MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

NEWSLE11ER Vol. 18 No.3 MARCH 1998

MINNESOT A HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

March 1998

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

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

MHS Board of Directors President Vice president Recording Secretary Membership Secretary Treasurer Newsletter Editor Member at Large Member at Large Member at Large Member at Large Member at Large

George Richard Barbara Radanke BruceHaig Amy Anderson Marilyn B1asus NancyHaig Fred Bosman Laurie Grassel Gordon Merck Janell Osborn, D.V.M. Sarah Richard

(612) 639-6368 (612) 291-1132 (612) 434-8684 (612) 922-4066 (612) 925-4237 (612) 434-8684 (612) 476-0306 (612) 428-4625 (612) 531-8256 (612) 599-5476 (612) 639-6326

Herp Assistance Specific questions concerning amphibians and reptile aIe best amwered by contacting the following individuals. Please be reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.

Amphibians Greg K vanbeek John Meltzer

Chameleons Vern & Laurie Grassel

Lizards Nancy Haig Bill Moss

(612) 388-0305 (612) 263-7880

(612) 434-8684

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

Large Boas and Pythons Tina Cisewski (612) 856-2865

Terrestrial Turtles Fred Bosman John Levell

Special Committees:

(612) 476-0306 (507) 467-3076

Amphibians and reptiles in Minnesota Greg Kvanbeek (612) 388-0305 John Moriarty (612) 482-8109

Crocodilians Jeff Lang

other snakes Jeff LeClere John Meltzer

Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash John Levell

(701) 772-0227

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

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

Adoption Chair Sarah Richard

Education Chair UP NORTH (Bemidji) (612) 639-6326 Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845 Jeff Korbel (218) 586-2588

Snakebite Emergency Hennepin Co. Regional Poison Center (612) 347 - 3141

MHS Voice Mail (612) 624 - 7065 E-mail: MinnHerps@ao1.com Internet http://www.onrampinc.net/mhs/

The :t-.1innesota Herpetological Society Newsletter is published monthly by the Minnesota Herpetological Society to provide its members with

(

Minnesota Poison Control System Local: (612) 221-2113 Out of State: (800) 222 - 1222 infonnation concerning the society's activities and a media for "

exchanging informatioIlt opinions and resources. Printed on recycled paper.

© Copyright .Minnesota Herpetological Society 1998. Contents may be reproduced for non-profit use prOVided that all material is reproduced without change and proper credit is given authors and the MHS Newsletter citing; volume, number, and date.

MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Numher 3

NEWS, NOTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Upcoming Meeting Highlights The Vice-President' s Report By Barb Buzicky

April Meeting: Wisconsin Herps

Guest Speaker: Bob Hay Wisconsin DNR

The speaker for this meeting is Bob Hay from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. He will be talking about the herps of Wisconsin. He was at the Midwest last fall if anyone stopped to chat with him. It was good to meet him. The Midwest's are great opportunities to meet people you only read about. But, getting back to the speaker, I am sure that he will have many interesting animals to talk to us about along with what Wisconsin is working on for projects.

I want to just mention some of the next speakers and topics that I am confirming at this time. In May, the meeting will be one week later (May 8), to parallel the Turtle Conference on the University of

. Minnesota's St. Paul campus that week. If you have any questions about it, contact John Moriarty. I don't have information about it so I don't know if it is open to the public. We will be having a panel of speakers from that conference join us for our general MHS meeting to talk about turtles. There will be a short agenda to focus and relay information on what is happening in the field, but after that, the floor will be open for discussion. This is one you don't want to miss!

I have a speaker from Sweden coming in July to talk about tortoises. Further, I have a huge surprise for everyone, I am getting Harry Greene to come and speak to us along with an autograph and book sale session on his most recent book about snakes. Watch for announcements in future newsletters.

I have another speaker coming to talk about his trip to Africa, but I don't want to mention any names at this time, as it is not firm yet Some other topics for speakers I am working on include: sea snakes, crocodilians, captive breeding of snakes, geckos, and many more. Keep your eyes peeled!!!

There are some exciting events coming up with the MHS including some field trips that are in the planning stage. We'll see you at the next meeting!!!! BAB

Date: April 3,1998 Location: Borlaug Hall, Room 335, U ofM. St. Paul Campus 7:00pm

POSSIBLE FIELD TRIP!

The Minnesota Zoo "FROGS!"

A new exhibit showcasing over 60 species of frogs, and originating from Chicago's Shedd Aquarium.

Runs from March 14 through Labor Day, Sept. 7, 1998. For information call 432-9000 or

WW'\V.rnnzoo.com

SPRING IS ALMOST HERE!

Time to start marking your calendars for spring events:

Frog and Toad Survey Minnesota Frog Watch will be holding training sessions and creating new routes for the 1998 session. Contact John Moriarty (612) 476-4662 for further information. The Twin Cities training is on March 26.

Seasons in Hennepin Parks

Children '8 programs­

March 21, Saturday - Talking Turtles. Age 6+

April 4, Saturday - Stupendous Snakes. Age 6+

April 23, Thursday - Counting Frogs in the Dark, MN Frog Watch andMHS!

April 26, Sunday- Turtles Alive! Ages 7+

April26, Sunday - Talk with the Turtles

April 28, Tuesday - Minnesota Frog Survey. Age 8+

May 25, Monday-Memorial Day­The Deformed Frog Issue. Ages 8+

Contact the Hennepin Parks Program Information line 559-6721 for more information and to register for these and other sessions.

MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

NEWS, NOTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Presidential Pabulum By George Richard - MHS President

1his is one of those easy columns I love to write. Since the "Annual Awarding of the Mugs" takes place at the next general meeting I got to compile the hours that the committee heads had tracked all year. Since Sean has written on the subject I'll just touch on the numbers in comparison to the preceding year.

In 1996, 125 individuals volunteered at various MHS events, in 1997 there were 122 volunteers. In 96 we volunteered a total of 4,374 hours, in 97 4,885 up 511 hours. The largest areas of activity in 1996 were Renfest (2,009) Education (1,003) and Board duties (264), In 1997 we added the Midwest Symposium (1,968 hrs) Renfest was down (1,180) then Education (753) and board duties at 313. As you can see over all there was an increase in hours partially due to the Midwest Symposium, the average hours per volunteer also increased from 34.9 to 40.

It is with great pleasure I announce the MHS Volunteers:

George Germann, Brian Ingebretson, JOSie Rea, Siri Rea, Jim Baker, Nina Katayama, Darryl Sheldon, Gary Ash, Howard Hommes, Jeff Anderson, Ashley Backer, Rebecca Barnish, Janna Grassel, Caroline Hefferman, Marlo Jack, Shannon Menke, Evan Morris, Dylan Olson, Lynn Paiter, Melissa Ring, Nicole Ring, Jayde Seifert, Debbie Zimprich, Chris Anderson, Judy Brumfield, Caleb Crosby, Laura Kwong, Ann Porwell, Brad Wesley, Sandy Wesley, Michael Howard, Alex Larson, Gina Boots, Dave Boron, Corina Caponi, Nicole

Cisewiski, Marcus Rollins, Lisa Staats, Sally Brewer, Vern Grassel.

Receiving mugs - Volunteers of 10 hours or more:

Alan Kwong, Alyssa Boelter, Amanda Wold, Amy Jo Forslund, Andrea Braucks, Anna Roedler, Barb Radanke, Beau Larson, Bill Moss, Bruce Haig, Bryan Edmonston, Bryn Forstner, Cory Cisewiski, Dalton Larson, Dennis Daly, Derek U1veness, Domonique U1veness, Donna Calander, Donna Gaunt, Doris Wahl, Ellen Heck, Eric Thiss, Franke Forstner, Fred Bosman, George Richard, Glenn Jacobsen, Gordon Merck, Greg Kvanbeck, Ingrid Edstrom, James Rea, Jan Larson, Janel Osborn, Jeff Cisewiski Jeff LeClere, Jim Gerholdt, Jim Hoffman, Jody Statz, John Levell, John Moriarty, Julie Beauvais, Justin Baker, Karin Rea, Kathy Boron, Keith Tucker, Laurie Grassel, Lindsey Brice, Liz Bosman, Liz Bowlds, Marilyn Blasus, Mark Schmidtke, Mark Webber, Meenu Voss, Megan Strand, Merle Larson, Michael Gaunt, Michelle Hewitt, Mike Backer, Miles Larson, Mindy Elmer, Nancy Haig, Nancy Hakomaki, Neil Kwong, Randy Blasus, Roger Statz, Sarah Richard, Scott Larson, Sean Hewitt, Sean Menke, Shelly Baker, Stephanie Forstner, Tina Cisewiski, Tom Bliese, Virginia Larson, Zach Strand.

To each and everyone of you, Thanks and Well done!!

George W. Richard

2

March's "Critter of the Month"

Julie Peterson Ball Python Python regills

Kristin Schouweiler Com Snake Elapll£ guttata

Jeff LeCere & Noah Anderson Bullsnakes Pitllophis catenifer

Glen Jacobsen Baby Leopard Tortoises

Geocllelone pardalis

Gordon Merck Baby Bullsnake Pi tuophis catenifer

Joy Nordquist Supermodel Steve

Marine Toad Bllfo marinus

Raffle Donors Caitlin Moriarty Care sheets Camp Snoopy Tickets MN DNR "Wildlife in Minnesota" Declining Amphs Frog Calendar

Help A Hapless Herp 1 Three-toed Box Turtle 2 Iguanas

a total of 3 animals found good homes

Still needing a home:

5 Iguanas 2 Burmese Pythons 1 Painted Turtle 1 Spectacled Caiman

Refreshments

"Not Necessary but Nice" We are still looking for someone

to organize the refreshments at the General Meeting. If you are interested in helping out, contact George Richard.

MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

GENERAL MEETING REVIEW Australia in 40 days Speaker: Dan Nedrulo

Dan Nedrulo is a free lance biologist from Wisconsin working primarily with environmental education all over the mid-west. He went to Australia last year with his roommate, Kevin Edge, supposedly to visit his sister who had recently moved there. I say" supposedly" because his sister was not mentioned once in his fascinating and well-illustrated description of his and Kevin's exploration of the East Coast of Australia. Oh well, any excuse for a trip like this one is a good excuse.

They landed in Sidney after the long flight from the U.S. where other tourists mistook Dan for a native Australian. This may have been a good omen because they seem to have fit in well with the local people and wild life during their entire 40 days of exploration.

From Sidney, they flew to Cairns in the north and took a train to Kuranda, the closest rainforest they could reach. They found crocodile skin belts and cane toad bags in various sizes for sale. Might not be good for the crocodiles but it sounds like a great use for cane toads. Water dragons were common in Kuranda and they found their first elapid there, a red bellied black snake. They also found a carpet python while looking at platypus. They toured the Atherton Tablelands south of Cairns looking for herps and soaking in the scenery and visited "Wild World'" to see the animals they had not been able to find in their natural settings. They saw and photographed the huge variety of herps and birds and were allowed "behind the scenes" to take more photos.

They continued down the coast to Magnetic Island where they photographed their first monitor while being chewed on by ants. They later learned that the ants taste sweet and they could have eaten them in revenge but declined to return and try it.

After 10 days, they arrived in Youngula Natural History Park where the Kookaburra birds would steal sandwiches right out of your hands if you were not careful. Dan got some great shots of lace monitors and a pink tongued skink there as well as photos of the unbelievably vividly colored and bold birds.

They continued down the coast the Sidney ZOo where they got some more great shots of beautiful herps. They then took a short flight to the island of Tasmania where they found a blotched blue tongued skink and had a wombat come so close Dan couldn't focus the camera on it.

After Tasmania, they had just a few days more of photos and scenery in southern Australia before returning home to rest up from the trip.

3

By Bruce Haig Recording Secretary

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MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

VITA-MORTEM REPORT AMedical/EducationReport

Well, March is here and it seems to be coming in like a mad Retic, but - El Nino (they say) is causing spring to come early -even in the marnmal reproduction kingdom.

The Tortoises are hatching, as are the Boas piling; and the iguanas are getting edgy, territorial, and/or stopped up with eggs -watch for abdominal enlargement in females. It is prime calcium dumping time in the reptile world; but be careful -moderate; too much calcium can also cause problems by accumulating in the kidneys.

For strict herbivores such as iguanas and some skinks, one can offer a good pellet food (preferably no animal proteins -amino acids DO know the difference!) always available (may help for that time you want to leave town for a day or two also). If you are into salads, try one with mustard greens, turnip greens, parsley, some DARK FANCY lettuce, spinach, celery stems and leaves, broccoli (if you eat broccoli) SIEMS and LEA YES only -the parts you normally throwaway (the flowers are like potato chips with phosphorus in place of fats). A few thawed frozen vegetables from a mixture can be added (green beans, peas, lima beans, corn, carrots, etc.). Add a favorite fruit on top, sprinkle with (powdered) calcium (ie. Repti-cal, oyster shell - ask Jake, or shave a cuttlebone from your local pet store), feed fresh at least every other day. Daily fresh salad is good for the subadults. For females in season (with eggs) you can add some cactus pads, especiaily just prior to and right after egg laying (Ca:Ph ratio is 20:1, I've been told).

This supplement has also been advocated for tortoises and any (including occasional) herb eaters (like dragons and ground skinks) that need a calcium/phosphorus ratio supplement - crickets alone are about 1:16 in phosphorous' favor. Calcium only needs to be added 1-2 times per week with the salad diet; not at all if they eat the cactus (and I hear most love it). Add a UVB light and plenty of water (50-70% humidity and a bathing size water bowl) with 82-85-degree base temp and 95-105 degree hot spot for 12-14hrs per day. Temps at night can drop to 75 degrees, but should raise to 85 for eating.

On the mortem side (vita=alive, morteml>ad) 4 iguanas were euthanized this past month and 2 private collector's pets were necropsied after home deaths.

The first iguana was a juvenile female waiting for adoption that was attacked by a juvenile male. Normally 1 male can be housed with several females, especially juveniles, but this one picked 1 mate and attacked the other prospect. She was found the next morning with the full distal humorous protruding almost perpendicular to the leg. Probably fixable, but she was number 17.

The next three were from a severe overabundance in the surrender deparbnent. The first was a male with hind limb paresis (couldn' t/ wouldn't move his hind legs much) This male had multiple broken bones, some older than others. There was no evidence that this came from a calcium deficiency although husbandry is usually a complicating factor. His tail was broken fairly close to the base - must have had a really bad day at some point.

4

by Dr. Janell Osborn (

For those of you with young iguanas, be aware that hindlimb paresis is often an indicator of severe metabolic problems. Once the little one begins to bloat, the nerves to the second hall of the bodies are starting to shut down and food begins to rot in the gut. Calcium is necessary not only for good bone growth, but also for good muscle contraction (eg. the heart) and normal nerve conduction. This condition can sometimes be reversed, but it is much less work and expense to catch it prior to the point of bloat. Phase one of herpetology is captive propagation; phase two is longevity of the offspring. It was the occasional pet iguana that lived past one year - it's not surprising the public tends to think of iguanas as small, short- i. lived lizards when in fact they can \ go 15-20 years and get BIG!

One of the most wonderful benefits of belonging to MHS is being able to talk to fellow hobbyists about what works and what hasn't - take advantage of this benefit.

The other two iguanas euthanized were also in less condition than the remaining 13 so were pulled to make room for more. George Richard is compiling a computer based anatomy session from some of these specimens.

There are still iguanas for adoption -including one neutered male; stitches are out. Ask/call Sarah Richard to adopt any of these homeless.

-Have a merry March! Adieu,

Janell Osborn, DVM

(

MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

SURVEY SAYS-[Membership Survey 3/6;98]

Most members do not have an opinion about the Minnesota Herpetological Society and its functions.

March 6, 1998 was the evening of the Annual Meeting of the Minnesota Herpetological Society. Along with the election of the next Board of Directors, members were asked to fill out a survey and express their opinions concerning various aspects of the society. 96 ballots were counted for election results and 83 surveys were returned.

Actually this a very good return response (about 86 %) and the full results of the survey will be reviewed by the new Board of Directors in the next few months. It is interesting that of the 83 returns, only 43% really stated their opinions concerning the issues. Most people answered the questions concerning type and length of membership. They rated the monthly programs for their top five and enthusiastically (68%) revealed what they expected from their membership. Many had suggestions for future programs and the range of topics was very iInpressive.

Participation in events reveals: 95% attend the Genereal Meetings

(usually 8 to 12 a year) 63% attended the Midwest Symposium 60% came to the White Snake Sale 38% worked at the Renaissance Festival (Como Cottage Hands­On) 32% attended the Holiday Banquet 27% participated in Regular Hands-Ons and only 16% went to the Picnic.

When asked directly about future activities for the MHS or changes they would like to see in the General Meeting and current programs, most (71 %) opted for no response. 7% felt no need for changes and 22% had suggestions.

Questions that were directed toward specific areas such as the library, sales at meeting, adoptions, hands-ons, the newsletter or critter of the month had 43% with no response, 14% said they wouldn't change anything and 43% suggested a few changes. When asked whether refreshments were necessary at the General Meeting, only 11 % failed to respond, 44 % said yes while 45% said no. The most common answer was II No, but it's nice to have!"

The new Board will have the fun of analyzing the various comments directed towards our society's functions. A copy of the survey results will be placed in the library's MHS Members Handbook for those who wish to read the comments first hand.

By looking only at the numbers you could say the majority of members present at the Annual Meeting had no opinion about the society. This is not really true. Most people filling out the survey answered at least one or two of the major questions. They had a definite opinion of what they liked or didn't like and did not hesitate to state it.

I would like to thank all 83 respondents for their time and effort in filling out the survey. You have given the Board a valuable tool for future decisions.

5

What would you change about the Newsletter?

"Rotate editors every other month, mail it out sooner, the newsletter has changed fonnat so much, proper grammer and proper spelling {sic], newsletter quality inconsistent, list events (Hands­ons, etc.) as early as possible in the newsletter, different cover ... "

The mailing schedule for the newsletter is two weeks after the General Meeting. The new Board will discuss this and the other issues. The cover must conform to the bulk mailing format and identify the publication. The society's logo and state drawing are used to identify us as the Minnesota Herpetological Society. Both drawings are from past MHS members and are ours to use in the promotion of the society. If someone wishes to design a new cover I will run it in the newsletter for the readers to review.

"More meaningful articles, This has become scrawny, liven it up a little, more articles, more stuff, more articles like Whit Gibbons, more artwork/graphics, more nudity .... "

This, Dear Readers, is up to you. The MHS newsletter is for its members but it is by its members as well. If you want more in your newsletter then you must contribute to it or find others who are willing to contribute. Original articles and artwork can be sent directly to the MHS Newsletter, c/o The Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church st. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104; or to Nancy Haig, 511 229th Lane NE, East Bethel, MN. 55005. or E­mailed to bruchaig@citilink.com

Nancy Haig, Newsletter Editor

MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

A MOST IMPORTANT PLACE

" ... The loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats ... is the folly our descendents are least likely to forgive us." - E. 0. Wilson (1)

This Earth Day, April 22, we certainly have something to celebrate. Our Society donated $2,250 to the Nature Conservancy to help finance the purchase of the 102-acre Dubray tract (see Preserve Map). Previous issues of the newsletter have discussed this donation (2) and described the location of Weaver Dunes (3). This article addresses the significance of the land acquisition. Although conservation is one of the purposes of our Society, it generally does not involve us on the same personal level, as does husbandry. This case is close to home.

The Weaver Dunes Preserve, about a two-hour drive southeast of the Twin Cities, is "the most important location for Blanding's turtles in the U.S."(4). One can only marvel that we have stewardship over a site of national herpetological value, also ranked by the Conservancy as one of the top ten preserves in the state for critical habitat. In addition to the premier population of Blanding's turtles, six other species of turtles, five of amphibians, and five species of snakes have been surveyed (see list of herpetofauna)(5).

The Dubray tract is the link between the preserve and the wetlands to the west. In late spring the gravid Blanding's turtles stage in Kelly's Pond and similar locations near County Road 84 before crossing to the east. Highway signs are posted to caution motorists. After nesting on the sand prairies, the turtles must

retrace their paths, followed a few months later by the tiny hatchlings. At both seasons you may volunteer to serve as a crossing guard to prevent Dead-On-Road casualties. This species is protected as threatened, requiring a permit for possession. Collecting is prohibited.

At the end of last year Lisa Mueller of the Minnesota Chapter of the Nature Conservancy convinced the Dubray's to sell their property to the Conservancy rather than to a developer. At that time, Randy Bias us, our Society Historian, was working to distribute the funds raised by the Midwest HerpetolOgical Symposium. A beautiful partnership was formed. Now the Conservancy is seeking matching funds. Of course there is much more acreage to be purchased as it goes on the market, and also the cost of maintaining the prairie; plenty of opportunities for stewardship as future Earth Days come along.

Further Reading Wilson, Edward 0. 1994. Naturalist. Washington, D.C.: Island Press/Shearwater Books, p.355.

"Our Dollars at Work," MHS News/etter, Vol. 18, No.2, February 1998, p. 5.

"Weaver Dunes," MHS News/etter, Vol. 17, No.6, June 1997, p. 11.

"Conservancy Protects Turtles, Sand Prairie Near Wabasha," Minnesota Chapter N(~ws, The Nahlre Conseroancy, Winter 1998, p. 1.

Cochran, Philip A. "The Herpetofauna of the Weaver Dunes, Wabasha County, Minnesota," 11le Prairie Naturalist, Vol. 18, No.3, September 1986, pp. 143-150.

6

By James Rea (

Nature Conservancy Field Trips

Turtle Trek I: Weaver Dunes Friday, June 5,1998,4-6 p.m. Call (612) 565-4011 to register, No Fee, limited space.

Using bicycles the participants will first meet at Weaver Landing, and ride to areas on the Preserve where Blanding's turtles are migrating. Learn about the multiple needs of this threatened species from the Conservancy Representative Nancy Falkum.

Turtle Trek II: Weaver Dunes Saturday, June 13, 1998, 4-6 p.m Call (507) 932-3001 to register, No Fee, limited space. .

During this bicycle tour sponsored by Whitewater State Park, participants may assist in the migration of Blanding's turtles from the preserve's wetlands across County Road 84 to their sandy egg-laying nesting sites. Learn more about this threatened species and its habitat needs from State Park and Conservancy naturalists. For adults, and children ages 10 and up.

Late Spring Walk: Weaver Dunes Thursday, June 18, 1998, 3:30-5:30 p.m Call (612) 565-4011 to register, $10.Fee, limited space.

Fourth in a series of seasonal tours, this tour will emphasize the variation in one, very beautiful natural area on earth- Weaver Dunes Preserve. Nancy Falkum, Conservancy Representative will discuss the sand prairie and the protection of the Blanding's turtles on the preserve. Learn more on how you can help protect and preserve our natural heritage for future generations.

Minnesota Chapter News, The Nature ConseroanClj, Winter 1998, p.l0.

I

PRESERVE MAP (Reproduced with modifications

courtesy orthe Nature Conservancy)

McCarthy Lake State Wildlife

Management Area

Kelly's e:., Pond 2J

Dubray Tract

MHS Newsletter Volume 18, Number 3

Weaver Dunes Scientific And Natural Area

D_ I o

Prairie Trees & Brush

N

t MILES

HALFMOON LAKE

I 112

01997 The Nature COrl;ervan~y (revised)

Herpetofauna of Weaver Dunes Including McCarthy Lake WMA and Half Moon Lake

(Adapted from Cochran)

Anurans

American Toad Bufo americanus

Gray treefrog Hyla versicolor

Western chorus frog Pseudacris triseriata

Green frog Rana clamitans

Northern leopard frog Rana pipiens

Turtles

Smooth softshell turtle Apalone mutica

Spiny sofshell turtle Apolne spinifera

Snapping turtle Clielydm serpentina

Western painted turtle Cllnjsemys picta bellii

Blanding's turtle Emydoidea blandingii

Common map turtle Graptemys geographica

False map turtle Graptemys pseudogeograpliica

7

Snakes

Blue racer Coluber constrictor

Western hognose snake Heterodon IUlsicus

Eastern hognose snake Heterodon platirhinos

Bullsnake Pituopllis catenifer

Common garter snake 71Ullllllophis sirtalis

MHS Newsletter Volutlle 18 Number 3

The Herpin' Lifestyle Jamaican Boas: No Problem, mon

Message on my answering machine. January 20, 1998, 5:45 P.M.

"Yeah, Greg, this is Jeff. Since you're leaving for Jamaica tomorrow, uhh, I was wondering if you could bring me back some Jamaican Boas."

Message on Jeff LeClere's answering machine. January 30, 1998, 8:12 P.M.

"Jeff, this is Greg. We just got back from Jamaica a few hours ago. I got you your Jamaican Boas. Here's how it went:

"I guess that Jamaicans don't take much of an interest in their herpetofauna. Most of them insist that there are no snakes in Jamaica. They think that the mongoose, or mongeese, or whatever got' em. As they told me this they would always shake their fist at me. I figured that they didn't much care for herpers, either. Anyway, we had a hard time even finding out where to look. We hired a local guy to drive us around the island, talking to people, trying to find someone who knew about Jamaican boas.

"After four days of this, we found a farmer who told us that he occasionally saw "yellow snakes" on his land. For $75, we could look around, no problem. I paid him, and then he shook his fist at me. Some boys offered to help US look; I had to give each of them $20. Over the course of several hours, they caught six Jamaican boas, and I paid them $50 each. Then they all shook their fists at me, so I bought everyone lunch to settle them down. This cost another $75.

"I didn't have anything to put the snakes in, so we had to find a

place that had some big coolers. Big coolers sure are hard to find in Jamaica. Expensive, too. But for $250, we got six big coolers to put the snakes in. When we got back to the hotel, we had to pay our driver $450 for driving us around for four days. When he shook his fist at me, I figured that I better give him a $20 tip.

"As we lugged the coolers up to our room, one of the hotel employees asked what was in the coolers. I thought it would be neat to show him one of the boas. Bad idea. It latched onto my neck, and sort of made this twisting motion. Jamaican boas have very long, sharp teeth. After I got it off of my neck, it managed to bite me in the chest. I wasn't wearing a shirt. Somehow I got it back into the cooler. Nothing I did would stop the bleeding, so we got a ride to the local hospital, where I got stitches in my chest and neck. Cost me $575. When we got back to the hotel, I was exhausted. All I could think about was sleep. But wait! The hotel manager was in our room, waiting for us. I guess the hotel doesn't allow "pets", least of all snakes, Funny this guy didn't shake his fist at me.

"I was able to find a local guy who was willing to look after my snakes for me for the duration of our stay which, by now was almost over. After I paid him $100, he asked if anyone had shown me the Jamaican handshake. You start by shaking your fist.

"When we got on the bus to head back to the airport, I had to give the driver $50 to let me bring the snakes on the bus. When we checked in at the airport, I had to pay a bribe of $150, plus an extra $175 for shipping. Since I could not

8

by Greg K vanbek

carry six big coolers by myself, a baggage guy went and got one of those big carts for me. I tipped him $10, and we were on our way.

"When we got home, there was a "fish and wildlife" guy waiting for me. He said he knew what was in the coolers. He told me he would need to confiscate them, and arrest me, unless I paid him a $200 "duty" as he called it. As I'm sure you're aware, Jeff 01' buddy, Jamaican boas are II appendix one" I which means I wasn't supposed to have them. So I paid the $200, and then I shook my fist at the guy.

"Anyway, here I am, and the snakes look pretty good. I figure you owe me $2,510. But that's in U.S dollars. Technically, you should pay me in Jamaican dollars, hmmm, let's see I guess $87,850 should cover it.

"By the way, all six are males."

Please note:

In the wuikely event that this is being read by some hwnor impaired individual, let me clarify something: The above story is fictitious. A gag. That means it didn't really happen. I made the whole thing up for the purpose of entertainment (mostly my own). Jeff and I did not conspire to smuggle protected reptiles across international bowldaries.

But Jeff did ask for a map to my II spot".

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MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

SOMETHING YOU CAN DO From: Mary Louise Whitlow [SMTP:rnarylouisew@ernail.rnsn.com]

Please pass this message on to any contacts you have; every letter written to these people will help!

X'cacel is being sold for development to the Melia hotel chain!

X'cacel is the most important green and loggerhead nesting beach on Mexico's Atlantic. It is located approximately 100 Km. south of Cancun, in the tourist corridor Cancun-Tulum. It was the only protected beach in the 120 Krn. tourist corridor. Some of the protected species found in X'cacel's 311 hectares, besides loggerhead and green sea turtles are the boa constrictor, marsh turtle, Creaser's mud turtle, crocodile, Chit, Hoo'loop, mangrove, and subi'n. X'cacel along with the adjoining beaches of Aventuras-DIF and Chemuyil are the most important green and loggerhead nesting beaches in the state of Quintana Roo. However, all 3 of these beaches have been sold to developers by Fideicorniso Caleta de Xeh-ha y del Caribe (FIDECARIBE). The Ecological Group of the Mayab (GEMA) in 1994 proposed officially incorporating X'cacel into the National System of Protected Areas (SINAP) and completed all of the necessary requirements, their request has gone unanswered.

The Management Plan of the Tourist Corridor Cancun-Tulurn (Gob. Fed. 1994a), was signed by the representatives of: conservation groups, sea turtle biologists and representatives of local, state and federal Mexican government. This plan includes the following phrase, "In case of the realization of development projects or exploitation in the zone of X'cacel the following risks to the integrity of the ecosystem and the species in danger of extension that live there, such as marine turtles who depend on these beaches for their reproduction: a) erosion of

dunes b) disturbance of the vegetation that controls the flow of water c) contamination and alterations of the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the beaches d) disturbance of nesting female turtles and their nests e) disturbance caused by the artificial illumination of the beach and adjacent areas f) disturbance caused by noise generated by aquatic activities and g) disturbances in the reef and its platform, potentially able to alter the water flow". The Management Plan recommends that development should not be allowed between the federal highway and the 60 meters isobath, and if the property is to be sold that .the conservation groups who have promoted the protection of the sea turtles and the area are given the right of first refusal.

Sea turtles conservation and research has been carried out over most of the coast of Quintana Roo. However, these three beaches (X'cacel, Chemuyil and Aventuras DIF) have the highest density of nesting activities and therefore have been the main focus of these efforts.

It is public knowledge that the Melia hotel chain of Spain purchased 45 hectares of X'cacel for 2.5 million US dollars. Since pressure has been applied, the governor of the state declared the "Santuario de la tortuga marina X'cacel-X'cacelito", this only proVides protection to. the area from the 60 meter isobath to 100 meters up the beach. This was only a public relations move. The governor has been quoted in the local newspapers as saying that the construction of a tourist resort is not in conflict with the protection of X'cacel.

There is a list of officials to write to and demand that ALL 311 hectares are protected:

9

M. EN e. JULIA CARABIAS LILO (SEMERNAP) PERIFERICO SUR 4209 60 PlSO COL JARDINES DE LA MONTANA MEXICO D. F. 06500 tel. (5) 6280606 , 6280607 and 6280608 FAX (5) 6280609 carabias@Servidor.dgsca.unam.mx

ING. MARIO VILLANUEVA MADRID (Governor of Quintana Roo) CALLE 22 DE ENERO SIN 20 PlSO PALACIO DE GOBIENRO CD. CHETUMAL 77000 MEXICO Tel: (983) 20266 ; Fax (983) 24257

SR. ERNESTO ZEDILLO PONCE DE LEON PRESIDENCIA DE LA REPUBLICA RESIDENCIA PRESIDENCIAL DE LOS PINOS LOMAS VIRREYES MEXICOD. F. FAX (5)548070

LIe. OSCAR ESPINOZA VILLAREAL. SECRETARIA DE TURISMA V. PRESIDENTE MASARIK 178-8 COL. POLANCO, MEXICO D. F.

MELIA MANAGEMENT FOR AMERICA MR. EV AGRIO SANCHEZ FAX: (+1) 305-358.51.66 evagrio.sanchez®Solmelia.es 1000 BRICKELL AVE, SUITE 500 MIAMI, FL. 33131 USA

Melia's FAX at headquarters in Spain: 34 (9) 71 22 44 08 If you have any questions contact GEMA Av. Uxmal24 Sm. 2A Cancun Q. Roo MEXICO Tel (98) 84-69-44 Fax (98) 84-9857 reycarib@cancun.com,mx or Mary Whitlow 3224 Bryn Mawr Dallas, TX 75225-7645 phone: (214) 368-5535 marylouisei'J@msn. com

**There is information about X'cacel on the following web sites: http://www.tortoise.org/act.html http://www.turtles.org/happen.htm & http://www.turtledisaster.org

MHS Newsletter Volume 18, Number 3

MHS HANDS-ONS

The Ophidiophile:

Monty Invades Knott's Camp Snoopy

The Minnesota Herpetological Society was Mall of America at Knott's Camp Snoopy on Saturday, February 21st. Monty the (14ft!) Burmese Python, Shesha the Bearded Dragon, Smiley the Alligator, Ivan the Russian Tortoise and other scaly "friends" all showed up on Saturday.

For those of you who are out­of-state or have never been to the Mall. Mall of America is the

U of M Veterinary Open House.

largest retail outlet in the United States and Knott's Camp Snoopy, a amusement park geared for the younger generation, is in the center of the "megamall". We were surrounded by: the rollercoasier, the amphitheater, theme park games and hundreds and hundreds of people. It was Scout Days that weekend and we, MHS and scaly friends, were there to educate boy and girls scouts (and even some mom's and dad's) in the biodiversity and value of each reptile.

We had several vic .... volunteers for this hands-on and they were: Liz Bosman, Ellen Heck, Gordon Merck; MHS

HANDS-ON CALENDAR

By Sean Hewitt

President George Richard, Sarah Richard; Bill Moss; Michelle Hewitt and Tina Cisewski. A sincere "thank you" from myself and Knott's Camp Snoopy. And speaking of which, I like to thank Patty Anderson and the entire crew at Knott's Camp Snoopy. It was very fun and busy hands-on.

Check out the Calendar of Events for a clairvoyant look at "hands on" events. If anyone is interested, give your Education Coordinator a call or if you are attending the next meeting find myself or any other Board member. We will be glad to help.

Thanks.SPH

MHS's Annual trek to the Small Animal Bldg. (close to Borlaug Hall). Hundreds and hundreds of people show up. A very busy hands-on. Sunday, April 5th, starts l1:00am to 5:00pm

City of Chanassen's Arbor /Earth Day Festival. Bring your MN species (but if you don't have any come anyway). Come and educate the public on Saturday, April

25th, Startsl:00pm to 3:00pm

Scout Fair '98 at the Minnesota State Fair. 10,000 to 15,000 people are excepted. Event starts May 29th, 30th and 31st. MHS will be there Saturday, May 30th.

This event is tentative.

MarketFEST in downtown White Bear Lake. 50,000 people attended last years. White Bear answer to Farmer's Market and State Fair rolled into one. Event starts

June 25th and run though Aug. 13th on Thursdays only. Rain, Shine or Snow. Starts 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Minnesota Renaissance Festival in Shakopee, MN. A historical recreation of life in 1450's. Event starts Aug 15th thru Sept 27th. Weekends and Labor Day only.

Questions? Ask our Renaissance committee ctXhairs Dennis Daly (ph: 331-8606) and Franke Forsnter (ph: 447-5688).

Contact Sean Hewitt (612) 935 - 5845 for further information on Hands-Ons events.

10

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MHS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

M.H.S. BUSINESS

March Board of Directors Meeting By Bruce Haig, Recording Secretary

Treasurer's Report of February 1998

The MHS Board of Directors met March 7, 1998 at the U of M Student Union. A quorum was present.

The first order of business was to verify the election of the members and welcome Amy Anderson, Gordon Merck and Janell Osborn, new members serving their first terms.

The White Pages (MHS member's telephone directory) will be printed and distributed in April. All members as of April's General Meeting will be listed unless they have requested otherwise.

The complete set of current general policies which several have been working on for the last few months was approved as the only current policies of MHS, superceding all previous policies.

A list of open issues from 1997 was circulated and was either decided or future action was recommended.

Sean Hewitt requested that the board clarify some of the policies regarding Hands-Ons. The current policies will be provided to everyone volunteering for Hands-Ons.

Presented and accepted: Recording Secretary Report and Treasurers Report.

Prepared by Marilyn Brooks Blasus

Beginning checkbook balance:

Income: Membership: 330.00 Raffle 0.00 Sales 0.00 Rodent Sales 317.00 Donations 240.00 Fines 0.00 White Snake Sale 1,083.75 CD 2,756.25

Total income:

Expense: Newsletter 250.00 Misc. prt./post. 0.00 Program 0.00 Library 32.45 Supplies 122.39 Refreshments 0.00 Sales costs 3%.10 Donation 7,650.00 Other 0.00

Total Expense: Net income/ (loss)

Ending checkbook balance: Funds allocated to unpaid expenses Funds available

MHS Coming Events

15,926.50

4,727.00

8,450.94 (3,723.94)

12,202.56 200.00

12,002.56

April 3, 1998 MHS General Meeting, Program: Wisconsin Herps, Speaker: Bob Hay, Wisconsin DNR, 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M, st. Paul Campus, 7:00p.m

April 4, 1998 MHS Board of Directors Meeting. Student Union, U of M, St Paul Campus, 7:00p.m

May 8, 1998 MHS General Meeting, Bell Museum, Blanding Turtle Conference June 5, 1998 MHS General Meeting, 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M, St Paul Campus, 7:00p.m. July 10, 1998 MHS General Meeting, 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M, st. Paul Campus, 7:00p.m

July 18, 1998 MHS Picnic, Locke Park,

Hands On Contact Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845 for further information of Hands On events.

11

MRS Newsletter Volume 18 Number 3

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

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

1.0.0 = male, 0.1.0 = female, 0.0.1 = un.sexed, cb = captive bred, obo = or best offer .

Baby Common Boas, c.b. 98,. Shed & fed, $65.00 each. Call Tina (612) 856-2865

Baby Giant Day Geckos, Pltelsuma m. grandis, $25.00 Call Craig 934-7239

0.1.0 Bearded Dragon: June '95 hatch, very healthy, good temperament. $150 or offer. 1.0.0 Girdled Lizard: unknown age, nice small display Iizard. $15. Michael 754-8241

O.O.lBullsnake, Pituophis melanolellcus, cb Sept 3, 1997, feeding on pinkies. $20.00 Contact Gordon Merck (612) 531-8256

Brazilian Rainbow Boas, Epicrates c. cencltria, born 21 November 1997, weII-started babies with pink, purple & orange highlights. $175. Steph Porter (612) 690-25

1.0 adult black ratsnake, $40.; 1.0 adult amenanistic bulisnake, $100.; 1.1 adult amelanistic cornsnakes, $100. Pair; 1.1 adult het. for amelanism cornsnakes, $80. Pair;

1.2 adult Colombian rainbow boas, $300. Trio; 1.2 adult Brazilian rainbow boas, $750. Trio; 1.2 adult Hogg Island boas, $900. Trio; All are proven breeders. 1.2 CB 96 bullsnakes- male is amelanistic, females are uruelated "high yellow" hets, $200. Trio; 1.3 CB 95 Argentine rainbow boas, $600. Group; 0.2 CB 96 Dumeril's boas $600. For both; 0.0.9 Giant Day Geckos, $20. Each. Mark Wendling, (319)- 857 -4787

2 yr. old Red-foot tortoise $150/(obo), 1.1 adult snow corns $200. 1.1 adult ghost corns $200. Call to see what other phases of corns I have for sale, too. Call 1-800- 627- 3529 and have them ask for Marty at (507) 334-0463.

Frozen Rabbits - all sizes. Prices very reasonable- pinkies to adults. Jim Daluge (612) 295-2818

Mice

Rats

MHS Rodent Sales Pinkies Fuzzies Hoppers Adults Sm_ Pups Lg Pups Adults

$6.00 dozen $6.00do~n $7.50 dozen $9.00 dozen $10.00 dz. $15.00 dz. $12.00 six $24.00 dz.

For pick up at monthly meetings only. Orders must be placed at least one week in advance of date of meeting at which the frozen rodents are to be delivered, Place orders with Tina (Rat Girl) Cisewski at (612) 856-2865, All proceeds go toward the operating (osts of the society. The MHS is a (ompletely volunteer run, non-profit organization.

" .. .'

Wanted: Employment looking for a local teenager, Highland or Macalaster­Groveland neighborhood in St. Paul or surrounding area, interested in regular weekly employment assisting with the care of reptile collection. Steph Porter 690-2589

Help with moving: Expecting to move sometime toward the end of March. H you can help please contact Gordon Merck (612) 531-8256

Wanted: A smaIl space, room or shared space with your herps, for my herps. I would take care of my herps & Pay a monthly rent and if you would like, assist in your herp care. H you have the compassion to help with my passion and have some extra space, Please calL Thyha, 824-7522 This is only temporary.

Renaissance Festival Goers

If you want your own costume for Renaissance Festival, contact Michelle Hewitt (935 -5845). Orders taken from now until June. Need to provide all the materials or reimburse me for them. MosUy peasant. Fee based on order, costume quality

English Spot Dutch

Jim'. Rabbit Shack Wher. Spots Are Tops

i. . '. Dr. Janell Oabom, DVM h/-ierpatoculturoIHoUSecslls·

, . (612) ~$9~76. , .--

,

~'" . (', ':'-:" '.

Palish

JIM DALUGE 6700 Jaber Ave. N.E . Monllcollo. MN 55362

(612) 295·2818

12

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VetennBfY Me\:tleine for RepUI!!! ~ .. Am/lhibians

(

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

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

Display Ad Rates: Ad Size per Month 1" page $10.00 Vz page $20.00

full page $40.00 ~

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

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

New Renewal Membershi #

MHS Meeting Location

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA- ST. PAUL CAMPUS

t to Hwy 36

~I tARPEHTEUR {oSnelJing~

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r=======FO~LWE~LL ,-£ ~~

~;;\~OH~RltLUG f3 F.~.I ~ 12J.:=J~

: £77l

~'1?".,r;:::. =:::;)1 . I~

~,\ I rJ1C BUFORD

0 p .... o-.r .-.., I".",;''''", ':""tIp", (p.IoA."9 ... ~« ...... ..,.. ~.Mm .... ,~.

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Meetings are the 1" Friday of the month. RIll. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M SI. Paul Campus Start time: 7:00 p.m. MHS Voicemail: (612) 624 -7065 Internet: http://www.onrampinc.netlmhs/

Membershi lication

T e Check #

Name __________________________________________________________________________________ __

Address _______________________________________________ __

City, _______________________ State Zip ______ _

Phone _______________ email List in MHS Directory? __ Yes __ No

Herp related interests ______________________________________ _

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

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

___ Silver Commercial ($75/yr 2 1/2 pg. ads) ___ Basic Commercial ($25/yr 2 Bus cards)

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

~ '--

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SE,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

.... ~.~

+

+

MHS Library clo Karin Rea 951 Humbolt Avenue

# 1157 Expires 12131/99

WestS!. Paul, MN 55118-1430

POSTMASTER: DATED MATERIAL

+

--'~~

Non-Profit Rate US Postage

PAID Mpls,MN

Permit No. 2275