Vol. 15 (1995), No. 7

NEWSLETTER OF THE

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

JULY 1995

VOLUME XV

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

10 CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST

NUMBER 7 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 pelS of any kind have been is this situation at one time or another. A group of MRS 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 757-8268 Karl Hermann 730-6265 Other Snakes John Meltzer 263-7880 John or Connie Levell 374-5422 Jeff LeClere 488-6388

Terrestrial turtles and tortoises 647-1334 John Moriarty AnnPorwoll 489-7853 757-8268 Glen (Jake) Jacobsen Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash John Levell

753-0218 374-5422 647-1334 533-7723 488-6388

Amphibians John Meltzer Greg Kvanbek

263-7880 533-7723

Lizards Nancy Haig Bill Moss

Minnesota Herps John Moriary Greg Kvanbek Jeff LeClere

434-8684 488-1383

Crocodilians Jeff Lang

Education Contact DavLydon

550-9855

Adoption Contact Glen (Jake) Jacobsen

(701) 772-0227

757-8268

• The purpose of the Minnesota Herpetological Society is: to further the education of the membership and tlte general public in care and captive propagation of reptiles and amphibians; to educate the membership and the general public in the ecological r(,lle of reptiles and amphibians; and to promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

MHS VOICE MAIL PHONE NUMBER: 624 - 7065 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 MEMBER-AT-LARGE

(612) 488-1383 (612) 533-7723 (612) 623-7620 (612) 925-4237 (612) 925-4237 (612) 374-5422 (612) 753-0218 (612) 624-7065 (612) 624-7065 (612) 457-8107 (612) 457-4636

Bill Moss Greg Kvanbek George Richard Randy Blasus Marilyn Brooks John Levell Gary Ash Dan Bergquist Liz Bowlds James Rea Siri Rea SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

(612) 347-3141

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM LOCAL OUT OF STATE

(612l221-2113 (800 222-1222

Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. 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 ,md proper credits are given to the MHS Newsletter, citing, volume, number, and dale,

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY Newsletter Volume XV Number 7 July 1995

CONTENTS

Editorial................................................... .........................................

Upcoming Meeting Highlights by Greg Kvanbeck....................................

News and Notes..................................................................................

Meeting Review by Randy Blasus..........................................................

Ecoviews - How are Things Down Under? by Whit Gibbons.......................

Geckos by Mike Hoffer........................................................................

Before You Buy Those Hot New Reptile Products by Gloria Anton..............

Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge by John P. LevelL...........................

Calendar of Events..............................................................................

MHS Business...................................................................................

Classified Advertisements.....................................................................

1 2 3 5 6 7 9

10 13 14 15

Comments on Last Month's Cover!

It's safe to say that it has long been a dream of many members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society, myself included, to see original artwork and/or photographs gracing the front cover of our society's monthly publication. In order to accomplish this goal there, obviously, has to be a starting point somewhere, and last month's edition of this newsletter (Vol. XV, No.6) hopefuBy represents that beginning. For the first of these "new look" covers I don't think we could have asked for a better start than Dan Keyler's Timber Rattlesnake drawing. More than a piece of original artwork by a long.time MHS member, Dan's exceBent drawing was specifically produced as a means of supporting the continuing research activities vitally important to the preservation of Timber Rattlesnakes as a viable component of Minnesota's herpetofauna. As the conservation of all amphibians and reptiles, particularly native species, is one of the major goals of the MHS, few, if any, drawing could be more deserving of appearing on the cover of our newsletter. High quality, limited edition, signed and number prints of Dan's drawing are available for $15 each and alI proceeds from these sales go directly to Timber Rattlesnake research activities here in Minnesota.

Purchasing copies of this print are an easy and effective way for everyone to support the conservation of our native species (for ordering information see the display advertisement elsewhere in this newsletter).

Returning to the subject of the cover of the MHS Newsletter, future changes will depend in large part on the submission of original artwork and high quality b&w photos from you the readers. For now, it's safe to assume that different cover art and/or photos will be an occasional feature only, so fans of our normal cover art can rest easy. Let me know what ya' all think.

JPL

Next Newsletter Deadline: August 4, 1995 Send all submissions to: MHS Editor BeB Museum of Natural History 10 Church St. SE Minneapolis, MN 55455路0104

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MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Upcoming Meeting Highlights August Program: The Captive Care and Maintenance of

Turtles and Tortoises Guest Speaker: Ron Humbert I'm really looking forward to the August meeting. If you are just starting with turtles and tortoises, or even if you're an experienced keeper looking for a few tips, you will learn a great deal by attending this meeting.

I hope that you have enjoyed the speakers that we bave had so far this year. I certainly have. We've had some good natural history herpin' types of speakers, and I've been getting requests for more husbandry and breeding oriented programs. I've also been getting requests for a turtle talk.

I'd also like to say thanks to those that have been bringing their herps for "Critter of the Month". I think that we need more, though. At the last couple of meetings, I noticed that there were several people that had animals with them, but for some reason did not wish to show them to the rest of us. We usually bave a lot more time for "Critter of the Montb", so let's have more critters! You may not think that your animals are interesting, but the rest of us probably do. ..路Greg

Well, tbis month we will bave both.

Ron Humbert, whom I consider to be one of the leading authorities on turtle and tortoise husbandry, will be giving us the benefit of his years of experience with these animals. Ran has been involved with turtles for more tban 40 years; in other words, since he was a little kid. He will be sho\ving slides, and discussing all of the Important facets to turtle busbandry; bousing, feeding, beating, water quality, disease, preventative maintenance, everytbing. As a herp assistance person, I've been fielding many questions on these subjects, and I can tell you that there is a lot of misinformation floating around out tbere. Unfortunately, mucb of that information is being propagated by pet stores, vets, and even experienced herp hobbyists! In other words, it appears that a primer on turtle and tortoise care is badly needed, and I don't think we could have gotten a better teacher than Ron. There will be a brief question and answer session at the end of Ron's program, so bring questions!

August Meeting Location: Bodaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus Time: August 4, 1995 - 7:00 p.m.

General meetings of the MHS are usually beld at Borlaug Hall on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota (see map below). In addition to the scheduled speaker, monthly meetings also feature Critter of the Month, so remember to bring your animals and, if possible, a container to display them in. Other regular meeting activities include; Adoptions and the MHS Library.

Ron will also be toucbing on a few other areas that he's interested in. One of those interests is canoeing.

In addition to building upper body strength, canoeing is a great was to meet turtles. Ron has canoed many rivers in search of turtles, particularly Graptemys (Map Turtles) in the deep South. He bas leamed bow to catch Maps and other turtle species from his canoe, and bas a great deal of experience in that activity.

Conservation of turtles is also an Important subject that Ron will be discussing. For several years now, be bas spent time observing and studying Wood Turtles in Michigan. He also has been head starting Woodies for several years now. Head starting means hatching the turtles, feeding them, raising them for a year or so, and then releaSing them where they originated. Ron will be going over the pros and cons of such a program.

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MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

NEWS AND NOTES Savage Revises Animal Ordinance

Turtles Reclassified?

Snakes and Other Animals The ordinance was also revised to allow nonvenomous snakes and some non-domesticated animals in Savage as long as they are continuously caged.

An earlier version of the ordinance would have outlawed all poisonous snakes and non-domesticated animals, but a request by Terry Scheiber, a representative of the Minnesota Herpetological Society from the Bell Museum of Natural History, caused city staff to look at the ordinance again and make some changes.

The changes included a specific listing of the type of venomous snakes that will not be allowed, including snakes of the Family Viperidae, such as adders, gaboon vipers and pit vipers; venomous snakes of the Family Elapidae, such as cobras, coral snakes and sea snakes; three snakes of the Family Colubridae, the African twig snake, the rear-fanged boomslang, and the Asian tiger snake; whether captured in the wild or domestically raised, defanged; de-venomed or not de-venomed.

The ordinance does allow non-venomous snakes, birds kept indoors, hamsters, mice, rabbits, gerbils, white rats, guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, lizards or similar animals which are continuously caged.

Under the proposal, no person other than zookeepers, researchers, and veterinarians would be able to "keep, maintain or harbor within the City of Savage any of the following animals: skunks, whether or not they are de-scented or vaccinated against rabies; all large cats such as lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards, bobcats and cougars; all members of the family Canidae, such as wolves, foxes, coyotes, dingoes and jackals, except domesticated dogs; all undomesticated crossbreeds, such as crossbreeds between dogs and coyotes, or dogs and wolves; certain venomous snakes (see listing above); all raccoons; all apes and monkeys, except those kept by handicapped persons as household helpers; and all other non-domestic animals, such as bears, wolverines, badgers, alligators and crocodiles.

Reptiles include eastern and red-sided garter snakes, northern red-bellied snake and northern brown snake.

Amphibians include western painted and snapping turtles, leopard and wood frogs and eastern tiger salamanders.

Editor's Note: The preceding statements appear in the official MN DNR 1995 Summer Trail Guide for Myre-Big Island State Park at Albert Lea Lake in Freeborn County, MN. Except for minor correction to an obvious typographical error, these statements are reproduced here exactly as written. JPL

Yet Another New Salamander!

Commander Salamander "I never expected this," says John Jensen, field zoologist with the Florida Natural Areas Inventory.

"This is something biologists dream about."

The subject of Jensen's dream is a wet 2-inch-long amphibian, reddish-brown with bright yellow under its' tail. And what set his dream in motion was the animal's sex life.

No, this isn't some strange proclivity on the scientist's part; the creature's unusual breeding habits are what led Jensen to assume that he had found a species of lungless salamander new to science.

The discovery was made at north Florida's Eglin Air Force Base, one of three Florida military bases on which The Nature Conservancy is helping with rare species management and protection under an agreement with the Department of Defense.

The breeding season for the as-yet-unnamed new species is October and November, not the more familiar January-February cycle orits sister species, the common dwarf salamander. Jensen and his colleagues observed about a dozen of the amphibians for more than a year before their special status was confirmed. But scientists don't think the salamanders are permanent residents of the pond where they were discovered.

To help ensure the new species' survival, scientists will need to discover where they spend the rest of their lives. As Jensen observes, "If you thought our spying on these salamanders' sex habitats was strange, wait till you see us tracking them through the palmettos."

Editor's Note: The preceding account is an excerpt of a longer article concerning a proposed animal ordinance in the City of Savage, MN. Please note that Terry Scheiber and other MHS members were instromental in having this proposed legislation revised regarding the keeping of reptiles within the city limits of Savage. Hopefully, this will serve as an example of the effect concerned individuals can have on local governments when they make their views known. The original article appeared in the May 26, 1995 edition of The Savage Pacer and is reprinted here by permission. JPL

Editor's Note: The preceding article, written by Ron Geatz, was originally published in the July/August 1995 edition of Nature Conservancy magazine. It is reprinted here by pennission. JPL

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MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

July "Critters of the Month"

Missouri Frogs Must Feel Special!!

Green Iguana Iguana iguana Chris Miller Corn Snake Elaphe guttata Keith Tucker & Green Iguana Julie Beauvais Iguana iguana Julie Peterson Desert Kingsnake Lamprope/tis getula splelUiida Northern Water Snake (scaleless) Eric Thiss Nerodia sipedon Micbael Howard Spiny-tailed Agama Uromastyx aegypticus Greg Kvanbeek Everglades Rat Snake Elaphe obsoleta rossalleni

Frog Season Opens June 30 JEFFERSON CITY --- Longing for tbe taste of deep-fried frog legs? Or maybe you want to revisit childbood memories as you chase bouncing bullfrogs along the edge of a pond.

Either way, frogging is an activity that can be pursued throughout Missouri starting at sunset June 30. The combined daily limit for green frogs and bullfrogs is eight. The hardest thing about frogging might be deciding what method to use to take your frogs. Agile folks with good hand-eye coordination might try catching the slippery amphibians by hand. at the other end of the spectrum are those who bag frogs from afar with a .22-caliber rifle.

Frogging blurs tbe line between hunting and fisbing, with some methods covered by botb licenses.

With a bunting license you can use a .22-caliber rimfire rifle or pistol, a pellet gun, longbow, crossbow, or bandnet, or you can take frogs by band. A fishing license allows froggers to use hook and line, longbow, bandnet, or gig or take frogs by band.

Frogging is one of the few hunting or fishing activities that allows the use of lanterns, flasblights and otber artiflciallight sources. frogs are active at nigbt, and easy to locate if you follow tbe "jug-a-rum ... jug-a-rum.... " So if tbe taste of frog legs or the very sport itself becomes an addiction, you can pursue frogs 24 bours a day, non-stop, from sunset June 30 to the close of the season at midnight Oct. 31.

Hunting with a rifle or a pistol may not be quite as sure-fire a way to reach the eight-frog limit as it seems. With a gun, there's no way to reel the frog in once you hit it. also, extra caution is required, since ricochets can result when a bullet hits rocks or water.

Froggers who use .22s should use hollow point bullets, which produce cleaner kills.

Opportunities to subdue frogs abound allover Missouri. All it takes is a hunting or fishing license, a body of water and whatever tackle or gear you've chosen to use.

Good frogging!

Craig Grant

July Refresbments For bringing refreshments to the previous MHS meeting tbe society says Thank You to: The Rea Family

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Editor's Note: The preceding article, author unknown, is an official" All Outdoors" press release of the Missouri Department of Conservation. It bas been reprinted here in it's entirety. JPL

A Perfectly "cool" treat for July!

As always, we need as many people as possible to donate items in order to keep the refreshments successfuL Please do not hesitate to bring an item, as it is always most sincerely appreciated. Thank you. Nanette Jimerson - Refreshment Chairperson.

Special Notice Due to unforeseen circumstances Liz Boulds has had to resign as MHS Member at Large. Barb Radanke, having received the next highest number of votes, has been appointed to fulfill this position's remaining term by MHS President Bill Moss.

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MRS News/eller Va/lime XV Nlimber 7

General Meeting Review

By Randy Blasus Recording Secretary Milwaukee. It is felt that the Butler's Garter may also be under pressure from the Plains Garter through hybridization from the more numerous, and larger Plains species. The Massa~auga, Sistruras catenatlls, is endangered in the state, but still has a couple of viable populations left. There is currently an attempt to protect the Timber Rattlesnake, Crota/lis /lOrridlls, as well. Timbers are not as common as they were in the past, but landowners are against such a proposal.

Creatures, such as the Western Ribbon Snake, Thamnophis proximlls, are known from only a few records with no known viable population. The habitat these animals prefer, however, makes finding them problematical, as they live in and around bogs that have a sphagnwn mat, difficult terrain to survey at best.

Gary Casper\ a fanner Minnesotan who now lives in Wisconsin, gave us an update on their work on the Herpetological Atlas project for that state.

Wisconsin has two distinct habitat fonns that meet in a tension zone (an area where habitat types coincide) that spans the state from east to west. North of this zone, hardwood forest dominates; while to the south it is replaced by savanna. There is also a remnant Driftless Area (not glaciated) in the southwestern corner of the state. The varied topography and geological history al low many different herps to make their home in the state.

The Atlas work began soon after Gary obtained a position at the Milwaukee Public Museum and has been continued to the present. The county by county range maps that were originally produced in Dick Vogt's now out of print publication, Natural History of Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin (1981); were used as the baseline of the project. Since then many new county records have been filled in through the help of volunteers.

Some of the animals mentioned have a relevance to our state such as the Four-Toed Salamander, which was recently found in Northern Minnesota. The Musk Turtle, Sternotheras odoratlls, is a species that may also occur in this state; especially since the one found in Wisconsin was collected on the Mississippi River. Musk Turtles are hard to fmd, if for no other reason then their small adult size.

-

Fifty-two well documented species exist in Wisconsin with three additional species for which there is only one record. Even the more well known species still need work, though, as there are gaps in some of the range maps, and others are so spotty that more infonnation is needed to help resolve them.

Documentation includes: road killed animals, color slides showing identifying characteristics, tape recordings and written accounts. Each report should have exact locality data, your name, address and phone number. Gary has a packet that is mailed yearly to volunteers. It goes over more of the details on what is needed as far as information, plus what regulations apply to those doing the field work.

Other amphibians and reptiles were mentioned during the presentation; many of which are native to Minnesota because their range extends across the border, like the American Toad, Bllfo america,".s.

Some may occur in the two states only by following a shared river system like the Mississippi. In any case, many excellent photos we re shown, many of which were taken by Gary himself.

After the distribution information is compiled and put into a computer database, the state's herpetofauna can be correlated to other mapped data such as vegetation or soil types, Some preliminary work has been performed on this comparison to help find certain species. Existing records maps were overlaid by soil composition maps to see what type a particular animal prefers and to conjecture where else it may live based on that preference. This allows the biologist to spend less time afield looking for the animals, as the best possible locations will receive the most attention.

Next, Gary ran through the documented species and explained a little about each. Many of the surveyed creatures are hard to find let alone photograph. One such animal is the Four-Toed Salamander, Remidactylium scutatllm, whose habitat preference and habits make it difficult to locate. It is found in Birch and Maple uplands around spring-fed bogs and is mainly fossorial in nature. Another dilemma of documentation is illustrated by the Bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana. In this case, because of introduced popUlations, it is hard, if not impossible, to distinguish which ones are naturally occurring. The Butler's Garter Snake, Thamlwphis but/eri, is also a problem, but this is because of its similar appearance to the Plains Garter, Thamnophis radix, and a very restricted range. This animal is unfortunately native to the heavily developed counties around Racine and

There is a good opportunity for anyone who herps in Wisconsin to contribute to this project. In fact, a lot of records are needed in the border counties along the Mississippi, relatively close to home. Gary invited anyone who was interested to sign up on a mailing list. This was a fascinating look into the workings of a major project in which individual contributions can make a difference. 0000000000000000000000000

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MHS Newsleller Volume XV Number 7

ECOVIEWS HOW ARE THINGS DOWN UNDER?

by Whit Gibbons absence down under suggested to us that raccoons are a keystone species of North America--a species that controls the character of an ecological system.

Early in 1994 I caught my first python in the wild.

The seven-foot-Iong constrictor was one of 25 we caught. We released them at the site of capture, as our objective was simply to see the habitat, observe snake behavior, and become familiar with a new group of animals. The "we" was a group of American, Japanese, and Swedish ecologists hosted

by Rick Shine of the University of Sydney on a field trip to the Northern Territory in Australia.

Although the mangrove snakes did not display any defensive behavior, other animals did. One day I approached a blue-tongued skink, an enormous lizard nearly two feet long and as big around as a coffee cup.

Rather than trying to bite me it opened its mouth and displayed its huge tongue, which was as blue as the sky. I was not deterred from captnring it, but a predatory bird might think twice before pouncing on such a creature.

In Australia everything is backward, except the people. On a summer day in January we went l!ll toward the equator, driving in the left lane, to a tropical area near a town caI\ed Humpty 000. I became used to the constellation Orion being upside down and the dog star, Sirius, being on the right instead of the left.

Many animals also have unusual methods for obtaining food. One is the death adder, apUy named because most people who receive a solid bite are unlikely to live. We found more than a dozen at night in the floodplain of the Adelaide River. Although a member of the cobra family, death adders have evolved to look Ilke the unrelated vipers: they have fat bodies, elliptical pupils, and broad heads, not unlike our cottonmouths.

Even for a herpetologist, snake hunting in Australia is something of an adventure. For one thing, the majority of snake species belong to the cobra family.

(In the United States, only the coral snake belongs to that group.) Many of the snakes in Australia are deadly poisonous. According to Rick Shine, the first rnle to follow with an Australian snake is "don't pick it up." The second rule--if you're a herpetologist with split-second reactions and you're certain that it is one of the few non-venomous species--is "catch it by hand." The venomous ones need to be handled with special techniques.

A hungry death adder sits and walts for a frog or small mammal to come by. Then it lifts its tail, which is black above and yellow below, and begins to wiggle the end above iis head. Seeing what appears to be an easy meal of fresh caterpillar, the prey animal captures the squirming morsel. The end is quick. The death adder's venom kills the other animal before it realizes it has become prey instead of predator.

Interestingly, baby cottonmouths and copperheads also have bright yellow tails that are used to lure small prey.

Observing natnre in a totally different environment can provide ecological perspectives about the way our world works. One night on a collecting trip, as we traveled by boat through mangrove swamps near the Arafura Sea, Steve Amold of the University of Chicago and I observed an unusual phenomenon. At least it would be unusual in North American river swamps.

Harmless mangrove snakes lay stretched out on mud flats near the water, and they were extremely easy to catch. Few tried to escape. Likewise, the crabs and the mud skippers (fish that walk around on land), showed no alarm at our presence. Why would animals let a potential predator approach them so closely?

The opportunity to explore a new ecosystem, the Australian tropics, could not be passed up (even though I missed New Year's Eve altogether, leaving Los Angeles on December 30 and arriving in Australia on January 1). But a week offour-foot-Iong monitor lizards, man-eating crocodiles, and countless snakes did not diminish my wonder at the everyday creatures that inhabit my backyard. Wherever you are, exploring nature is the greatest adventure. The final frontier that anyone can journey to.

No one knows the answer for sure, but the shores of southern U.S. rivers, where we collect ever-wary water snakes, are patrolled by fierce (to a snake) land predators. Raccoons. A snake, crab, or land-walkIng fish that did not flee immediately along the shoreline of our rivers would be quickly eliminated. Their

Editor's Note: The preceding article is one instal~nent of Dr. J. Whitfield Gibbons' weekly syndicated column; Ecoviews. Originally published in the 1/30/94 edition of the Aiken, SC Standard, it has been reprinted here through the kind permission of Dr. Gibbons. 00000000000000000000000000000

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MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Geckos

By Mike Hoffer almost impossible to kill and can live to 15 years of age. Originally from South-central Asia, Iran and Pakistan, it is seldom imported anymore. It is, however, one of the most widely captive bred species of gecko. The prolific nature of these geckos is such that it is one of the most affordable captive produced geckos on the market. They have a very even temper and can be handled readily. The Leopard Gecko is easily fhe number one choice for anyone beginning in reptiles. Other popular species in this gecko group are the African Fat-tailed, Hemitheconyx caudicinctus, and the southwestern U.S.A.'s Banded Desert Gecko, Coleonyx variegatus. All three species prefer a more arid environment and can be housed in a ten gallon aquarium with a sand substrate and a layer of rocks for hiding. Heating should be provided with an under the tank heat source keeping the sand temperature at around 95 degrees and the air temperature around 85 degrees F.

There are over 800 different species of geckos in the world. Geckos are found on almost evcry continent and in almost every climatic environment on Earth.

The colors that geckos possess, rival fhose of many of fhe other reptiles, even some tropical fish. They come in almost every color of fhe rainbow, from Madagascar's Giant Day Gecko, Phe[sumn madagascariensis grandis, wifh it's most vibrant deep green wifh cherry red markings; to fhe juvenile Standing's Day Gecko, Phelsllma standingi, with blue tail, brown striped body and gold mottled head.

Gecko's also make fhe perfect "insect control" inhabitant for any planted terrarium. These might also work out quite well for some homes I've been in!

Actually, geckos are often encouraged to occupy houses in many countries as a source of good luck.

They are often purchased in these countries as an environmentally friendly form of insect control.

Through increased imports, and more importantly, successful captive management and breeding, many types of geckos are becoming available and affordable.

Many more species will probably be seen for sale in fhe near future.

Many of the geckos of the subfamily Gekkoninae are the most popular, as far as importation and sales in pet shops are concerned. This subfamily includes the previously mentioned Tokay Gecko from Thailand, with it's voracious appetite for anything itcan swallow. The tiny House Gecko, Hemidactyills frenallls, the most inexpensive of all imports, rivals the Common Anole in sales and price. The Striped Gecko, Gekko vittatlls, Bibron's Gecko, Pachydactyills bibroni, and the Day Gecko, PhefslIma madagascariensis, are medium priced and usually make good captives. General care for these geckos includes a daily spray misting and a jungle or tropical habitat. A good supply of calcium in their diet of crickets, flies, fruit sauce and occasional wax worms is needed. The larger geckos will take pinkie to full sized mice. The use of a Vita-lite or Ultra Tri-Lux full spectrum florescent lighting with UVB properties for 12 to 14 hours daily is also recommend with most gecko ensembles. Many gecko breeders advise that this lighting be kept within very close proximity to the lizards. as always, glass covers will filter out UV radiation, rendering full spectrum lighting useless.

Most often seen on importer's and dealer's pricelists, and in pet shops, is the Tokay Gecko, Gekko gecko.

Tokay's are generally colorful and inexpensive lizards.

Unfortunately, Tokay Geckos are relatively large, have a generally nasty disposition and fhe species is very vocal. You really have to experience lOOking down their gaping mouths and hear them shouting their name; "tokay-tokay", out at you to appreciate just how aggressive this species can be. It's enough to keep the avemge person from furthering their involvement with other geckos. That's too bad!

Most of the commonly available geckos are on the smaller side of the scale, generally from three to eight inches in length. Because of this trai~ they appeal to a great number of hobbyists with limited housing capabilities. Once bitten by the "gecko bug" it is fairly easy to maintain a sizable collection in a small amount of space. Many of the geckos are calm, do not bite and a very quiet. Besides having some very interesting behaviors, many geckos are very hardy when provided the essential habitat requirements needed by that specific species. Geckos range in price from about $4 to $125 or more, wifh the majority of them falling into the $20 to $50 category.

At the 1993 International herpetological Symposium held in Miami, a Gecko Workshop on husbandry was modemted by Jeffrey Nunan. Nunan is currently the President of the International Gecko Society (LG.S.), which has approximately 650 members worldwide.

Nunan advocates the use of full spectrwn lighting for achieving better colors and health in captive geckos.

He also advocates the use of papaya, smashed bananas and fruit sauce baby food in gecko diets. Even the insect eaters like to "lap-up" nectar type foods.

Nunan also suggested that large vertical cages be used

Geckos as a group fall into some interesting subfamilies. The most popular of the Eublepharinae or eyelid geckos is the extremely hardy Leopard Gecko, Eublepharis macularillS. This species is

7

MRS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7 for some of the climbing gecko species, and that these cages should be planted with live Dracaena or Corn plants. The I.G.S. publishes a beautiful color illustrated quarterly journal; Dactylus, which is included as part of the membership benefits at an annual fee of about $20. For more infonnation contact: The International Gecko Society, P.O. Box 370423, San Diego, CA 92137-0423.

For Sale or Petting Zoos Parties or Promotions ANIMALS OF WALTON'S HOLLOW Exotic & Fann Animals Bill & Jean Walton 5425 Peterson Road White BearLake,MN 55127-6713 (612)426-8163

An excellent reference book on the care and identification of the more popular gecko species is Hennann Seufer's Keeping and Breeding Geckos, published by T.F.R. Many of the more popular and commonly available pet store geckos are covered in this title, making it an especially valuable volume to have around.

Recommended Reading:

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

Dial, Benjamin E. and Grismer, L. Lee. 1994.

Phylogeny and Physiology: Evolution of Lizards in the Genus Coleonyx. In: Herpetology of North American Deserts, Proceedings of a Symposium. Southwestern Herpetologists Society. Van Nuys, CA. Pgs. 239254.

LARGEST PRODUCER OR SMALL EXOTIC MAMMALS IN MINNESOTA! HEDGEHOGS, DUPRASIS, ZEBRA MICE, PYGMY MICE, GIANT AFRICAN POUCHED RATS, JlRDS, MOUSE LEMURS, BRUSH-TAILED KANGAROOS, AND MUCH, MUCH MORE! - U.S.D.A LICENSED

de Vosjoli, Philippe. 1990. The General Care and Maintenance of Leopard Geckos and African Fat-tailed Geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems. Lakeside, CA 36pp.

McKeown, Sean. 1993. The General Care and Maintenance of Day Geckos. Advanced Vivarium Systems. Lakeside, CA. 143pp.

By DAN PlRARO

Rundquist, Eric M. 1994. Day Geckos. T.F.R. Publications. Neptune, NJ. 65pp.

-]--

--\-

Seufer, Hennann. 1991. Keeping and Breeding Geckos. T.F.H. Publications. Neptune, NJ. 191pp.

Thorogood, J. and Whimster, I.W. 1979. The Maintenance and Breeding of the Leopard Gecko, Eublepharis macularius, as a Laboratory Animal. In: International Zoo Yearbook, Vol. 19. London, England. Pgs 74-

78.

Editors Note: Mike Hoffer is a long time member of the Wisconsin Herpetological Society and is the owner of Hoffer's Tropic Life Pets in Milwaukee.

Mike's shop stocks a large variety of amphibians and reptiles, and of course related supplies. Mike is a frequent contributor of herp related articles to various herpetological and pet industry periodicals. When visiting the Milwaukee area plan on stopping by Hoffer's, as Mike has a wealth of information to share on the husbandry of amphibians and reptiles. 000000

8

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MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Before You Buy Those Hot New Reptile Products ...

By Gloria Anton

Reptiles have been in the spotlight for the past two years. As a result, many manufacturers have been quick to jump on the "band wagon" and produce new products - many of them without much thought, research or experience. I encourage you to think about the products you are buying and question their validity and safety. Some food for thought:

REMEMBER - All manufacturers are going to tell you their product is great and their competitor's products arc not. Remember, so many of these products are new, WE DONT KNOW WHAT THEIR EFFECTS ARE GOING TO BE ON OUR ANIMALS 5 YEARS FROM NOW, because they haven't been tested long enough by the manufacturers to know.

*) Infra-red bulbs: Have long been used on reptiles

I know this seems like a strange article for me to write - my business is to sell these products to you, the consumer. I am, bowever, very concerned with this blossoming of products - many by people who have no reference or background and just want to get in on the profits. I have had the opportunity to speak with manufactnrers and their reps and have been pleased with some and scared to death by others because of the lack of wbat I see as responsibility.

As a responsible provider, I have to encourage you to look, examine and question.

for night-time heat sources. They are also used in the restaurant industry as food wanners (those hot red lamps that keep your food warm and dry it out before your wait-person picks it up), and for people as bathroom beat lamps. Tbey come with an exposuretime warning (not over 30 minutes) for bumansthey dry out our cells from the inside. If this is what tbey do to us, bow good can tbey be for our animals wben we use tbem for night-time heat for 8 - 10 bours??? *) And as to the argument tbat animals don't see red, if that's the case, wby do iguanas and many otber animals specifically key in on red, orange or yellow foods? And if they don't see colors, wby do several of the manufactnrers specifically make colored food pellets? We now know that animals do have cones in there retina for color distinction.

EdItor's Note: Gloria Anton is a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitater and the long time owner of Vivarium Pets which shares shop space and is affiliated with Bruce Delles' Twin Cities Reptiles. These two stores in combination offer one of the largest selections of supplies, fresbwater fish, exotic birds, small mammals, and, of course, amphibians and reptiles available in one place anywhere, and the stores are a must visit for anyone in the Twin Cities area. 00000

*) Black Iigbt bulbs: If these bulbs can damage the human retina in 5 minutes, why should they be any safer for animals - especially tbose that don't have eyelids??? Perhaps tbe ones manufactured for the pet trade aren't truly black lights, but do you know that for a fact? And do we bave any objective llterature (other than manufactnrer's claims) that tell us just what those other special "rare" chemical coatings might do to the retina?

*) New pelleted foods: Does a manufactnrer's experience in making bird, fish and small animal foods qualify them to enter the reptile nutrition market or are they just joining the crowd (Pretty Pe~ Ocean Nutrition, KayTee, LM, etc.)? Is it just a coincidence that all four of these foods look abnost identical??? What kinds of LONG TERM test have they done? Is two years long enough when an animal has the potential of living 20?

TIMBER RATTLESNAKE LIMITED EDITION PRINT

By Dan Keyler This original pen & ink drawing is limited to an edition of 141 signed and numbered prints.

Prints cost $15.00 each and can be personalized upon request. Anyone interested in purchasing a print should contact the artist at MHS meetings or by calling (612) 374-8760 (\V) or (612) 9332055. Proceeds will be used to further Timber Rattlesnake research in Minnesota. Order soon they won't last long.

*) New spray products that soak into your animal's skin: Just how porous is your iguana's skin - and does your Callopistes clean itself off with it's tongue like your cat does? How can your animal benefit from products if they are designed for behavior or biology that just doesn't fit?

9

MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Herpetological Field Trip (May 26-29, 1995)

By John P. Levell just enough of a wind break for us to successfully set up our tents. Despite the adversely windy conditions, the first herpetological specimen of the trip, a single Great Plains Toad, B1Ifo cognatus, was discovered at this location before retiring for the evening.

Over the 1995 Memorial Day weekend, six members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society (MHS); Brandon and Chase Delles, Ken Hoeye, Connie Levell, Eric Thiss, and the author, traveled to and explored the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (U.S.F.W.S.) Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The Refuge is located in northeastern or northcentral South Dakota's Brown County (Tl26-127N, R6162W), with the nearest town being Houghton (pronounced "how-ton") approximately 25 miles northeast of Aberdeen. The vast majority or Sand Lake's 21,498 acres consists of a man-made water retention area created by darnnting the James River, and the Refuge is one of the largest waterfowl production areas in North America; a fact that was abundantly evident throughout the duration of our visit.

We awoke early Saturday morning to a bleak, gray and windy day, complete with an incessant rain that at times approached what can best be described as a torrential downpour. While our spirits were brightened somewhat by some freshly baked and delicious caramel rolls, a specialty of Houghton's resident cafe/tavemlbait shop/general store, kindly provided by Will Meeks and company, it was all too readily apparent that we were in for a cold, wet, and probably unproductive day. Preparing ourselves as well as possible and resolving to give it our best shot, however, we piled into a U.S.F.W.S. four wheel drive suburban and a pickup trock and proceeded on a guided tour of the Refuge. While the weather promised to be uncooperative from a herpetological standpoint, it soon became evident that there was a wealth of wildlife of other types to be observed at Sand Lake. This was especially troe of the birdlife, particularly waterfowl, which occurred in an abundance and diversity seldom, if ever, experienced by this author before. Cormorants, coots, ducks of numerous species, egrets, Snow and Canadian Geese, grebes, herons and White Pelicans were easily seen in spite of the wet conditions, and our group was even fortunate enough to observe White-faced Ibis, an unexpected and highly memorable event considering our northerly geographic position.

The purpose of this MHS trip, originally initiated by South Dakota State University (SDSU) Professor Kenneth Higgins, was to assist and participate in SDSU graduate student Will Meeks' ongoing vertebrate inventory of the Refuge. As a group the six previously mentioned MHS members departed from Excelsior, MN for Sand Lake at approximately 5:00 Friday afternoon, car pooling in a single vehiCle, Eric's full size and exceptionally comfortable van.

Along with the usual travel conversation and banter, Friday night's "Quest for Dinner" had to be the highlight of an otherwise uneventful and somewhat slow drive westward across the state. Triggered by an anonymous "I'm hungry - let's eat" sometime around 8:00 p.m., our party proceeded to stop at the next roadside cafe encountered along U. S. Highway 12.

Immediately after entering this typical small town diner, however, we were informed that this establishment had in fact "just closed" and that we would have to take our business, and by this time growling stomachs elsewhere. Arriving at the next roadside eatery, our group was again informed that the restaurant had likewise "closed not more than ten minutes ago." This somewhat amusing and, judging from our collective groans of displeasure, unfortunate scenario was repeated a total of three or four times, before finally having our hunger satisfied (using the term liberally) at an A & W Rootbeer stand.

As the major reason for us visiting Sand Lake was to fmd and document as many amphibian and reptile species as possible, our party couldn't resist, once we had been successfully pried away from the comparative warmth and dryness of the vehicles, making frequent "walk about" excursions at various locations in the Refuge. Predictably, these efforts proved fruitless, as not one single herpetological specimen was discovered throughout the duration of the morning's explorations. This fact, combined with the incredibly persistent rain which seemed to never subside past the point of a steady drenching drizzle, served to dampen our spirit as well as our skins.

Upon arrival at Sand Lake, sometime around our group was greeted by a continual howling wind that under normal circumstances would have made pitching tents an exceedingly difficult task at best. Fortunately, the Columbia Recreation Area set aside for our encampment (camping is nonnally not allowed at Sand Lake) included a large "blockhouse" style bathroom building which provided

Just as the afternoon was starting, however, our travels brought us to the site of a combination Refuge storage facility and residence where it was decided to "poke around" the associated buildings, equipment and maintenance materials. During the course of this investigation a large and, unfortunately, neat stack of small Refuge boundary signs was found by the author, who in turning one of the relatively

midnigh~

10

MRS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7 Bufo hemiophrys, two as yet unidentified species of tadpoles, three Prairie Skinks, Ellmeces septentrionalis, and a couple of additional Plains Garter Snakes.

few signs scattered about uncovered a small juvenile Plains Garter Snake, Tizamnopilis radix. While this author was busy congratulating himself on catching the first snake and his snake finding prowess in general, Eric turning yet another sign discovered what was undoubtedly the "prize find" of the entire trip; a Red-bellied Snake, Store ria occipitomaclliata, one of South Dakota's state listed threatened and endangered species.

Later in the morning and early afternoon we explored a couple of additional areas of the Refuge without success before embarking on our return trip to Refuge Headquarters for a much anticipated barbecue graciously planned and provided for us by our hosts.

Along the way, howevcr, we couldn't help but stop and listen to, what was to those of us from eastern Minnesota anyway, the unfamiliar calls of some mysterious anuran. Being somewhat pressed for time, it was decided that further investigation would have to be postponed until after dinner.

By this time even the most water repellent of us was thoroughly soaked, and there was little alternative but to return to camp in an effort to dry out. Enroute we stopped and had an excellent hot lunch in a neat bar & grill, housed in a log cabin style building in the nearby town of Columbia, SD just south of the Refuge. The remainder of the afternoon and early evening was spent enjoying Will's gracious offer of the use of his residence on the Refuge Headquarters grounds, where we dried our clothes, compared notes, and prepared our supper ofharbecued pork-chops under the shelter of the adjoining garage.

Arriving back at Refuge Headquarters the individual members of our party engaged in various activities including; sorting and setting up specimens, composing notes, starting our series of much needed showers at Will's place, or other things of a more personal nature. Practically all the MHS members participated in a pilgrimage to the top of Sand Lake's towering fire observation platform. This structure, which is easily 100 feet tall, consists of a small enclosed observation deck, accessed via an exceedingly steep and narrow "fire escape" type stairway, perched atop, and supported by, a simple open to the air metal framework. Although this tower swayed uncomfortably in the brisk wind, the view from the top was spectacular and well worth the climb.

As the evening was becoming progressively later with the rain showing no signs of abating, it became painfully apparent that it would be impossible for at least some of us to successful spend a dry night in our tents. Once again, however, the kindness and hospitality of our hosts manifested itself when Refuge Manager John Koerner insisted we utilize the Interpretive Center building as our sleeping quarters, where we were insured of a wann, bug free and, most importantly, dry night.

In the meantime, Professor Higgins and his wife arrived from Brookings, SD, which was a very auspicious event as they had a large portion of the meat designated for our meal. While exchanging greetings and examining our collections with Professor Higgins, Connie, who had walked over to the Interpretive Center, returned carrying a large female Plains Garter Snake captured enroute. This touched off an immediate search of the Headquarters' expansive grounds by those of us awaiting or finished with our turn in the showers, while Wit!, John Koerner, Professor Higgins and company set off to ftre up the grills and get dinner started.

Among the stuffed ducks, geese, and other assorted artifacts of the Interpretive Center was absolutely the largest Painted Turtle, Chrysemys picta, shell any of us had ever seen. In fact, this turtle was so big that the first reaction of at least two members of our group, including the author, were "where did this slider shell come from." Upon obtaining measurements and consulting a field guide this specimen was found to be just a fraction of an inch smaller than the 9 7/8 inch record size cited for this species in Conant and Collins (1991). Also included among the Center's specimens were the shells of a smaller Painted Turtle and two small Snappers, Chelydra serpentina.

This exploration of the grounds surrounding the Refuge Headquarters produced several more Plains Garter Snakes, including another large female discovered by Ken Hoeye in the shade under a trailer parked aiongside the large pole barn where dinner was being prepared. The food now being ready, we all sat down to an incredibly delicious meal of barbecued turkey fillcts wrapped in bacon. hamburgers, assorted salads, chips and dip, all topped off with a desert of cookies and/or brownies. The great food, expertly prepared by John Koerner and Professor Higgins. combined with some highly social conversation easily made this one of the more memorable meals of the year. While the rest of us finished our showers or

Sunday morning we awoke to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and a day which although still windy, was at least clear and sunny. After observing numerous basking Painted Turtles in roadside wetlands and a mandatory "pit stop" for caramel rolls and more coffee at the Houghton Hilton, we proceeded to an abandon railroad line bisecting portions of the Refuge's far eastem border where we spent the majority of the a.m. hours hunting. This railroad grade proved to be the herpetological "hot spot" of this particular trip, as here we captured and documentcd; several specimens of the Canadian Toad,

11

MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7 It now being past I :00 p.m., we reluctantly headed back to break camp and pack our gear into the van for are return trip home to Minncsota. Before our final departure from Sand Lake, howevcr, we enjoyed one last "pot luck' barbecue with Will Mecks and his fellow SDSU student Mike Estey. With the exception of a few dead Plains Garter Snakes on the road out of the Refuge, and a $70 speeding ticket, the ride home was uneventful although full of lively conversation regarding our experiences at Sand Lake.

just relaxed after eating, our designated "frog man;" Chase Delles, was busy collecting examples of the Western Chorus Frog, Pseudacris triseriata. These diminutive anurans were located at a small wet area not far from our outdoor dining room.

Following a brief early evening rain shower, our group departed Refuge Headquarters arriving at the site of our earlier encounter with the mystery frog call well after nightfall. To our delight the species was calling in earnest now, with a volume and intensity that was truly astounding. After donning our hip waders, "manure" boots, or other water proof footgear and equipping ourselves with flashlights, we proceeded into the roadside wetland which was, in reality, a deeply flooded cornfield with standing water in some places well over 12 inches in depth.

In retrospect it can safely be said that this was, in all respects, a highly enjoyable way to spend a Memorial Day Weekend. In total we found at least 9, possibly 11 counting the two unidentified tadpoles, different species of amphibians and reptiles (see list below), in one of the many areas of South Dakota which are poorly known from a herpetological standpoint. In addition, we saw 54 bird species, not bad considering the fact that herpetologists spend most of their time staring at the ground, plus several different mammals.

All six MHS members demonstrated a remarkable degree of patience, understanding and camaraderie despite the sometimes adverse conditions, and each contributed greatly to the enjoyment and success of this trip. The kindness, hospitality, and just plain friendliness extended to our group by the representatives of both the U.S.F.W.S. and SDSU was likewise tremendous, and is most sincerely appreciated and will not be soon forgotten by any of us. This author, for one, is already looking forward to visiting the Refuge again soon. Hopefully, this paper will stimulate not only my five previous traveling companions, but other individuals as well, to sign up and participate in the next MHS field trip to South Dakota's beautiful Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

It didn't take long to ascertain that our mysterious frog was, in fact, Bufo cognatus, the Great Plains Toad. What was really amusing, however, was the persistence demonstrated by these obviously male toads in achieving their goal of finding a mate. If approached with anything resembling reasonable care, the calling behavior of individual toads could be easily observed from a distance of only inches away.

The extent to which their vocal sacs could be expanded was amazing to see, as when fully inflated these sacs protruded well beyond the tip of the animal's snout, often flipping up and vibrating above the level of the top of the head. Intensely calling individuals would continue to call even when picked up, feeling for all intents and purposes like the buzzing of a spring loaded wind-up toy when held in the hand. It was quite some time before everyone tired of this display, and even then we had to linger on the roadside a little longer; listening to the song of the toads and enjoying, the by this time, starry night.

List of Amphibians and Reptiles Recorded from the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Brown County South Dakota.

May 26-29, 1995.

Awakening early Monday moming, after again having slept in the Interpretive Center, it was decided to have a real breakfast at the cafe in Houghton before beginning the last herpetological excursions of this field trip. While waiting for our food the restaurants proprietor, having apparently overheard our generally I1snakeyll conversation, asked if we had seen any "blow snakes" which he said were relatively common nearby. Unfortunately, time constraints did not allow us to investigate the area he specified for this species, which we can only assumes is one of the Hognose Snakes of the genus Heterodon. Instead, the first part of the moming was spent searching yet another section of the Refuge's abandoned railroad line, although without much success finding little of note other then the half eaten carcass of a Plains Garter Snake. Later in the morning we examined a flooded area along a tributary river finding the final two species of the trip; a small sub adult Common Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpent ina, and some Northern Leopard Frogs, Rana pipiens.

Bufo cognatus Bufo hemiopluys Pseudacris triseriata Rana pipiens Chelydra s",pentina Chrysemys picra Eumeces seplentrionalis Storeria occipitomaculata Thaln/taphis radix

Great Plains Toad Canadian Toad Western Chorus Frog Northern Leopard Frog Common Snapping Turtle Painted Turtle Prairie Skink Red-bellied Snake Plains Garter Snake

Literature Cited: Conant, Roger and Collins, Joseph T. 1991. A Field Guide to Reptiles alld Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America. 3rd ed. Houghton Mifflin Co. Boston, MA. 450pp. 00000000000000

12

MRS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Aug. 8-13, 1995 Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles Annual Meeting. Boone, NC. 'Contact Dr. Wayne Van Devender, Dept. of Bio!., Appalachian States Univ., Boone, NC 28608 (704) 262-2665.

Aug. 12, 1995 MHS Hands On Event - Animal Humane Society of Hennepin County Annual Open House, 9:30am - 3:30pm. 845 Meadow Lane N., Golden Valley, MN (612) 522-4325. For more information Contact: Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845.

Aug. 19, 1995 Annual MHS Picnic. 9am - 9pm. Locke Park, 7100 University Ave., Fridley, MN. For further information Contact: Randy Blasus (612) 925-4237.

Aug. 19-20, 1995 National Reptile Breeders' Expo. Twin Towers Hotel & Convention Center.

Orlando, FL. Contact: Wayne Hill, P.O. Box 3277, Winter Haven, FL 33885 (813) 294-2235.

Sept. 16-17, 1995 Mid-Atlantic Reptile Show. Baltimore, MD. Contact: Tim Hoen, c/o Maryland Herp. Soc., 2643 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218-4590 (410) 557-6879 or 235-6116.

Oct. 20-22, 1995 Midwest Herpetological Symposium. Clarion Hotel O'Hare. Rosemont, lL. Contact: Chicago Herp. Soc. - Midwest Symposium, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago, lL 60614 (312) 281-1800.

19-20

THE LARGEST REPTILE MEETING IN THE WORLD! fOR MORE INFORMATION c/o

C~M(al

CONTACT: WGyn! Hill florida- Help Society

P.O. BOl 32n Winle! Haven. florida J3aS1 (813)

mm5

AIRLINE DISCOUNT-DELTA CALL 1-800 241-6760 I FILE NXD1455 DELTA SHIPS MORE REPTILES THAN ANY OTHER AIR LINES; LET'S SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT USI HOTELS: TWIN TOWERS-l 800 327-2110 HOLIDAY INN - 1800 327-1364 PRE-REGISTER: SEND $10 PER PERSON & NAME OF PERSON TO: BREEDERS'EXPO P.O. BOX 3277 WINTER HAVEN FL. 33885

13

MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Board Meeting Highlights

Treasurer's Report

By Randy Blasus, Recording Secretary

Prepared by Marilyn Brooks, MHS Trea,urer

The monthly meeting of the MHS Board of Directors was conducted on July 8th at Gary Ash', home. A quorum was present. The board took the following action: We are currently planning to host the Midwest Herp Symposium in 1997.

Barb Radanke solicited a donation of an easel for Hands-On events.

We will begin exchanging newsletters with the Pittsburgh Rerp Society.

MHS will be purchasing a set of Jim Gerholdl's new books for the library.

We may be performing the survey in Sand Lake Refuge (South Dakota) again next year.

Sean Hewitt will be taking over the Education Chair position; Dav Lydon will be his assistant.

The MHS Picnic now has an annual budget of $100.

Various items discussed and tabled were: organizing a group trip to Reptile Gardens, an annual show at the Bell Museum, painting a panel on the Washington Avenue Bridge, via our student organization chapter.

Presented and accepted were: Treasurer's Report, Membership Report and Board Meeting Minutes.

Beginning Checkb(xlk Balance: Income: Membership Raffle Sales Donation Library Fines Other Total Income:

465.53

Expense: Newsletter Misc PrintJPost Program Library Books Supplies Refreshments Other Total Expense:

July Raffle Donors Randy Blasus Marilyn Brooks Jon Peterson Karin Rea

300.00 42.75 78.36 38.66 2.00 4.12

Rubber Snakes Reptile Pogs Mini Loin-cloth Turtle Plate

463.00 167.75 100.00 34.15 15.00 779.90

Net IncomelLoss:

(314.37)

Ending Checkbook Balance:

2,560.36

Dedicated Funds: Funds Available:

1,736.66 823.70

ANIMALIA EXOTICA, INC

Revenue generated by raffle ticket sales help finance a variety of society functions, including the MRS Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Fund.

Congratulations to all the winners, and thanks to everyone who donated items andlor purchased raffle tickets.

Breed", OWl1ed & Operated

Handfed Baby Birds Reptiles, Other Exotics

882路0337 1939 W. Burnsville Pl<wy Burnsville, MN 55337

Plains Reptile P.O. Box 5818

(701) 235-7263

~~

14

MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

Classified Ads 1.0.0 = male, 0.1.0 = female, 0.0.1 = unsexed c.b. = captive bred, o.b.o. = or best offer 1994 C.B. SNAKES - Ball Python, "Bessett Bloodline" $50. Baird's Rat Snake $40. Normal Corn Snake $20. "Okeetee" Corn $25. Call the Exotic Dead Corner (612) 545-5127.

For Sale 0.0.2 Armadillo Lizards. $25 for both. Call Dean (612) 566-9004.

GREAT VALLEY SERPENTARIUM, a private museum and breeding facility offering a wide selection of c.b. colubrids, boids and lizards. Open to the public. Write or fax for free price-list. Great Valiey Serpentarium, 2379 Maggio Circle, Unit C Lodi, CA 95240, (209) 369-7737, Fax (209) 3697737.

Mice and Rats. Call Little Critters (612) 421-0097 1995 c.b. Boids; Hog Island Boas from exceptional adults, $325. Brazilian Rainbow Boas from iridescent orange adults, $225. Columbian Rainbow Boas from iridescen~ bigh contrast adults, $75. Unrelated pairs available. Can deliver to Twin Cities. Call Mark Wendling (319) 857-4787.

Wanted

HERP CLASSIFIED (formerly Fauna Classifieds).

Monthly classified for herpetofauna, food, supplies, literature, societies, much more .... Excellent infonnation source, worldwide circulation, publ. since 1983. Send.32 stamp for sample. $14/year, $26/2 years, 1st class. MCNisa. Great Valley Serpentarium, 2379 Maggio Circle, Unit C Lodi, CA 95240, (209) 369-7737, Fax (209) 369-7737..

ALL THE SHED SNAKE SKINS IN THE WORLD, Always, to use at hands-on programs to give to kids.

Bob Duerr (612) 541-0362.

Herp related news clippings, original articles, artwork, cartoons, etc. for publication in the MHS Newsletter. Authors and artists will receive compensation in the form of volunteer hrs, good towards one "priceless" MHS coffee mug. Send submissions to: MN Herp. Soc.! Editor, clo Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church SI. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104.

1.1.0 Colombian Boas, adult $150 ea. 1.1.0 albino corns $35 ea. 1.1.0 Burmese Pythons best offer.

Call Mark (715) 262-3158.

African Spurred Tortoises (sulcata), variety of sizes.

Also Leopard Tortoises, c.b. hatchlings to adults.

Call Mark Domaka (612) 822-7996.

Looking for current & back issues of herp related magazines, symposia, journals & newsletters from around tbe world: U.S., England, Europe, Australia, Africa, etc. Call Joel (814) 724-8351, PA.

1995 HERPETOLOGICAL DIRECTORY. Valuable info source containing private & commercial breeders, wholesalers, foreign exporters, US/foreign societies, food sources, supplies, publications, more ..... $15.

MCNisa. Great Valley Serpentarium, 2379 Maggio Circle, Unit C Lodi, CA 95240, (209) 369-7737, Fax (209) 369-7737.

Miscellaneous BREEDING INVENTORY SURVEY: Everyone keeping live reptiles and amphibians is asked to coniribute to this annual report. Please submit the following info current Jan. 1st of each year: (1) Inventory of collection, list numbers and sex, (2) list of 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 info to: Frank Slavens, P.O. Box 30744, Seattie, WA 98103. Fax: (206) 546-2912.

Solomon Island Boas, Candoia carinata paulsoni, c.b. subadults, feeding well on dead mice, $75-175.

Neonates born 114/95. Call Steph Porter (612) 6902589.

"Animal TRACKS" since 1986 - Complete animal management software for managing personal animal collections or field notes for berpslbirds/marnmals.

IBM compatible. Full program $100. Working demo $10, deductible with purchase. For info or to order contact: Frank Slavens, P.O. Box 30744, Seattle, WA 98103, (206) 542-6751, fax (206) 5462912.

SEA TURTLE SURVIVAL LEAGUE, announces its' line of eco-promoting sea turtle merchandise, for a free catalog write: Sea Turtle Survival League, P.O. Box 2866, Gainesville, FL 32602-2866 or call (800) 678-7853.

15

MHS Newsletter Volume XV Number 7

MHS Rodent Sales

MHS Merchandise

Mice: pinkies $6.00 dozen fuzzies $6.00 dozen adults $9.00 dozen

MRS offers an assortmcnt of herp rclated salcs itcms including; books, magazines. posters, t-shirts, notecards, buttons, stickers, decals, and patches.

Look for the merchandise sales area at the far right side of the meeting room. Transactions can be handled before the meeting, during the break, or after the meeting as time pennits. Selected items also available for purchase by mail order (see below).

Rats:

pups adults

$10.00 dozen $12.00 six $24.00 dozen

For pickup at monthly meetings only. Orders must be placed at least one week in advance of date of meeting at which frozen rodents are to be delivered.

Phice orders with Terry Scheiber (612) 440-7482.

MRS Painted Turtle Logo (blue on white)

WE HAVE A GREAT SELECTION OF CAPTIVE BRED HERPS.

stickers, decals, and patches $1.50 each postpaid

CALL FORA COMPLETE LISTING!

JOHN & RUTH MELTZER (612) 263-7880

Treefrog Notecards

STALE ERIC THISS (612) 470-5008 FAX (612) 470-5013

464 Se_ond Street· Excelsior, MN 55331

• Reptiles' Amphibians -Invertebrates' Small Mammals· Fish' Birds' Complete line of Cages, Food, Books & Supplies for ALL Animals

&

(above design on light green stock) $3.00 per package postpaid

All proceeds from MRS rodent and merchandise sales go toward the operating costs of the society such as; speaker fees, library purchases, charitable donations, etc.

The MRS is a completely volunteer rUIl, non~profit organization.

2363 University Ave. W., SI. Paul, MN 55114 (612) 647-4479

16

CLASSIFIED AD INSTRUCTIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members.

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 one week before the general meeting.

NON MEMBER & EXPANDED SIZE ADS: Line ads:$.10 per word.

Business Cards: $5.00 per month.

Three or more months One month only $7.50 per month Quarter page ads: $10.00 per month Half page ads: $20.00 per month $15.00 per month Full page ads: $40.00 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, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, MN 55455.

MEMBERSHIP AND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM r

.

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

\

NAME(S) _____________________________________________________________ ADDRESS________________________________________________________________ CITY ____________________________ PHONE ____________________________

STA1E ________

ZIP CODE

LIST IN MHS DIRECTORY?

YES

NO ____

DA1E OF BIRTH ____________

DRIVERLIC#

HERPRELA1EDINTERESTS: ______________________________________________________

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP? MEMBERSHIP LEVEL?

NEW ____ RENEWAL ____ ____SUSTAINING ..... $60.00

...----lNSTlTUTION .... $25.00

____CONTRIBUTING ..... S30.00

____.DBASIC .... $15.00

Are you currently (or will be) a University of Minnesota student? _ _ (check if yes) HOW DID YOU HEAR OF MHS7 __________________________________________________

NewDesign Bull Snake T-Shirts ($14.00 each includes postage) SMALL_

Indicate how many of each size lvIEDIUM_

LARGE___

X-LARGE___ XX-LARGE___

Please enclose payment. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE 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

Non-Profit Rate U. S. Postage

PAID

HERPETOLOGICAL

Mp!s. Ml'l.. ,:. Pennit No. 2275 II--_ _ _ _ _-...!.'J="='.~.

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

ADDRESS CORREC1l0N REQUESTED

+

+ 1174 12/99 G

Attn: NHS Recording Secretary 3224 Idaho Avenue S St. Louis Park, NN 55426

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+ DELIVER BY JULY 26, 1995