of literature on husbandry. Many general herp books would devote a few pages to the genus Varanus, but not divulge much more than some statistics on range and distribution.

I've even encountered a few books that would omit the animals entirely, on the premise that they were inappropriate for the private collection.

So earlier this year, I welcomed with great anticipation this latest edition to The Herpetocultural Library.

If one is a varanophile, a simple glance at the bibliography will tell you this innocuous looking book is far removed from "Lizards as a New Pet" fare that is so common among herp literature.

The book is divided into eleven chapters and a bibliography.

In the first two chapters the delves into the current C.I.T.E.S. status of Varanidae and give some background on distribution.

He also imparts a little known fact that V. olivaceus is an omnivore.

With chapter three he focuses on particular information regarding the Savannah monitor. He describes the four subspecies, giving their ranges.

In the section on sexing, I have to take exception to his advice on using saline injections as it is presented in this book.

I do not doubt that this can be a reliable indicator, but it frightens me that this piece of information will reach a majority of people, inept at such a practice.

If his comments on this were prefaced with getting assistance with a herp vet or even someone experienced in subcutaneous injections on herps, I would feel more comfortable.

In discussing regulations in responsible Savannah monitor ownership, the author takes time to come forth with some very pertinent and timely ethical issues, which if adhered to, will benefit all of us involved in herpetoculture (this seems to be inherent in the other publications of The Herpetocultural Library---a trend that needs to be continued).

In "Selecting a Savannah Monitor" he gives an overview of the common protocol used to select a healthy animal.

It may be redundant for those of us who have been around herps for a while, but information like this, is imperative for the beginner.

In the chapter on housing and general maintenance, cage size an escape are discussed thoroughly. Adult monitors are not animals which can comfortably be housed in aquaria with a screen top and most often custom cages need to be constructed. Dog kennels are mentioned (specifically modified) as an option for larger animals.

(This reviewer has corresponded with people, who claim great success wi th using such an enclosure)., Two tips such as not using cedar as a bedding and never using a disinfectant compound such as Lysol, could pay for this book many times over in saved animals for someone who is not aware of the toxic properties of these products.

PAGE 13 MHS NEWSLETIER VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

When discussing feeding of Savannah monitors he gives amounts and frequency by size of animal which is a very helpful criteria.

It is also advised that if egg and chicken are to be offered, they should be cooked.

Under Savannah monitor personalities it is outlined very specifically that monitors can be formidable adversaries and should be handled with care. A severe bite, lash of the tail, or defecation shower are all possibilities when attempting to handle an angry or frightened animal.

When addressing diseases and disorders it is refreshing to see that the author has included a list of herp medical texts, by the likes of Ross, Frye, and others. He also mentions the use of carbaryl (seven) for ticks and mites, which I haven't seen advocated elsewhere.

(His reference to the tick as "an obnoxious arachnid" gave me a good chuckle).

In the section on breeding a hypothetical model is presented with an emphasis that it may need much revision.

Due to importation in large numbers the private sector has not embraced propagation of Varanids with the fervor that it has in some other reptile species.

The author rightfully encourages us to develop a methodology that can lead to more frequent captive birth of this wonderful family of lizards.

The last chapter notes on other species should be of interests to those of us who have "graduated" to other monitors or at least maintained some of them in our collections.

The information on V. salva~dorii is particularly interesting since this animal has recently been turning up on price lists and is rumored to be approaching appendix one status.

This book has thirty black and white photographs which all seem original.

The only photograph which I feel could have been omitted is the one on the bottom of page six. Holding an adult monitor, no matter how tame, close to one's face could lead to an awful accident.

Can anyone imagine something more horrible than getting bit in the face by a large lizard.

Overall this is an exceptional book.

The information contained within is a type of data one would expect to find in a book, costing ten times as much and sandwiched between hundreds of glossy photographs.

In closing I would like to reprint the address to Varanix, as it was included in the above mentioned text. Anyone with any degree of interest in monitors can benefit greatly from this organizations bi-monthly newsletter.

For more information contact: Greg Naclerio C.O. Varanix 8726D south Sepulveda Blvd. #243 Los Angeles, CA ~0045 Phone (310) 7 6-8-~8669

MRS NEWSLETIER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 14

by Michele Stillinger FROGTOWN GOES FROGGY

Residents, schools, churches and even businesses will try to leap into the Guinness Book of World records on Sept. 26th.

St. Paul's Frogtown will be holding its Frogtown Festival complete with a Leap-O-Rama contest. Teams of two will attempt to leapfrog for one mile around West Minnehaha Park. Times for the fasted team will be sent to the Guinness book. The idea was originally to break the longest leapfrog contest but changed when organizers discovered that it had lasted eight days.

TURTLE RACING IS STILL "IN"

Yes, its true.

Not only can Minnesota boast to have the Halloween Capital of the World but thanks to our distinguished House of Representatives, Longville Minnesota is official the Turtle Racing Capital of the World.

In 1967, former tavern owner Ray Nyvall started.turtle races to raise money for the towns Little League team.

These weekly races have continued today and actually draw hundreds of onlookers. The town has even doubled its population on race days to about 400!!!

At 2:00 every Wednesday, Main St. is closed down and a 15 foot wide circle painted on the pavement is surrounded by determined racers and onlookers.

The first place contestant wins a t-shirt and the Turtle Medallion which he or she has to return after a few minutes so it can be given to next week's winner.

Participants bring their own turtles or actually rent one from locals who catch them for $1 to $2. (contributed by Marilyn Brooks from Star/Tribune clippings) ARTICLES OF INTEREST

Among the different Reptile magazines and books there are also a few other magazines that offer some wonderful articles on Herps.

Recently, International Wildlife magazine (Sept-Oct 1992) had a wonderful pictorial on chameleons.

The photos by Art Wolfe were incredible and included chameleons, Parson's and Yemenese chameleons.

In the past this magazine has had article on a variety of rain forest herps including eyelash vipers.

Check your local library for back issues.

MHS members Dan Keyler and Barney Oldfield had a wonderful article on timber rattlesnakes in the May-June issue of THE MINNESOTA VOLUNTEER magazine called VELVET TAILS IN THE BLUFFLANDS. Along with some stunning photos and the article on their research were charts on their range and anatomy.

They also gave some tips on safety while hiking and snake bite information including the Minnesota Regional Poison Center hotline number (612-221-2113 or outside the metro area, call 800-222-1222). Dan and Barney will be giving a lecture on their research at the Raptor Center on the U of MN St. Paul Campus on October 11th. The VOLUNTEER is produced by the Minnesota DNR.

MRS NEWSLEITER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 15

~rom

YEMENESE CHAMELEON the Saudi Arabian peninsula.

MHS NEWSLEITER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9 PAGE 16

MHS CLASSIFIED RAT SALES Orders will be taken by Terry Scheiber only! and must be made at least one week before the general meeting.

Phone: (612) 440-7482.

PRICES MICE

RATS

Pinkies----$6.00 doz.

Fuzzies----$6.00 doz.

Adults-----$9.00 doz.

Pups-----$10.00 doz.

Adults---$12.00 for six $24.00 doz.

Mice and rats must be purchased by the dozen, except for adult rats, which can be purchased in allotments of six. Rat pinkies are unavailable at this time.

CAGE SALES The MHS will now be selling cages, there will be three basic sizes on display at the monthly meetings. A 50%, non-refundable, down payment will be required on all cages.

Custom cages will also be available upon request.

SPECIFICATIONS Small Cage 12" X 12" X 24" 1/2" sides, 1/4" back & ceiling an 1/4" melamine floor.

Brass hinges and lockable latch.

Door opens down.

Glass is double strength.

Cage will be unfinished.

Price $40.00 Medium Cage 12" X 12" X 36 ft 1/2" sides, 1/4ft back & ceiling and 1/4" melamine.

Brass Hinges and lockable latch.

Door opening to the side.

Glass is double strength.

Cage will be unfinished.

Price $60.00 Large Cage 24" X 24" X 48" 1/2" sides, 1/2" ceiling, 1/4" backwall and 1/4" melamine.

Brass hinges and lockable latch.

Two doors opening from center out.

Glass is double strength.

Cage will be unfinished.

Price $80.00 Orders will be taken by Nancy Haig at the meetings. Cages will then be delivered to the next meeting, except on custom orders.

MHS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 17

CLASSIFIED ADS 1.0.0

= male;

0.1.0

=

female; 0.0.1

= unknown

FOR SALE: Cornsnake Hatchlings.

Captive bred & hatched from captive bred parents. All have fed at least twice.

Big & hardy stock! Normals 20.00 and Red Albinos 30.00.

Discounts for quantities.

Call 374-5422 For Connie or John.

If no answer, leave a message.

FOR SALE: Two sub-adult prehensile-tailed skinks (Corucia zebrata) C.B. 1991, $150 each or $275 for both.

Call Sandy at 647-0661.

FOR SALE: Captive produced reptiles at very competitive prices.

Save air-freight; We deliver to MHS meetings!

Send for our free 1992 price list or call for more information.

MARTY BJERKE, P.O. Box 5818, Fargo ND 58105. (701) 241-9742.

FOR SALE: Rats and mice - pinkies to adults. Live or frozen. Prices upon request. Don's Rodents - (612) 462-8973.

FOR SALE: Speckled Kingsnake Hatchlings, $20 each; Black Ratsnake Hatchlings, $15.

Contact D. K. Compton at 872-7266 days and weekends.

FOR SALE: HUGE cage, 6' X 5' X 4', will consider trades. Drew (612) 776-2116.

FOR HIRE: Will build your reptile and/or rodent rooms, your design or ours. Also rack systems and cages including walk in.

All types of carpenter work.

Reasonable.

Call John at 374-5422.

WANTED: I need all the snake skins in the world - always - to give away at reptile programs and the MN State Fair.

Please bring to the State Fair or contact Bob Duerr at (612) 541 -9417.

MRS NEWSLETTER

VOLUME XII

NUMBER 9

PAGE 18

NEXT NEWSLETTER DEADLINE: OCTOBER 2, 1992

CLASSIFIED AD INSTRUCTIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members. Ads for venomous species, illegal species, or sick aminals will not be run. MHS takes no responsibility for legality or health of any animal advertised here. Ads may be run for three consecutive months at which time ads may be re-submitted. The editor reserves the right to omit ads when space is limited so as to allow all members a chance to advertise. Size of ads is limited to four (4) typed lines or one (1) standard size business card.

DEADLINE for all newsletter times 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

MEMBERSHIP AND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY NAME(S) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRES~S

______________________________________________________________

CITY ___________________ PHONE ______________________________

STATE _____

ZIP CODEL..<____________

LIST IN 1v1HS DIRECTORY?

YES

NO _ _

HERPRELATEDINTERESTS: _____________________________________________________

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP? MEMBERSHIP LEVEL?

NEW ___ RENEWAL _ _ _ _SUSTAINING .....$60.00

---1NSTITUTION .... $25.00

_ _CONTRIBUTING.....$30.00

_____ BASIC .... $15.00

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

OFFICIAL MHS T-SHIRT $7.00 (includes postage) Indicate how many of each size KIDS: 6-8_

ADULTS: 10-12_

SMALL_

MEDIUM_

LARGE_

X-LARGE_

Please enclose payment. MAKE CHECKS PAY ABLE 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

Non-Profit Bulk Rate U. S. Postage

MINNESOTA

PAID Mpls.MN Permit No. 2275

HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET S. E. MINNEASPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

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+

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DELIVER BY SEPTEMBER 23, 1992