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N elVsietter of
Minnesota Herpetological •
The S o C 1 e t y
July 2001
Upcoming meeting The Vice-president's Report By Tony Gamble
August General Meeting
Friday, August 3rd , 2001, 7:00 PM Program: Amphibian Population Declines and Their Possible Causes Guest Speaker: Dr. Tim Halliday
Volume 21 Number 7
Anecdotal evidence for amphibian declines was around for several years when conversations at the First World Congress of Herpetology in Canterbury, . England in 1989 spurred scientists into published Dorling Kindersley action. Could the disappearances of the Ha~dbook, "Reptiles and Amphibians" Golden Toad (Buto perig/enes) in Costa (written with television host, Mark Rica, Spotted frogs (Rana pretiosa) in O'Shea). He is also editor (or co-editor) the Pacific Northwest, Gastric-brooding of the following books: "The Senses frogs (Rheobatrachus silus) from and Communication", "Behaviour and Australia, and others, all be related? To Evolution", "The Tinbergen Legacy", get a better handle on this seemingly and "Animal Behavior". global problem, the Species Survival Commission of the World Conservation For more information on declining Unit (IUCN) formed the Declining amph~bian populations check out the Amphibian Populations Taskforce following: (DAPTF). The mission of the DAPTF is to "determine the nature, extent and The Declining Amphibian Populations causes of declines of amphibians Task Force (DAPTF) Home Page throughout the world, and to promote http://www.open.ac.uk/daptf/ means by which declines can be halted or reversed". "Status and Conservation of
Midwestern Amphibians" Edited by Mike Lanoo, Published by the University of Iowa Press.
August's speaker, Dr. Tim Halliday, has been the International Director of DAPTF since 1994. He "Amphibians in Decline: Canadian has been working on Stu~ies of a Global Problem" Edited by amphibians since 1969. Dav!d M. Green, Published by the His earlier studies were on Society for the Study of Amphibians and
the sexual behavior of Reptiles. European newts. He has since worked on mating behavior and sexual competition in European toads, midwife toads and an African treefrog. In the early 1990s he returned to an early interest in
"Tracking the Vanishing Frogs" by Kathryn Phillips, published by St. Martin's Press.
extin~tion. In his talk, he will present an Upcoming Meetings' overview of our current knowledge of . amp~ibian population declines and their September 7th - TBA possible causes. He will also describe the work of the DAPTF.
Dr. Halliday is a professor at the Open University in Milton Keynes, England. He is author of the book, "Sexual strategy ". He co-authored (with Kraig Adler) the excellent Facts on File book "The Encyclopedia of Reptiles' and Amphibians" as well as the recently
1
Board of Directors Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church Street South Eas~ Minneapolis Minnesota 55455-0104 President Bill Moss
[email protected] 651.488.1383 The Minnesota
Vice President Tony Gamble 763.424.2803 S
[email protected] o c • 1
Herpetological e t y
Recording Secretary Julle Beauvais
MemberShip Secretary Nancy Haig
Treasurer Marilyn Blasus
Newsletter Editor Heather Malson
Members at Large Jodi L. Aherns Nancy Hakomaki
[email protected] Heather Ingbretson Melissa Nordos
[email protected] Keith Tucker
Adoption Sarah Richard
Education Jan larson
Committees
Northern Minnesota Jeff Korbel
Library 8eth Girard
Amphibians Greg Kvanbek John Meltzer John MOriarty
Chameleons
Herp Assistance
Vern & Laurie Grassel
Crocodilians Jeff Lang 8111 Moss
Lizards Nancy Haig Heather Matson
Large Boas, Pythons TIna Cisewski
Other Snakes Jeff Leclere John Meltzer
Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash John Levell
Terreslial Turtles Fred 80sman John Levell
612.321.0958 Voice Mail: 612.624.7065
http://www.onrampinc.net/mhs/
763.434.8684 July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
952.925.4237
651.647.3444
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.
612.588.9329 The 651.631.1380 Minnesota Herpetological Society is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization.
Membership is open to all individuals with an interest in amphibians and reptiles. The 763.572.0487 Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter is published monthly to provide its members 612.812.6146 with information concerning the society's activities and a media for exchanging informa-612.321.0958 tion, opinions and resources.
612.232.4152
507.263.4391
218.586.2588
763.691.1650
651.388.0305 763.263.7880 651.482.8109
612.428.8109
701.772.0227 651.488.1383
763.434.8684 612.554.8446
612.856.2865
651.488.6388 763.263.7880
763.753.0218 507.467.3076
763.476.0306 507.467.3076
General Meetings are held at Borlaug Hall, Room 335 on the SI. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota, on the first Friday of each month (unless there is a holiday conflict). The meeting starts at 7:00pm and lasts about three hours. Please check the MHS Voice mail for changes in schedules or cancellations.
Submissions to the Newsletter Ads or Notices must be submitted no later than the night of the General Meeting to be included in the next issue. Longer articles will be printed as time and space allows. All business cards are run for $5/month. Items may be sent to:
The Minnesota Herpetological Society Attn: Newsletter Editor Bell museum of Natural History 10 Church SI. SE. Minneapolis, MN 55455.0104
Snake Bite EXnergency Hennepin Regional Poison Center 800.764.7661
Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society 2001. Contents may be reproduced for non-profit use provided that all material is reproduced without change and proper credit is given author and the MHS Newsletter citing:
volume, number and date.
Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter
News, Notes & Help a Hapless
Herp
18 Animals were adopted at the July meeting:
3 Iguanas 1 Nile Monitor 7 Anoles 1 Water Dragon 1 Painted turtle 2 Caimen 1 Corn Snake 1 Ball Python 1 California King
Still Available: 5 Iguanas 3 Alligators 2 Burmese Python 1 Nile Monitor 1 Bearded Dragon
If you are interesting in adopting any of these animals please contact Sarah Richard at 612.781.9544
Critter of the Month Newsletter Brief
A basic herpetofaunal survey of Lake Tony Gamble Maria State Park was performed by
Kenyan sand boa twenty members of the Minnesota Gongylophis colubrinus loveridgei Herpetological Society from the
evening of Friday, June 8 to the Bruce Haig evening of Sunday, June 10, 2001. A
Children's python total of 178 survey hours were logged Antaresia childreni by the volunteers during which 101
animals were recorded plus 12 cita-Sara Knez tions of anuran breeding choruses
Cuban tree frog which together comprised 14 different Osteopilus septentrionalis species. Records for the survey
include the following; a Blanding's Sean Hewitt Turtle that may be of record size plus
Egg eating snake Blue-spotted Salamander, Cope's Oasypeltis scabra Gray Treefrog, Northern Green Frog
and Eastern Snapping Turtle that are Uli Sacchet all new, updated or additional county
Children's python records (Oldfield and Moriarty, 1994). Antaresia childreni (continued on pg. 6 )
Victoria's Secret- By Heather Ingbretson
My husband still doesn't know how I . to receive a very expensive pair of new noticed a strange-looking fecal and it Leopard Gecko's to add to their collec- was a bit smellier than usual. The
convinced him to name our Leopard tion. I had been to their house to see owner felt he'd rather be safe than sorry Gecko "Victoria." but she had an odd their geckos before and it was evident especially a new pair of Geckos coming patterned "V" of black spots on the top that they took great care of their in soon. Brian and I had a breeding pair of her head. I suppose it struck me as collection. Everything was very clean, of Leopard Geckos but wanted to get significant and I wanted to incorporate organized and overall very well set-up. into Leopard Gecko breeding. This the "V" in her name. There was also So, when they called us up with an offer was a great opportunity for us. We ponsomething regal about her and the way to sell us a breeding colony of four dered the thought and realized it would she carried herself, so I wanted her geckos at a very reasonable price, we be no problem. We had a 110-gallon name to sound-Victorian, I suppose. jumped at the chance. Before we tank upstairs that would be a safe disThen again, all Leopard Geckos are accepted, they wanted us to know that tance away from the rest of our reptiles. regal and graceful, but she was some- one or all of them might be sick. This Everyone was happy. That is how we how different. I later found out that she was the reason they wanted/needed to came across Victoria. was very different, because Victoria had get rid of them. They didn't want to risk a secret behind those beautiful green getting their new shipment of Geckos eyes of hers. sick if it were contagious.
We bought Victoria from a friend who had Leopard Geckos and was about
The symptoms sounded pretty mild to us, nevertheless, they didn't want to take any chances. They said they
Of course, I didn't get around to naming her for quite awhile after we got her. But we kept an eye on the cage and everyone's health. They seemed healthy and we didn't see
3
Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
any strange fecal. After about a week, we reported to the owner that all seemed well and we didn't see any strange fecal. He was happy to know they were all ok, but still glad that he was cautious about it.
We figured the geckos would be fine since we didn't see any strange fecal, so we didn't do a fecal test like we were initially advised.
Then about 3 or 4 weeks after we bought them, we noticed one of them getting a bit thin. We had thought they were all laying eggs, because there was a set of eggs every ten or so days and we weren't quite familiar enough with the four of them to tell them apart, much less figure out who was laying when. It turned out later that one of them wasn't laying any eggs.
On a Sunday, we decided to quarantine the thin female and take her stools in for sampling. We put about 4 crickets in her cage and kept a good eye on her.
On Tuesday, she hadn't eaten any crickets and there wasn't a stool in the whole cage.
On Wednesday, one of the crickets was drowned in her water dish. Of course, we promptly removed the drowning victim and replaced the water, but there were still no stools.
On Thursday I became worried, so I took her out again and was determined to get her to eat something. I set her on the small love-seat in our reptile room and I sat on the floor and examined her. The bottom of her stomach was a bit dark, and it concerned me, because I have only seen it in small, weak and underfed Geckos-ie, the one's with no tails that we'd get free (read: rescue) from PetSmarts because they were sick. Other than that, she looked fine. She was crawling all around with just as much energy as any gecko I've seen and she even climbed nearly vertically up my shirt to sit on my shoulder. She
4
was just a bit thin. But still, I was worried about her and I needed her to eat. Even if for my own relief and satisfaction.
I had seen thinner geckos, but it alarmed me because it seemed like she was getting significantly thinner every day. I was convinced she had to eat. The crickets obviously weren't getting eaten. I thought maybe it was because she couldn't catch them, so I put a few mealworms in front of her.
She looked at the mealworms with boredom. Then she looked away. I moved one towards her again and she looked at them again with apathy. I could swear if geckos yawned, then she would have at that moment.
I think she started to realize what I was trying to do and that I wouldn't leave her alone unless she at least tried to eat them. So, she humored me by licking one and then stuck her nose up in the air like a finicky cat to let me know she truly wasn't interested. I sighed with disappointment.
Well, I wasn't giving up that easily. So, I got out some silkworms and I put them in front of her. By this time, she knew the routine and she agreed to play along. She looked at them uninterested and then she licked one. The nose went up in the air like a cat who just licked a piece of celery.
Nope, no good. I left both the mealworms and the silkworms on the loveseat in case she changed her mind. Then I ran and got some wax worms from another room. I was going to pull every trick in the book if I had tal I put them in front of her and I crossed my fingers.
She looked at me as if to say, "What? Again? I am truly getting tired of this game.1I
Then she looked at them and licked one And then her tail started to flicker and
her eyes seemed to get a spark in them. She pushed her body back with her front legs and turned her head down to look at her prey more closely. This position in geckos says, "I'm interested and I see something to eat!" It's like a cat's pose ready to pounce on a mouse or a toy.
This is what I was looking forll My heart sang out with happiness and I was thrilled that she possibly going to eat.
Sure enough! Like a cat pouncing on her prey, she stealthily watched her food until it wiggled and POUNCED right onto it. She shook her prey vigorously from side to side, gulped it down and licked her lips. It was pure joy watching her eat and I was so elated when she ate another. And another. Six in total.
Finally, her stomach must have filled up-tiny as it was and she no longer seemed interested in wax worms. I tried the mealworms and silkworms again, but not so much as a glance.
But I was happy with our accomplishment and I gently put her away. Then I called my husband to tell him of my great feat for the day. I was so proud of myself. I thought for sure she was going to be fine. All we had to do was get a fecal from her and then bring it in for a test. Then we could treat her for whatever worms she had and we'd be home-free.
On Friday, she didn't eat anything, but I wasn't too surprised. She was probably still digesting and I didn't want to push too much food on her all at once.
But on Saturday morning, there still was no fecal. I was at a seminar until about 6:00pm that day and when I got home, Brian told me she had finally produced a fecall Hooray! I can't believe I was so proud that one of my animals took a $%!#.
Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
I went downstairs to see how she was and I gently picked her up. Whereas on Thursday, she had the strength to climb up my shirt to my shoulder, today it was all she could do to muster up enough energy just cling on.
told us that scoliosis was a progressive $48." disease and it would still get worse and it would still eventually die. Well, about 9 months later it passed on. So, she lasted about 2 years after we had adopted her. I suppose this was more
So, we called the clinic and I gave the receptionist the information about Victoria.
I set her down on the loveseat and looked at her. I'm sure it sounds funny, but I asked her how she was. She blinked her eyes slowly as if to say she wasn't so great. I asked her if she wanted to go to the Veterinarian's tonight or if she wanted to wait until Monday. I realized she wouldn't be able to answer me, but maybe just by verbalizing the question, I tuned more into how she LOOKED like she was feeling. She looked at me almost pleadingly and then she slowly looked away. Then, she did something that really stuck in my mind. She started to walk off into the corner of the couch and almost laid down. Not exactly the typical curiosity of a happy Leopard Gecko. My interpretation of her gesture was that if I wanted to wait until Monday, she was going to go find a place to curl up and die. Maybe it was just my guilt talking.
than anyone could ask for from a snake "Oh, it's an exotic?" she inquired when I with scoliosis, but what bothers me is if told her the "breed." I think an animal is suffering. Unfortunately, due to her scoliosis, I realize now that she suffered in her last few months of life.
So, "Tigger" had passed on only 6 days before my skinny Leopard Gecko provided us her fecal sample. I gently put
"Well, then we wouldn't make you wait. We would take your animal as soon as we could because we know they need to stay warm. Just bring her in and we'll see you right away. Do you have a cooler of some sort?"
her away and I went upstairs to discuss Well yes, I thought to myself, we have a what to do about her with my husband. cooler of some sort and I nearly He said he'd back me up on any deci- laughed at her question, because we've sion I made, because he realized that been toting around reptiles in our many losing "Tigger" was tough enough on coolers for years. But then, I guess not me. I called another Gecko expert I everyone goes to hands-on's or knew to see if he had any ideas of what Renaissance Fests with their animals. to do, but he wasn't there, so I left a So it's good that she asked. In any message. case, we headed out silently with our
I called a Veterinarian clinic. It was about $20 if we went on Monday and $68 just to step into the office on a weekend night. Aside from that, there
When you're worried about one of your was a 3-hour wait before our animal little babies, little things like that can could even be seen. The Veterinarian make you turn into "Drama Queen of Clinic was open 24-hours and it was the World." I'm sure I was being just a now 7:30pm. bit overprotective here. However, not even six days before, we had lost a Brian sat across from me at the table corn snake that we adopted from the . while I tried to come up with a decision. Herpetological Society. It had had sco- I drummed my fingers on the table and liosis and a broken back when we fiddled with the Herpetological White adopted it and it would have been put to Pages list of Veterinarians. I looked at sleep if we had not adopted it. the clock a few times and then pushed Everyone told us it would surely die the Yellow Pages away. Finally, I within about a year and that scoliosis in broke the silence by saying, "Let's just snakes was something you just couldn't do it. It's Saturday night and it's not do anything about. We brought it to a gOing to be any less busy tomorrow. knowledgeable reptile person after We can sleep late tomorrow if we need about a year of caring for it to make to, but Victoria isn't getting any better, sure we were doing the right thing and and I don't think she's going to make it not just prolonging its pain. She said until Monday." whatever we were doing was great because it looked like it was growing Then I pondered that thought and I and that it was not in pain. She said to changed my mind, "Well, maybe she continue whatever we were doing, and would make it, but if she didn't, I would that she was somewhat surprised it was never forgive myself for not going in on still alive. Of course, she also time and it's just not worth the guilt for
cooler and a pack of cards just in case it was a long wait.
Little did we know what a long night we had in front of usl
(Next week Part II: A Trip to the Animal Emergency Room)
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Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
Out lost in the Woods
The Minnesota Herpetological Survey for Lake Maria State Park, June 8, 9 & 10, 2001
On Friday June 8, 2001, a few members of the Minnesota Herpetological Society met at Lake Maria State Park to set up for a weekend of herpetological sUiveying. The author, his wife, Marilyn and a friend's son, Shawn Keinholtz, arrived to set-up camp and to finalize all arrangements with the Park manager, Mark Crawford. Mark greeted us and answered all the last minute questions we had regarding the survey to take place that weekend. He had been instrumental, and was indeed eager, to help in faCilitating the paperwork and connections needed in order to secure permission and permits required.
After the meeting a brief run through the park on the warm and sunny evening offered glimpses of the wildlife. Painted Turtles were seen searching for and successfully finding nesting spots. Later, several species of anurans were heard chorusing. These included a few Eastern American Toads and good numbers of Cope's and Gray Treefrogs. Our initial impressions of the park were favorable, as the area appears to have a decent number of habitat types. Most of it is covered in dense and tall forests interspersed with cattail sloughs, lakes and fields of grass. Supper at the Small
Group CampSite (SGC) included the RaiSing the next morning was refreshfind of a small American Toad hopping ing, if a bit soggy and humid under a near the primitive bathroom facilities. partly cloudy sky. As the camp slowly As soon as this was finished the safety awoke, Marilyn set to tasking us with of the tents was sought due to the the set-up for breakfast and we preenormous number of mosquitoes that pared for the arrival of the day's volunset upon us. The evening ended with a teers. Nancy Haig arrived first due to gusty wind, which brought in a soaking some automotive miracle which had rain shower. just the prior evening threatened to
strand her. The next two hours brought
Blue Spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale
in several more persons until it seem.ed we must adjourn the campsite merriment and make for the field. Fortunately, we had several hand radio sets to communicate with as more individuals and groups arrived after we were well on our way. Marilyn, who stayed in camp to coordinate meals and serve as a base, helped direct the stragglers to our present location. The first animals of the day were found near camp and included an American Toad and a Wood Frog. However, these Photo by Heather C Matson
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Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
were soon eclipsed when Shawn found t h rum m e d . the first Blue-spoiled Salamander Lunch was the under a log in an area of open wood- next item on the land. Later, one of the new arrivals, agenda, and as Jessica Girard found the first serpent, a we had radioed badly injured Eastern Garter snake that ahead, Marilyn was basking on a log in a small patch of had setup the sunlight. The snake had a long and condiments and fresh wound on its back. The day snacks. warmed and the bugs continued their harassment as the group continued to prospect in a large circle north and west of the SGC. Painted Turtles were seen basking, raided turtle nests were noted and a supercharged skink eluded Becky, another of the four Girards attending. Just prior to the end of the morning survey, a very lonely sounding Northern Green Frog occasionally
F allowing our repast, the group headed
Prairie Skink Eumeces septentrionalis
Redbelly Snake Storeria occipitomaculata
Photo by Randy Blasus
with renewed vigor toward more southerly trails to lead us through several high priority sites that had been indicated to us on Friday by the Manager. Once again, we entered a very tall and dense forest where most of the species found were similar to that morning's catch. However, one find was new. This was a treefrog who refused to vocalize and announce his species affiliation to either of the two species heard calling the evening prior. While the finds were the same, they were more numerous and interspersed throughout the woods. The hike took its toll on the participants as heat, insects and sheer labor caused us to pause at the trail head building; which had running water and shelter if not a functioning vending machine! The Girards had split off from the main group to survey the park's main lake environs. From shore a map turtle was seen, but unfortunately was not captured casting shadow on its' exact species. By the time everyone had finally arrived back at camp, most were quite exhausted. Preparations began for a few photos to be shot and supper to be wrangled. A few left the park to take care of other business or head home. Two,
Photo by Heather C Matson
and surveyed a lake to the northeast of the SGC turning up the first Northern Red-bellied Snake as well as Blue-spotted Salamanders. Several stayed behind to camp out and those that could bear the bugs (usually the ones most doused with bug repellent) enjoyed a meal cooked over a hardwood fire and the silence of the wood, broken only by conversation between the surveyors and that of the nearby anurans.
This evening proved to be most disturbing (at least to the author) as the very warm and sticky evening brought in a long, nasty thunderstorm. Rain poured in sheets on to the four tents left at the SGC while lightening flickered as long
however, stayed a little Wood Frog Rana sy/vatica Photo by Heather C Matson longer (namely Philip
Woutat and Laurie Ford)
7
~,.I\E l'<r._
z . Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7 ~ .
1E'6
and continuously as a cheap lightbulb. The morning was little more welcoming then the previous, overcast and wet (again). The day began as before, consumables set out for a brief and nutritious (read: donuts) breakfast and various tales told of the day before, confirming records and so on while waiting the day's volunteers to arrive. Some came in groups, such as the infamous 'Gecko Gang' - Jodi Aherns, Heather Matson, ringleader Tony Gamble, who were closely followed by occasional cohort and 'wannabe GG', Jim Gerhold!. The days work was continuously enlivened by the antics of this group! Records of nesting turtles including one large Eastern Snapping Turtle were entered into the log from those who had just arrived. The morning's sojourn consisted of old and new areas covered near Lake Maria
8
and the first Salamanders were found. More were field to be found as were American Toads and w 0 r ked. Wood Frogs. A few especially nice indiThis field viduals were retained for later photohad a moist graphing. meadow component Lunch was a brief if caloric affair; severthat proved al individuals were on a short time un u sua II y schedule and a few were soon to leave. fruitful in Much time was spent photo-documentthat many ing the captives that returned to camp E a s t ern with the surveyors. Cameras came out
of every bag, and the continuing flashes of the camera strobes dazed the poor subjects. The only other interesting event was a tree that fell in the woods behind camp. It begs the question, "If a tree falls in the woods, directly behind you, do you s**t your pants?I" The remainder continued in pursuit of the prey (herps, of course) starting along the eastern perimeter of the park near the entrance. A hike to the north provided a few records as we traversed over fields and through thick brush that
Gartersnakes and multiple Northern covered the rolling terrain. A turn to the Prairie Skinks were caught. The group south yielded little more until the decithen ventured over more familiar ter- sion to end the survey of the areas was rain, to where the Blue-spotted made due to the extreme heat and lack
1---
ICoid Blooded Connections I . ~~~'poow~d :::~:;~::~, H"P:::[:~""~ciy ........ _ ~--T------~~----·- -
I.!'I INTERNET Standards and National Science Education Standards.
RESOURCES ~ Information regarding the
..I""""""
The World Wide Web is an
incredible resource when
searching for information
concerning reptiles and
amphibians.
The following are just a few
examples of the many fine lesson
plans available on-line.
~ The Center for Global Environ
mental Education at Hamline
University sponsors "A
Thousand Friends of Frogs."
They produce a printed guide
which is available for $10. They
have additional activities on-line
which can be found at < http://
cgee.hamline.edu/frogs/teach
ers/activitylindex.html >. The
activities on-line are ...
• Observing Using Smell
• Observing Using Sight
• A Long Winter's Nap
• Magic Words • What Color Am I?
These learning activities are
designed for use with
elementary aged students. The
format includes time needed,
background information,
objectives, materials
I necessary, procedures and
reptiles and amphibians
indigenous to Minnesota can
be found at < www.herpnet.netl
MinnesotaHerpetology>. Check
out this site for descriptions,
range, status, photographs, and
more on our native herps.
~ Looking for more information
on lesser known amphibians ...
like salamanders? Try
< www.enature.com>.This URL
will take you to the National
Audubon Society's on-line guide
where you can find almost 300
reptile & amphibian entries.
«In the end, we wjJ1 conserve only what we love. We will love only what we
understand We will understand only what we are taught.)J Baba Dioum
~ Reviled & Revered: Toads,
Turtles, Snakes, Salamanders,
& Other Creepers & Crawlers is
an on-line publication of the
Smithsonian Institute. Go to
< http://educate.sLedu/resources/
lessons/siyc/herps/start.html > to
view this educational newsletter.
~ The Newt and Salamander
Home Page can be found at
< www.users.interport.netl-spiff/
Newt%26Salamander.html >. I. extension activities. The
activities are keyed to the
Minnesota Graduation ~~~~-=- ~ =~~ __ = _~<~~,~~=,=~s-=,.,-~==_,=~--===_" __ ~--==",,~~"~~="=<=""',";~="'==~·'--~ .... -===--==
Welcome to Cold
Blooded Con neciions
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 a'rnphlbians~
Educate the
membership and the
general public in the
ecological role of
reptiles & amphibians.
Promote the study and
conservation of reptiles
and amphibians."
What better way to , accomplish these goals I
than to make the
necessary tools I available for educators i
to utilize in the 'I
classroom and out in
the field. 1,1
"Cold Blooded
Connections" has been
developed to help meet
that need. Along with
this quarterly
newsletter, MHS will
offer several
workshops for
educators who are
interested in finding
new and innovative
ways to make herps a
part of their student
J'
everyday learning
experience!
The Spineless Corner
Inveliebrate News
Reptiles and amphibians are members of the phylum Chordata, with the other vertebrates of the animal kingdom. The remainder of the Earth's animals are invertebrates. There are many more invertebrates than vertebrates. In fact, invertebrates make up about 90% of all animals. Millipedes and centipedes are both in the phylum Arthropoda, blot they arc found in two separate classes.
Centipedes, found in the class Chilopoda with apx. 2,800 species, have long, flat bodies with many segments. They have hooked fangs for injecting poison into their prey, such as earthworms and insects. Although centipede means "hundred legs", most have i 15 to 175 pairs of legs, with i only one pair per body I segment.
Millipedes, in the class Dip/opoda with apx. 8,000 species, are more round
bodied with many segments. Although the word millipede means "thousand legs", most have around 50 pairs of legs, with the record being 376 pairs of legs. Unlike centipedes, they have two pairs of legs attached to each segment, and most are herbivorous. There are a few isolated predatory species.
BOOKS In Review
The National Wildlife Federation has produced a series of teacher's guides focusing on varied aspects of the animal kingdom. The series was first released in the 80's, but recent updates have included revisions and additional information and activities.
Ranger Rick's NatureScope is a creaiive, activities-centered education series dedicated to inspiring in children an understanding and
"Years late1; the time comes for each turtle to cross many miles,
to a certain place, to a certain shore, to mate in shallow waters. Then the female crawls upon the night beach
and makes her own tracks in the sand."
From "Tracks in the Sand" by Loreen Leedy
appreciation of the natural world, while developing the skills they will need to make responsible decisions about the environment. Each book includes: => Reproducible "Copycat Pages," with games, puzzles, pictures to color, and more.
=> Ready-to-use activities, including arts and crafts, creative writing, science experiments, songs, games, and curriculum tie-ins ... with complete materials lists and step-bystep instructions.
=> Essays and case studies from leading scientists for group discussion.
=> Expanded glossaries and bibliographies.
"Let's Hear It For Herps" is one of the eighteen books in the series. Whether
they find them yucky '\ j J or awesome, kids are mesmerized by herps ... the collective term for reptiles and amphibians. Targeted, theme-based activities in reading, geography, creative writing, social studies, dramatics, and more lead students, in grades kindergarten through seventh, to discover the scientific facts behind the mysteries and myths surrounding these coldblooded creatures. Children will find out whether alligators really roam our urban sewer systems ... they'll learn about strange behaviors - such as how snakes swallow something twice as big as their heads ... and pick up many other interesting facts about these wonderful creatures. Ranger Rick's NatureScope "Let's Hear It For Herps" will make a wonderful addition to any educators library!
MHS members may check out a copy from the society's library ... one of the many benefits of membership.
Did You Know?? Facts & figures
to mystify your students!
The number of vertebrate animals is astounding. Although new species are being discovered, the current
numbers of recognized species are approximately ...
Mammals .......... 4,000 Reptiles ........ 6,500
Amphibians ........ 4,000 Birds ........ 8,700
Fishes ........ 20,000+ Compare that to the invertebrate
arthropods .. , 900,000+
Minnesota Herpetological Society Educators' VVorkshops
"Tips and Tools for Teaching About Reptiles and Amphibians" Workshop #1
October 13, 2001 9:30AM - 1:30PM
Dodge Nature Center located in west St. Paul, Minnesota
Workshop #2 October 27, 2001 9:30AM - 1:30PM
Wargo Nature Center located in Centerville, Minnesota
Register now to attend a workshop developed to increase your understanding of reptiles and amphibians, and to show you new ways to include the study of
herpetology as part of your regular curriculum.
Two additional workshops will be held in November. Their locations will be announced in the Fall 2001 issue of Cold Blooded Connections.
All participants must pre-register, as there are only 25 spaces available for each workshopl
M.H.S. Workshop Registration Form Name: __________________________________________________________________ ___
Address: ________________________________________________________________ __
City / State / Zip: __________________________________________________________ _
Phone Number: __________________ _ E-mail Address: ____________________________ ___
Affiliation: ________________________________________________________________ _
Age most often worked with: Preschool K-2 3-5 6-8 9-12 Adults Mixed
Workshop attending ...
October 13, 2001 at Dodge Nature Center (Registration closes Sept. 30, 2001)
October 27, 2001 at Wargo Nature Center (Registration closes Oct. 13, 2001)
Please send me information regarding the November workshops.
Check or money order for $5 included.
(Registrations will not be accepted unless payment is included.)
Please make checks payable to the Minnesota Herpetological Society. All fees become non-refundable if registration is not canceled at least five days prior to the workshop.
You will receive confirmation of your registration prior to the workshop. Pre-registration is necessaryllill If you have questions, concerns, or special needs, please call Beth at 763-691-1650
or send e-mail [email protected]
Send your completed registration form to: M.H.S. R&A Workshops
% Beth Girard 2021 352nd Avenue, N.E.
Cambridge, MN 55008-8037
Reptiles & AmphibiqDS ~
1
~
2 3
1 1
I' ~ 5
1 I I ,s- l-
f.-----~ ....•.. ~ -7
-6
I I I
~ - -
9
WORD BANK - - - -alligator
amphibian 10 11
aquatic carnivore
~ eyelid - -12
frog herpetology ~J
13 I I 1 nocturnal - -rattlesnake \
reptile ~~ I-
" salamander ~ I--
shed ~ shell ~ I-turtles ~ vertebrate 15
I I ACROSS
3. Animals that live in, or mostly in, the water 4. Tortoises & terrapins are this type of reptile DOWN 5. A member of the class of animals that are 1. An amphibian who has a long, sleek
cold-blooded and usually have moist, smooth body, and resembles a lizard
skin (such as frogs and toads) 2. A reptile closely related to crocodiles
8. Animals who are active at night 6. An animal that eats meat
10. An animal with a backbone 7. The study of reptiles & amphibians
12. The most common type of amphibian 9. A venomous snake who shakes his tail to
13. A member of the class of animals that are warn of his presence cold-blooded and have a body covering of 11. A moveable covering of the eye which is scales (such as snakes and lizards) missing in snakes. This differentiates
14. When reptiles grow, they lose their outer, snakes from lizards because they have dead layer of skin them.
~ .. ~ 15. The outer skeleton of a turtle
HERP SPOTLIGHT The Oriental
Fire-Bellied Toad Bombina orientalis
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Oiscoglossidae
The oriental fire-bellied toad is a
member of the family of disc-tongued
frogs. This group of amphibians
received its name due to its strangely
shaped tongue which is not able to be
extended, so it uses its fore limbs to
stuff its prey into its mouth.
Fire-bellied toads are found in
southeastern Siberia and northeastern
China and Korea. They spend most of
their time floating or swimming in
shallow rivers, streams, rivers, ponds
and marshes located at elevations
between 5,300 and 10,000 feet above
sea level. They are adept at catching
flying insects which land on the water's
surface or fly just above it. However,
they will readily eat almost anything
that will fit into their mouths. Their
natural diet also includes small
crustaceans which supply them with
betacarotene. It is this source of
carotene which supplies the pigment
necessary to keep their ventral side
bright red.
Fire-bellied toads have wonderfully,
teachable modes of self-preservation.
They defend themselves in a variety of
ways. When threatened, they can
secrete a foamy, white poison from
glands on their skin. This toxin irritates
the mucous membranes of any
attacker. The green and black mottled
upper body of the toad blends in
perfectly with with its algae-covered,
rock-bottomed habitat. This is an
example of CAMOUFLAGE. The
toads' bright red underside comes in
handy when the toad feels
threatened. It can arch its back and
twist its legs up revealing its .
WARNING or FLASH
COLORATION. When sitting on
land, the bright ventral side of the
frog is completely hidden, allowing it
to remain camouflaged. These toads
are therefore able to make use of two
defensive strategies .. , warning
coloration and camouflage ... just by
changing their physical position.
Fire-bellied toads are capable of "".Y
producing as many as 200 eggs in a
single season. They have lived as
long as 12 years in captivity.
Herpetology ... n. the branch of zoology dealing with reptiles and amphibians
(From Greek herpeton reptile, from herpein to creep)
From The American Heritage Dictionary of Science
Crossword Puzzle Answers Across ... (3) aquatic; (4) turtles;
(5) amphibian; (8) nocturnal; (10) vertebrate; (12) frog;
(13) reptile; (14) shed; (15) shell Down ... (1) salamander; (2) alligator; (6) carnivore;
(7) herpetology; (9) rattlesnake; (11) eyelid
r I
I I I I
I I
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Skulls Unlimited Skulls and other I
biofacts ... I'
10313 South Sunnyland
Oklahoma City, OK
73160
PH: 1-800-659-SKULL
FAX: 1-800-676-5459
www.skullsunlimited.com
Acorn Naturalists Resources for the trail
and classroom ...
17821 E. 17th Street,
#103
P.O. Box 2423
Tustin, CA
92781-2423
PH# (800) 422-8886
.acornnaturalists.com
Folkmanis Puppets Order a catalog
through Enchanted Forest
85 Mercer St. New York, NY 10012
(212) 925-6677 (800) 456-4449
http://www.sohotoys.com [email protected]
- National Wildlife
Federation -
Ranger Rick's
NatureScope Series available through
McGraw-Hili
Professional Catalog at www.books.mcgraw-hill.com
orat
www.amazon.com
Minnesota
Herpetological
Society NEWS
wonderful world of herps and the
materials already available. The first
workshop will be held at Dodge
Nature Center on October 13th.
Dodge is located in west St. Paul. • The Minnesota Herpetological
Society meets the first Friday of
each month. General meetings
are held in Room 335 of Borlaug
Hall at the St. Paul campus of
the University of
Minnesota. Meetings
begin at 7PM. For more
information, visit the
Society's website at
www.onrampinc.netlmhs
.\IIIargo Nature Center, in Centerville,
will be home to the second workshop
on October 27th. Both workshops
will run from 9:30AM until 1 :30PM.
The cost to participants is $5. You
may request a registration form and
additional information to be sent to
you by using the information for the
newsletter editor found in the box to
the right.
• The MHS will be hosting
workshops for educators
interested in learning "Tips and
Tools for Teaching About
Reptiles and Amphibians." Four
workshops will be held to
introduce educators to the
L The'Bell Museum of Natural History
(located on the St. Paul campus of U
of M) is hosting a traveling exhibit
entitled, "Animal Eyes". The exhibit
will close on September 2, 2001. A
teacher's guide can be found on-line
at < http://www.astc.org/exhibitions/
eyes/acteyes.htm >
Project WILD ~ Project WILD is an interdisciplinary conservation and environmental education program emphasizing wildlife. Project WILD's primary audience is educators of kindergarten through high school students. This approach does not limit the usefulness of Project WILD to formal educational settings. The activities are as powerful in a classroom setting, as they are when included as a portion of an outdoor education program.
"The goal of Project WILD is to assist learners of any age in developing awareness, knowledge, skills and commitment resulting in informed decisions, responsible behavior and constructive actions concerning wildlife and the environment."
The Project WILD k-12 Curriculum and Activity Guide includes many activities which can be utilized to teach about reptiles and amphibians. In "Habitat Rummy", the basic needs of four animals, including a lizard, are evaluated. "Surprise Terrarium" uses frogs to look at camouflage as an adaptation. Several activities utilize many different animals to explore the concept of biodiversity.
The Project WILD Aquatic K-12 Curriculum and
Aquatic WILD Activity Guide serves as an invitation to explore and understand the fascinating world of water and the aquatic habitats it supports. Included are several activities relating to herps. In "Sea Turtles International", students portray the political interactions of citizens from different countries who have a variety of perspectives on the conservation of wildlife and habitat. "Turtle Hurdles" allows students to become sea turtles and limiting factors in a highly active simulation game. A Minnesota supplement is available focusing on one of our state's threatened terrapins ... Blanding's turtles.
Project WILD and Aquatic WILD are only available to participants who attend a workshop. For information regarding an upcoming workshop, contact
Jan Welsh Minnesota Project WILD State Coordinator
DNR - Nongame Wildlife Programs 500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155-4007 Phone: (651) 297-2423
E-mail: [email protected]
~ Minnesota Hell'etological Society Montlliy Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7 ------~~--~--~~~~--~~~--~~~~~~--~ .. ~
of finds. Indeed, the next major find played along with this harsh and hot weather by being dead! Here was the first Blanding's Turtle of the survey, which was found as bleached bones and shell scutes. These were collected carefully and brought to Mark Crawford for proper use. When we returned to the park interior, a brief meeting was held with the Park Manager, the deceased deposited and information was exchanged. Following this, the
. Gecko Gang retreated because the Tony needed to retrieve his neonate. Although much wrangling of gear and other personal mayhem was created before they finally were able to take their leave.
The sad remainders of this once large party, namely, the author, Jim Gerholdt, Jeff LeClere, his awesome sidekick Katie Marier, and Shawn Keinhollz returned to camp to find Marilyn packing for our return home. As the remaining members milled around, however, Mark Crawford brought in the granddaddy prize of them all. A newly caught and very bold Blanding's Turtlel Which also is a possible size record to boot! Those remaining felt cheered indeed to view so magnificent a creature. From here, a carload left for one finial drive of the park's perimeter whereupon a few additional pare for the doldrums of the next day's areas were pointed out as locations of reentrance into their career. finds from those who had arrived for this morning's .survey. Finial packing was In performan?e.ofthissurvey, many vol-accomplished and the campsite vacat- unteered their time and experience and ed as the last left for home and to pre- for that we are grateful. Twenty mem-
bers volunteered in the survey on either one or all three days and they are (in no particular order): Philip Woutat, Laurie Ford, Bill Moss, Thomas Armstrong, Beth, Rebecca, Jessica, and Matthew Girard, Ingrid and Alex Kaiser, Shawn
9
Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001
Keinholtz, Nancy Haig, Jeff LeClere, Katie Marier, Jodi Aherns, Heather Matson, Tony Gamble, Jim Gerholdt, Marilyn Blasus and the Chair/coordinator Randy Blasus. Thanks also goes to the MNDNR personnel for their assistance in receiving the permission required and help with the paperwork routing and processing. Special mention goes to Mark Crawford, Park manager, without whose enthusiastic support of this survey, the project may never have started. MHS gratefully acknowledges The Friend of Lake Maria for covering admission fees and Lake Maria State Park who took care of the camping fees. Several individuals need to have special mention, to Jeff LeClere, Katie Marier and Jim Gerholdt who helped with teardown on Sunday; to Shawn Keinhollz with his help in setting up Friday as well as cleaning up, lastly and most importantly, especially to my wife, Marilyn Brooks Blasus for her continuing support and organizational skills that have made this survey a resounding success.
Blandings Turtle Emydoidea blandingii
by Randy Blasus Photos by Heather C Matson
Blandings Turtle Emydoidea blandingii Photo by Randy Blasus
10
Volume 21 Number 7
Photo by Jim Gerholdt
Minnesota Herpetological Society Monthly Newsletter July 2001 Volume 21 Number 7
Helpful Hints for Hands -on I'm glad to see so many people coming to our events. Here are a few things to remember:
1) Know the following about your animal. a) What kind it is. b) Whatit eats c) Where it lives in the wild d) Life expectancy
2) Never allow anyone other than yourself to hold your animal. 3) Try to be polite - even answering really dumb questions! 4) Come often - Thanks!
Jan Larsen [email protected]
English Spot Dutch
Jim's Rabbit Shack "Where Spots Are Tops'
JIMOALUOE (763) 295·2816
8700 Jaber Ave. NE Monticello, MN 55362
~ CREATURES r 1 tnlfAT A~ tMAI.I. ~
jii f£L=:" '''''£i5 ~ • /oY NORQUIST ~
(S01) 64' - 2751 , (877) S66 - 9949
Minnesota Herpetological Society Treasurer's Report Prepared by Marilyn Brooks Blasus, Treasurer
For the Month Ending: June 30, 2001
Income: Membership Sales (Net) Donations Raffle Misc
Total Income:
Expenses: Newsletter Printing
70.00 75.00 186.11 26.00 1.00 358.11
& Postage 184.82 Other Printing & Postage Program 50.00 Conservation/Donation Supplies & Refreshmnt -Misc 29.64
Total Expense: 264.46
Net Gain/(loss): 93.65
11
Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter June 2001 Volume 21 Number 6
Classified Advertisements (j) ~OCI ~ ------------------------------------__________________________________ __
Classified ads are free to the member ship. Deadline Is the nIght of the general meeting to be included In the next newsletter. 1.0.0 = male, 0.1.0 = female, 0.0.1 '" unsexed, cb = captive bred, obo = or best offer, + = times run{ ads are run only 3x unless requested to continue).
For Sale
We're Downsizinglll 9 Ball Pythons for Sale (3 large adulta, 6 subadults) Call for detailscTodd or Kelly 507.931.8887 Mankato area+++
Need Home: 1.1 adult common boa constrictors 7'.5" each. Accustomed to handling & people, used in live animal programs. Interested parties must be over 18, experienced in handling large snakes. References. Contact: Long Lake Conservation Center (Palisade MN),
800.450.5522, or [email protected]+++
Neodesha cages, used, $25 each. Contact Mark Hauge 320.202.9871 Or email [email protected] +++
Yearling Corn Snakes fedding on thawed frozen pinkies. 1.0 amel. 0.1 anery. 1.0 snow. 1.1 ghost. Call Laurie 763.428.4625 or email [email protected]++
For sale: Albino milksnake project; 1.1 albino ruthveni, 1.5 possible het ruthveni x thayeri, 1.1 possible het ruthveni. Also for give away 1.1 12 year old Hog Island boas F1 from wild caught. Mark Hauge, 320-202-9871, email [email protected]
Frozen Rabbits - all sizes. reasonable - pinkies to adults. 763.295.2818
Prices very Jim Daluge
Flightless FruitFlies - Excellent food for dart frogs, mantellas, hatchling geckos, baby chameleons, spiderlings, and other small herps. Two species available -Drosophila (small) and D. hyde! (large). $5/culture or $25/6 cultures. Each culture contains 30 to 50 adult flies and has the potentail to produce to several hundred young. Also, Mealworms - Two sizes available - regular and mini. $5/1000. Can be delivered to MHS meetings. Cal Tony Gamble 612.818.6861 or email [email protected]
1.1 adult queensland carpet pythons $300/pr 1.1 adult timor monitors $250/pr 1.1 adult argentine boas $400/pr 2.2 longlcauda (sp1) boas $800/pr Neodesha cages also available. Call Chelsea & Tyler: 651-776-5216 pager: 952-909-2736 email: [email protected]+++
BO or possible trade to good home with visitation rights. 1.2.0 (purchased as - but they have not bred) northern BTS - (2) 3.5 years old (1) 1- $250. for all three. 0.0.2 schniederri skinks - sub adult - nipped tails $25 pair. 0.0.1 juvey savanah monitor - $40.00. All have been recently parasite checked/and or treated. Contact Domonie at 763-424-4243 or [email protected]++
Wanted Wanted Adult Female Leucistlc Leopard Gecko, ready or almost ready to be breed. Contact Chris at (507)-359-9444 or at [email protected]
Eastman Nature Center is looking for a Milk snake, Fox snake, or a Black Rat snake. Snake will be used for school group and family classes and must handle well. Please call Kim at 763/420-4300.
All the shed snake skins in the world. Needed for giveaways at educational programs. Contact Bob Duerr 612.541.0362
Male Sail Tail Dragon to entertain my female. Large Male Northern bluetongue skink of atleast 2 years of age. Contact Domonie at 763-424-4243 or [email protected]
Female Gulf Coast Box Turtle. Looking for a girl to keep my fella company. Or a pair for breeding. Contact Heather Matson 651.647.3444 or [email protected]
MHS Rodent Sales Mice Pinkies $7/dz. Rats Sm Pups
Fuzzies $7/dz. Lg Pups Hoppers $8/dz. Juvn Rats Adults $10/dz Adults
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 Cisewski at 612.856.2865
or
All Proceeds go toward the operating costs of the society.
$12/dz. $18/dz. $24/dz.
6@$15 $30/dz.
The MHS is a completely volunteer run, non-profit organization.
Iii'" • <
You could Advertise Here for just $10 per Month or
$120 per year.
Advertising Policies
MHS 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 limitations, 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 ran three consecutive months, after which time they may be resubmitted. Corresponding members are allowed a complimentary business card advertisement monthly as space permits, Due to federal restrictions on Non-profit mailing permits, we are not allowed to run ads for travel, credit or insurance agencies.
Business card advertisements may be purchased at SS/ad, per month. For other rates please inquire.
Submissions: All advertisements should be submitted to the MHS Editor, Bell Museum of
<~J~=~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Natural History, 10 Church St. SE, Minneapolis. MN 55455. Deadline is the night of the I!rv II General Meeting for inclusion in the next newsletter. Make checks payable to: Minnesota
Herpetological Society. r-----------------------------------------------, Minnesota Herpetological Society Membership Application
New Name ,
Renewal Address
Membership# City, State, Zip,
Type Phone Email List in MHS Directory? Yes No
Check # Herp related interests
Active Memberships: Sustaining ($60/yr) Contributing ($30/yr) Basic ($15/yr)
Corresponding Memberships: Basic Commercial ($25/yr 2 Bus Cards) Bronze ($50Iyr 2 1/4 pg ads) Silver ($75/yr 2 1/2 pg Ads) Gold ($1 OO/yr 2 Full pg Ads)
Required check info. 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. L _______________________________________________ ~
UNIVERSITY OF MINNr;SOTA- ST. PAUL CAMPUS
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Room 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus
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MHS Voice mail: 612.624.7065
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MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SE MINNEAPOliS, MN 55455-0104
Non-Profit Rate U.S. Postage
PAID Mpls, MN
Permit No. 2275 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
POSTMASTER: DATED MATERIAL
Newsletter of
Minnesota Herpetological •
The S o C 1 e t y
August 2001
Upcoming Meeting The Vice-president's Report By Tony Gamble
September General Meeting
Friday, September 7th , 2001, 7:00PM Program: Monty's Traveling Reptile Show Guest Speaker: Monty Krizan
Monty Krizan has been exhibiting reptiles for decades. His traveling reptile show has been seen by tens of thousands of people at malls and fairs throughout the country. This month, after his stint at the Minnesota State Fair, he will give MHS members a special talk about reptiles and the responsibilities of keeping them in captivity. Monty has promised to bring several of
Volume 21 Number
Elections It is time once again to start thinking about the elections coming up in November. As always volunteers are needed to become a part of the MHS Board of Directors. This is a great opportunity for members to become involved and help shape the future of the MHS. Some of the things that we do as the Board is to decide on the operational budget for the MHS, decide on policy, plan special events, run the White Snake Sale and decide on funding for grant requests that we receive. I always liked reviewing the grant requests because it is great to know that the Society helps to fund important research and conservation efforts. Please take some time and consider running for a Board position and let me know if you are interested. If you are not quite sure about joining the Board then please join us at the October
board meeting and see us in action. Again if you are interested in running for a Board position let me know. Thanks. Julie Beauvais-Recording Secretary
We Need Your Ideas! MHS is considering a major update to
its web page and we are looking for your ideas. What would you like to see
on a new MHS site? Photos? Caresheets? Natural history information? If you have thoughts, ideas, or
are willing to contribute content, send an email to MHS Vice-president Tony
Gamble [email protected]
We are looking forward to your ideas!
his impressive display animals with -------------__ ---...,,--------
him as well. This will be a great oppor- Bumpersticker Contest tunity to see an engaging public speaker and his animals. Don't miss it.
Upcoming Meetings:
October 5th - TBA
White Snake Sale ...
Has officially moved to March. So start cleaning out closets and picking items like cages, books, lighting, etc. from garage sales to donate as auction items. The Photo Contest will be in march as well. Start going through those summer photos to enter and win. The photo entries MUST be turned in by the Febraury meeting. Contest rules and categories will be in the next newsletter.
We need your help designing a new MHS bumpersticker that will help make drivers more aware of turtles on roadways. MHS members will vote for their favorites at the March, 2002 meeting (aka White Snake Sale). Remember to
keep things simple (these things are read at high speeds!). Good luck! Sample:
I Jrake for furtles
