Reptile & Amphibian
News Blog
Keep up with news and features of interest to the reptile and amphibian community on the kingsnake.com blog. We cover breaking stories from the mainstream and scientific media, user-submitted photos and videos, and feature articles and photos by Jeff Barringer, Richard Bartlett, and other herpetologists and herpetoculturists.
Thursday, September 30 2010
 The long-awaited results of the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL) study are finally in, and none of the animals in the study survived the winter. While that is not much of surprise to someone who has kept Burmese pythons, the real question remains. Will the results of this independent scientific study finally end the debate that has taken so much time, energy, money and jobs from our community and industry?
Not likely.
This has never been about science. It's been about the money and it's been about the media and it's been about getting re-elected -- but mostly it's been about the money. Pythons and our community just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Regardless of the fact that the SREL study was an unbiased scientific study by an unbiased organization, since its conclusions have come down on "our" side of the fence it's now "our science." We can expect the opposition to either ignore it completely or find ways to discredit either it or the people involved. Millions of dollars in federal funding for the removal and remediation of these species, needed or not, are on the line, and you can expect that the individuals and organizations set to get a piece will all line up to take shots at the study.
To read the abstract of the SREL python study click here.
For newbies who wish to get into keeping any larger species of snake, the following was created and used to share with others to avoid common mistakes made when keeping large snakes. A recent story by a fellow rescuer with the Chicago Herp Society reminded me of this paper I created a few years ago(and a little encouragement by another CHS member).
Rules to Live by when Keeping Large Constricting Snakes
1. Avoid handling any constrictor over eight feet in length without assistance.
2. Use snake hooks and tongs to move the snake and cage furniture around in the enclosure or shield the head to block potential strikes by the snake.
3. Never rush into a cage without alerting the snake, use a gentle stroke with the snake hook on the body. A reassuring hand on the lower part of the body well away from the head can also be used, but stay out of the striking range of the snake’s head.
4. Be alert for warning signals such as huffing, hissing, gaping of the mouth, tail wagging or circling of the cage. These are all signs that the snake would rather be left alone and is in a defensive mode.
5. Never wear the snake around the neck or waist without sufficient people to pull it off.
Damage Control – What to do if you make a mistake
1. Remain calm. Sometimes the snake will release if there is no struggle.
2. If you have others with you, keep them calm by talking to them, let them know your status and instruct them on what to do.
3. If you are wrapped up begin by uncoiling beginning with either the head or the tail. If you have help spin away to help uncoil and straighten the snake out to avoid follow-up strikes.
4. If you cannot unwrap the snake using the head or tail because the snake has bitten and is hanging on, try flushing vinegar into the mouth. If the snake does not let go or cannot dislodge its teeth, use a large wood or plastic spoon and slide between the jaw and bite area, sliding the head forward slightly to dislodge the teeth.
5. Immediately place the snake in a secured cage or compartment. A strike is stressful for you and the snake so leave them be and get assistance if necessary to return the snake to its enclosure.
6. If any teeth are lodged in the skin, remove them with tweezers, wash with water, apply antiseptic and wrap with gauze. Seek medical attention for treatment of possible secondary infection and internal tissue damage.
7. Learn from your mistake and identify what you did wrong.
a. Did you smell like food?
b. Did you act like food entering the cage?
c. Did you startle the snake or invade its territory?
You can get a copy of this from my website in case you know of someone with big snakes.
By
Thu, September 30 2010 at 03:22
Wednesday, September 29 2010
 If you're going to try to cheat death, should probably make more than two days' wages in the process.
From the perfectly-named reporting agency Weird Asia News:
Now, to be fair, the snake was dead, the victim of revenge by one Zaver Rathod, a 35-year old man whose grasp on common sense and reason apparently weakens when incredibly small amounts of money are involved. Rathod, who killed the snake after it bit his friend in the city of Surat, was encouraged by his friends to eat the dead snake for 100 rupees.
The farm laborer eventually became violently ill and ultimately ending up in the hospital with a severe case of nausea and vomiting. In between the violent expelling of his stomach contents, one can only presume he was laughing over the fact that he totally won the bet.
This is one of those stories where you have to wonder if it's true. If it is, the snake species wasn't identified. My best guesses are one of these four: Indian cobra, common krait, Russell’s viper (pictured), and the saw-scaled viper.
What do you guess? And do you think it's real? And what would you do for two days' wages?
By
Wed, September 29 2010 at 12:54
Hello Boys and Girls,
This months CHS meeting will feature the double dueling doctors Steve Barten and Gery Herrmann talking about their recent tropical adventures in Ecuador. Steve and Gery are both long time members, former board members, and all around great guys to herp and hang out with. Steve is a fantastic photographer so this will be a visually awesome presentations and the duo Dr.s are experienced presenters so the talk itself will be excellent as well. Here is the write up off the forum,
Drs. Steve Barten and Gery Herrmann will present “Ecuador Expedition: Galapagos Islands and Rain Forest.” In June, 2010, Steve and Gery traveled with a group of veterinarians to Ecuador. They spent three nights in the rain forest of eastern Ecuador, seeing the abundant local wildlife including herps, birds, monkeys and insects. The group then flew to the Galapagos Islands, where they boarded a ship, visited 10 of the islands and saw giant tortoises, land and marine iguanas, lava lizards, three of the four endemic snake species, and many birds, sea lions, insects and fish. They crossed the equator eight times. Their presentation will showcase descriptions and hundreds of photos of the native wildlife and scenery.
Steve and Gery are long time (decades) members of the CHS. Both are veterinarians with special interest in herp patients, and both have been active field herpers for many years.
Still not excited to make it in?? Well we are planning a great raffle and who knows what will be drug out the river by then by Bob for a quick little show and tell... (hopefully nothing) Our lending library will be open for members and and and... I will be there, that should impress John at least. (Seriously, it should be a great presentation, this will be a good one to drag in that one friend for their first meeting and impress them with the CHS awesomeness!!!)
 While out stalking deer, Sitesh Ranjan Deb was attacked by a Himalayan Black Bear. Nearly loosing his life gave him a different perspective on the native species, and changed his path forever.
From the AFP:
"Many of the species I grew up with -- wild boars, leopards -- are hardly ever seen now. These animals are in their last days.
"Illegal logging has damaged the forest so much there is no food for the animals. Unless we act now, they'll be gone forever in a few years."
Sitesh, 62, nurses injured wild animals brought to him by villagers back to health and also appears regularly on television shows campaigning for better public attitudes towards wild animals.
If possible, he releases the animals back into the jungle, while others he keeps in his small zoo -- including two hand-raised Himalayan black bears after the mother was killed, a 5.5 metre (18 foot) python and a rare albino fishing cat.
Even Sitesh's family home is filled with animals, the more "difficult cases" which need 24-hour care. Two jungle cat cubs, a baby python and a badly-injured Slow Loris (a primate species) are currently in residence.
"So far, I've freed more than 1,000 animals and that's not counting 2,000 birds," he said, displaying photographs of many former patients.
To read the full, story click here.
Tuesday, September 28 2010
 We all know snakes get a bad rap. Tell a stranger you love snakes, and you're usually rewarded with a cringe. But the state of New Jersey is trying to change that, and save native wildlife at the same time.
From the New Jersey Newsroom:
The Venomous Snake Response Team uses facts and understanding to help people overcome their fear and loathing. This cuts both ways — sympathizing with peoples' fears while helping them see the world from a snake's-eye point of view.
New Jersey has 22 species of snakes. Of these, only two are venomous: the timber rattlesnake and northern copperhead. Snakes are a vital link in the food chain; they help control insect and rodent populations and, in turn, provide food for raccoons, bears, coyotes, hawks and owls.
Snake populations have long been on the decline in New Jersey due to factors like road traffic, destruction of habitat, pollution, human persecution and snake collectors, to name but a few. As development encroaches on snake habitat, people find themselves living on top of the pathways snakes have used for centuries to travel between dens and foraging areas. Some new developments have been built right on denning sites!
Despite wildlife laws prohibiting killing, collecting or harassing native snakes, fear drives many people to kill them. Non-venomous species like northern water snakes are often mistaken for venomous varieties, increasing the fear factor.
Here's to one state taking a proactive stance on education!
Monday, September 27 2010
By
Mon, September 27 2010 at 16:21
Animal Hoarding
Hoarding is a serious animal welfare problem that affects every community in the country… but hardly anyone is doing anything about it. It’s only when the hoarding degenerates into criminal animal abuse that authorities can get involved. Before then, it festers, with helpless pets locked away inside the homes of people who are often suffering from serious emotional problems.
With more than 3,500 cases a year, animal hoarding puts a strain on families, finances, the 250,000 animals and reptiles affected annually and the health of everyone involved.
Animal Planet is filming a new documentary series, that tries to find solutions to the problems of animal hoarding before it becomes criminal animal abuse. With no existing protocol, the series coordinates task-force style mediation by psychologists, animal welfare experts, veterinarians, friends and families. Animal Planet provides safe opportunities to explore the compulsive care-giving, digging deep into desire for love and paralyzing fears of loss to understand how the problem grew so extreme and to provide tools to put a healthy plan into action. We work with families and friends to help hoarders who may want help with humane placement of pets, veterinary care, house cleaning, psychological help to prevent recidivism, and other support. We have been successful in developing Humane solutions for both the animals and their owners.
If you know someone who has more than the typical number of companion animals, who is failing to provide even minimal standards of nutrition, sanitation, shelter, and veterinary care, with this neglect often resulting in illness and death from starvation, spread of infectious disease, and untreated injury or medical condition.
Is this person in denial of their inability to provide this minimum care and the impact of that failure on the animals, the household, and human occupants of the dwelling?
If so, please go to our website Animal Hoarding Project
More information about hoarding Animal Hoarding
 Other concerns with the Commonwealth Games in Delhi aside, some are making the biggest complaint about the snakes. A South African athlete had a surprise in his room, and the teams are expressing concerns over safety.
From Yahoo News:
A South African athlete discovered the unwelcome guest in their room and the South African High Commissioner Harris Mbulelo has admitted he is now worried about the Games.
"We have very grave concerns," Mbulelo told the Press Trust of India news agency.
"If snakes are found we can't ask our teams to stay there."
From an interview an an ABC article, the Aussies put a lighter spin on it:
JOHN TAYLOR: And an unexpected hazard has emerged for India's organisers. Indian media is reporting that the South African team found a snake in one of its rooms in the athletes' village. And the Times of India newspaper carried a front page photo today of a man removing a one metre long Cobra from the Tennis Stadium.
STEVE MONEGHETTI: You don't want to see one. We come from the country got the most venomous snakes in the world so if any country is prepared it's probably us. Maybe we've planted a couple, I'm not sure, what sort were they? Did you get the identification of them?
REPORTER: Cobra.
STEVE MONEGHETTI: Cobras. Right, okay. Maybe, maybe, yeah well, its only a Cobra. What are we worried about?
MARK COLVIN: Well maybe just bring in some Mongeese.
With all the other problems, I think at this point they are just looking for something else to pile on.
Continue reading "Herp Report: A snake enters the Commonwealth Games"
By
Mon, September 27 2010 at 11:28
I have to thank Cindy for the photo caption, but really I have to thank Xan for proving to be a most amusing captive.
"Do my feet smell?"
snappy snap snap snapping turtle walking on the bottom of pond ....looking like a bulldozer plowing through the mud... with a streach of the neck your nostrils break the waters surface...air...then down you go plowing around the pond bottom snappy snap snap snapping turtle... you move by shore...with a grab of your tail pulled out... wondering what ruined your day....its just a human...snappy snap snap snapping turtle .... you snap the hand and you are dropped back in the water....snappy snap snap snapping turtle ...your at peace again back in the water... How would you feel if your picked up by your butt ?.... snappy snap snap snapping turtle plowing around the bottom of pond.... so peaceful snappy snap snap
JD Hartzel
Sunday, September 26 2010
 The main theme was tiger conservation, but for herpers, the efforts in Nepal aid the survival of the most unusual of the crocodilians, the Gharial.
From NepalNews.com:
Speaking at the event, Constituent Assembly chairman Subas Chandra Nemwang, chief guest of the event, lauded and paid tribute to the contribution of the Conservation Heroes who lost who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on 23 September 2006 at Ghunsa, Kangchenjunga.
While reflecting on the status of conservation in Nepal, he reiterated his stance that his reflection was in no way questioning the efforts of conservationists in Nepal but rather a request to them to investigate carefully the means to improve such conservation efforts in the future, be it for the tiger, dolphin or gharial, and their habitats.
"Forests are the most important habitats for species such as the tiger, rhino and elephant; it is interesting to note that cases of forest degradation and encroachment have been highest during recent times when Nepal has been facing a volatile political climate," he added.
To read the full article, click here.
old Mr box turtle walking slowly throughout the woods ... When predators threaten you... You close your shell tight ..... When dangers gone , you pop out to wander again... what a wonderful life being old mr box turtle...
Jd Hartzel
By
Sun, September 26 2010 at 10:09
In early 2002 I decided I wanted to get a pet green iguana. As I was planning on moving I decided to wait till after the move before picking up a pet. Since I had time, I decided to learn all I can about green iguana's, hopefully find a local breeder and get anything I need ahead of time. So I headed online and researched....and what I learned and discovered was certainly unexpected.
Green iguanas get big...as long as 5', with about half being tail. They need special heating, lights and lots of space...like bedroom sized cages as adults. They live 20 or more years...males can be temperamental during mating season, or all the time if not socialized properly. Females can produce infertile eggs and may suffer problems with egg binding etc. Not to mention a pissed off adult green iguana uses its tail like a whip, can deliver a nasty bite and have big claws which can rip through human skin with ease....On top of all this, I also learned they are extremely difficult to rehouse if one has to find a new home for it, as so many people end up surrendering or trying to sell these lizards when they start to out grow the 20 gal tanks pet stores swore is all they need.
Fortunately, after learning all this about green iguanas I discovered another lizard I never heard of before, bearded dragons. Sure they needed similar heat and light as green iguanas, but they don't get anywhere near as big, averaging about 18-20" and rarely exceeding 24", had a much calmer disposition and not prone to tail whipping, biting or scratching. Also, they didn't live anywhere near as long (at the time most seemed to live an average of 6 years). That and the idea of owning a 'dragon' even one that was nothing like the mythical creature which has fascinated me since I was a child, appealed to me. Thus I switch my research to learning more about bearded dragons.
In the process of my research, I came across www.kingsnake.com. It didn't take me long to realize what a wonderful resource this site was and I registered and starting reading old posts in the bearded dragon forum, then other forums as my interest in reptiles grew. I also spent a fair bit of time in the exotics section of the website, since I also enjoyed keeping many pocket pets.
I have learned many new things about bearded dragons over the years, read what different breeders, large and small, have to say about dragon care and after more than 8 years, I know more about proper dragon diets than I do proper human diets. (actually in alot of ways, a healthy bearded dragon diet would work quite efficiently for a human diet...as long as the 'insects' are substituted by meat more palatable to humans (ie chicken instead of crickets).
Even though its been a long time since I started researching dragons, I feel there is always new things to learn and continue to conduct research and view new things with an open mind. I hope future owners of breaded dragons and other reptiles continue to research well after they purchased their new pet as there are always new information coming out. Some new information may not be the best, but some are better. I also hope new comers research the animal they want before buying it, to make sure it is something they can provide for for the entire life of the animal.
That really is the question at least these days....
I hear so often people gripping about not selling their babies, having to buy more caging to house them since they continue to grow, yada yada yada....
Here is a suggestion to those who are having a tough time with moving animals, don't breed them so much. What?! The reason the animals are moving is simply supply and demand. Too much supply and not enough demand. Don't worry I won't school you on basic economics (or advanced economic theory for that matter), but I am reminding young/inexperienced hobbyists the downside to breeding. You should actually PLAN your breedings beyond the hatching of eggs. You need to plan to house them, feed them and yes hang on to them for a year or two in case they don't sell quickly.
I don't claim to be good at pricing and marketing reptiles, I am pretty good at breeding them and sometimes too good for my own good. I am a hobbyist with a decent sized collection (my friends and family would argue this point) and love to breed my animals. The excitement of the breeding season is almost euphoric and yet must be tempered with some restraint. Too much of a good thing, and well, you get my point. So what does one do when you have a banner year and a not so banner time selling the animals? Be creative. It is called USP or Unique Selling Proposition, come up with something that markets you differently from others. In the reptile business, we thrive and survive on what is exotic. But be honest and be supportive, because people expect that from a breeder. For those who like descriptive phrases, "don't crap where you eat..."
And if at the end the season you have lots of babies, hold off breeding next year or scale back. You and your animals will do better then. Budget for the upkeep, plan your time or find friends who are willing to help out either by sharing effort or even fostering animals you want to holdback.
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