herpetofauna - Long Island Herpetological Society
Transcription
herpetofauna - Long Island Herpetological Society
HERPETOFAUNA Journal Support the LIHS JOIN or RENEW NOW Membership $25.00 of the Long Island Herpetological Society January / February / March / April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 Behind every HERPER is a GREAT MOM ( WHO else would put up with us??? ) NEXT LIHS MEETING: Sunday, May 16th, 2010 Rich Hume – Corn Snakes – “The Best Snake Ever” 2nd Annual LIHS AUCTION – June 13th, 2010 TOPIC Presidents Message – Spring 2010 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Herp Day Constrictor Action Page LIHS Executive Board & Contact Information Don’t Mess with My Pet nd LIHS 2 Annual Auction Crisis for the World’s Amphibians ER to PR: Veterinary Medicine on the Run Launch for Amphibian ‘Life Raft’ Hopping Mad about Money “The GOOD” and “The BAD” Venom Emergency Venom Hunters Eastern Indigo Devours Snake Pictorial Boback’s Boas New Philippines Dragon-sized Lizard Harry to the Rescue Retro Reptile Ad Page TOPIC Page 2 3 Retro Reptile Ad German Caught Smuggling Geckos in Lederhosen 39 41 4 6 8 9 10 13 14 17 20 21 24 32 35 37 38 39 New Zealand gets Tough on Smugglers One Legged Snake Sprouts make Turtles Flatulent Too A Frog He Would A-Pooing Go Rattlesnakes Courting Pictorial st 21 Annual LIHS Reptile & Amphibian Show Green Frog Climbs the Food Chain Radiated Tortoise’s Downfall Scientists Reveal Secret Disposal System of Frogs White Lizards Evolve in New Mexico Dunes Tarantula Shoots Sharp Hairs into Owner’s Eye Rare Crocs Found Hiding in Plain Sight Snapping Turtle Grabs Boy’s Face Herp Web Sites / Video Clips to Check Out The Herp Marketplace LIHS Meeting / Event Dates & Information 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 51 53 54 55 58 59 60 66 PRESIDENT MESSAGE Spring 2010 Spring has sprung & summer is just around the corner. A lot is going on at the LIHS and we have much to look forward to. Last June we had our very first Reptile Auction and because of its great success we will be having it again this June. So now is the time to go & select those Reptile related items (or maybe not Reptile related) and dust them off or clean them out to get ready for the Auction. A lot of fun is had & you just might pick up that certain something you were always looking for. Like last year, we will have some donations Items from Zoo Med & for the first time, our good friends at Ophiological Services in Florida will be sending a few snakes up for the Auction. So please come & help support the club. On the political front – I was invited to Washington D.C. on April 21 by the Assistant Chief Counsel Office of Advocacy, U.S. Small Business Administration. A meeting was setup by the Small Business Administration to find out the impact of the recent US Fish & Wildlife “Rule Change “to add nine species of Pythons & Boas to the Lacey Act. The US Fish & Wildlife Service was represented at this meeting by three officers (a Biologist & 2 invasive species specialist). For the Pictured ( Left – Right ) - LIHS President, Vin Russo, Bill Reptile Industry there was Bill Brandt, Peter Kahl, Adam Wysoki. Brandt of Gourmet Rodent in Florida ( a distributor for Petco ), Board Members of PIJAC ( Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council) Marshall Meyer & Dr. Jamie Reesser, President of USARK Andrew Wyatt & his lobbyists, Jay Brewer of Prehistoric Pets in California, Chad Peelings of Clyde Peelings Reptile Land ( Representing the AZA ), Gary Bagnall of Zoo Med, Representatives of “Ship Your Reptiles.com”, Pete Kahl of Peter Kahl Reptiles in Maryland, Andrew Wysoki from NatPet and obviously myself (representing my business – Cutting Edge Herpetological, Inc. & the LIHS). Many topics were covered in our long meeting. First & most importantly was the “Business” end of it. The Small Business Administration is obviously concerned about the impact this Rule Change can have on the Pet Industry. They asked for numbers from us. For example they wanted to know the numbers of Boa constrictors that are born in Captivity in the US from private & commercial breeders. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 2 Luckily Zoo Med & Petco had some numbers but they put the most emphasis on the fact that it’s not the snake sales they count on – it’s the dry goods that go with them. Zoo Med also emphasized the fact that most of their products are manufactured here in the US and not jobbed out to China. PIJAC had statistics that the Reptile arm of the Pet Industry is the only part of the Pet Industry that has grown in the past 5 years (even in a down economy) and that snakes represent a huge part of it. And “Ship Your Reptiles.com “ gave numbers of Boxes shipped ( along with Petco & Petsmart numbers ) and expressed a worry in that Airlines will not ship any snakes if the Rule change goes into effect in fear of Lacey Act Violations. Lastly – I covered the ecological / Business end by showing the job potential of Captive Breeding programs here in the U.S. (without ever having to take animals from the wild – while creating jobs). All in all I think it went well. I just hope that US Fish & Wildlife took all that was said to heart & will hopefully come up with an amicable solution. See you all at the next meetings. Vin Russo President LIHS LIHS EXHIBITION COLD SPRING HARBOR FISH HATCHERY & AQUARIUM HERP DAY Saturday, June 19th, 2010 12:00 – 5:00 PM OUTDOORS – Fun for the Family Visit the HATCHERY for FREE ( only if you are VOLUNTEERING ) We need VOLUNTEERS to man tables and exhibit their herps. If you can VOLUNTEER ( and I hope you can ), PLEASE contact me; Rich Meyer, Jr., at [email protected]. More information coming at the Monthly Meetings and e-mail LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 3 CONSTRICTOR ACTION LEGISLATION PAGE TAKE ACTION NOW http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/ COMMENTS DUE BY May 11, 2010 to be considered In 2009, the Senate introduced bill S. 373. If passed, this bill would have had the same impact as the US Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) proposed rule change (see first blog entry Proposed Rule Change: Background Information). In response to S. 373, two long-time large constrictor enthusiasts and businessmen - Vincent Russo and Bob Ashley - wrote thoughtful, constructive letters that address the potential impacts of the S. 373...and they shared their letters with PIJAC. We encourage you to read these letters in order to get a sense of the appropriate tone and content for your comments on the USFWS proposed rule change. The SAMPLE LETTERS can be located at: http://ws816213.websoon.com/_documents/russo_s373_letter.pdf http://ws816213.websoon.com/_documents/s_373_ashley_letter.pdf Your comments on the proposed rule change MUST be submitted through the designated US Fish and Wildlife (USFWS) process in order to be considered. It is VITAL that you make "substantive" comments. Please carefully read our entries on "how to comment" prior to drafting your submission. Then... Go to the following website to submit your comments: http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#submitComment?R=090000648 0abc25c LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 4 REMEMBER - PIJAC would like a copy of the comments that you submit to the USFWS on the proposed rule change. Please send a COPY of your comments to: [email protected] with "Large Constrictor Comments" in the subject line Be sure to let us know if we can share your comments as examples. Thank you! Posted by PIJAC http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/2010/04/sample-letters.html April 25, 2010 LIHS EDITOR Note: in addition to the SAMPLE LETTERS ( above ) you might also check out the following: How to Comment Effectively o http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-commenteffectively.html Where/When to Submit Comments o http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/2010/04/wherewhen-tosubmit-comments.html PIJAC Review of USGS Risk Assessment o http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/2010/04/pijac-review-of-usgsrisk-assessment.html Proposed Rule Change: Background Info o http://actnow4constrictors.blogspot.com/2010/04/proposed-rulebackground-info.html LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 5 FINDING YOUR NY GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES If you go to the New York State Board of Elections website: NY State Board of Elections or http://nymap.elections.state.ny.us/nysboe/ you will be able to find the following information: New York Officials: David A. Paterson, Governor Richard Ravitch, Lt. Governor U.S. Senators: Kirsten E. Gillibrand Charles Schumer U.S. Congress Representative State Senate Senator State Assembly Member CLICKING on the LINK of each listed party will provide the contact information (“SNAIL MAIL” address ) that will be necessary to “SNAIL MAIL” a letter to the chosen party. ”SNAIL MAIL” is much more effective ( so, if you feel the need, “SNAIL MAIL” first, then Email ). NOT SURE what DISTRICT you are located in, there are boxes to input your home address, which will then locate the appropriate district and parties ( when different ). 2009 / 2010 LIHS Executive Board The following LIHS Members ran for and were appointed ( by cast ballot – November 15th, 2009 ) to the LIHS Executive Board Offices as follows: President: Vin Russo Treasurer: Rich Hume Vice-President: John Heiser Sergeant-at-Arms: Mike Russo 2nd Vice-President: Kirk Peters Secretary: Ed Bennett Programs Coordinator: Rich Meyer, Jr. LIHS Executive Board 2009 / 2010 President: Vice-President: 2nd Vice-President: Secretary: Sergeant-at-Arms: Treasurer: Programs Coordinator: Herpetofauna Editor: Vin Russo John Heiser Kirk Peters Ed Bennett Mike Russo Rich Hume Rich Meyer, Jr. Rich Meyer, Jr. Contact the LIHS Web: www.LIHS.org E-mail: [email protected] Tel: ( 631 ) 884-5447 Mail: 476 North Ontario Avenue Lindenhurst, New York 11757-3909 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 6 GUT LOADING Hi All, A couple of quick items… THANKS to Penn Plax Pet Products for donating the terrarium and several other items used in the Terrarium Basics presentation back in January. Soon as I can reconstruct the photos I will put them in a journal. THANKS to John Heiser for putting together and doing the presentation. THANKS to John for getting a speaker for the LIHS Dinner. Great presentation as usual... Mike Russo – THANKS for saving our butts when we needed a PPT Projector ( much appreciated ).. Vin Russo, THANKS for staying on top of reptile legislation, and ditto to Ed Bennett for keeping me informed as well. Rich H., Kirk, Harry, what more needs to be said --- Those of you who show up at the Monthly Meetings - THANK YOU… and finally THANKS to our MOM’s – HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY.. Don’t forget the LIHS Auction on June 13th, and the HERP DAY Exhibition at Cold Spring Harbor on June 19th ( the more VOLUNTEERS, the merrier ).. It’s a nice day out… How about giving back some time to the society ( you don’t have to stay the whole day – BUT, it is nice.. And you can check out the hatchery. Please join the new PIJAC Program; “Don’t Mess with MY PET” ( see next page ). It is in your best interest if you hope to own ANY pet ( other than a dog or cat – and maybe not even those ) in the future. Rich Meyer, Jr. LIHS Editor JOINING the LIHS or RENEWING an LIHS Membership You can JOIN the LIHS or RENEW an LIHS Membership in several manners. Join or Renew at a meeting or LIHS Event or MAIL your completed LIHS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION with $25.00 payment ( cash [ meetings only ], check or money order ) made to the LIHS. Not sure if your RENEWAL is due?? Email me at < [email protected] > Print out an LIHS membership application from our website at: http://www.lihs.org/files/member.htm or “CLICK” on LIHS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION . Fill it out and bring to a meeting or mail it to: LIHS 476 North Ontario Avenue Lindenhurst, New York 11757-3909 As ALL LIHS JOURNALS will now be sent ELECTRONICALLY, so, PLEASE include an EMAIL ADDRESS with your LIHS Membership / Renewal Application. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 7 Don’t Mess with My Pet™ Protect responsible pet ownership Since 1970, the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) has protected pets and the pet industry – promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, fostering environmental stewardship, and ensuring the availability of pets. PIJAC members include retailers, companion animal suppliers, manufacturers, wholesale distributors, manufacturers’ representatives, pet hobbyist groups, and other trade organizations. Through the combined voice of these people, PIJAC serves the best interests of the entire pet industry. For more information, please visit www.pijac.org. You love your pet. You take good care of your pet. How would you feel if the government tried to limit your ability to have pets in your life? ...Angry? ...Scared? ...Betrayed? ...Well, it’s happening. Each year, local, state and federal governments propose thousands of laws that would restrict your ability to own pets – to include pets as vital members of your family. While we believe that some regulations are warranted to ensure that pets are well care for, we also believe that responsible pet ownership should be applauded, supported, and encouraged, not limited! Unfortunately, many government officials don’t understand how their bills might affect you, the responsible pet owner. Furthermore, they may be basing their decisions on propaganda that, while it seems to call for better pet care, is actually part of an agenda to end pet ownership. Help us protect responsible pet ownership by defending you and your pets against misdirected and poorly crafted legislation. Support the “Don’t Mess with My Pet™” campaign by becoming a Member of the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC). Your $25 contribution you will help us guard responsible pet ownership…on behalf of you and your non-human family members. As a thank you from us, you’ll receive a free campaign t-shirt. Visit these links: "Don't Mess With My Pet" Video "Don't Mess With My Pet" Website or http://www.dontmesswithmypet.org/ PIJAC Government Affairs or http://www.pijac.org/governmentaffairs/ LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 8 Come one, Come All 2nd Annual LIHS Auction th ~ June 13 , 2010 ~ ALL are WELCOME and Encouraged to ATTEND Bring your NEW and GENTLY USED items ( Reptile and/or Non-Reptile Related ) Time: 1:00 to 4:00 PM Location: Farmingdale State University - Conference Center Park in Student Lot #3 and walk to the Conference Center The AUCTION will be held at the Conference Center (Bldg. 76) SUNY-Farmingdale Campus Map ( Conference Center ) http://www.lihs.org/files/FSUNY_MAP.jpg You can do either a STRAIGHT UP ITEM DONATION ( DONATE the ITEM to the LIHS, and “ALL” proceeds benefit the society ) or a 50/50 ( Proceeds are split equally between the seller and society ) Make yourself a few $$$$ and Benefit the LIHS Questions: Visit the LIHS Website: www.LIHS.org; contact Rich Meyer at: [email protected] or CALL: ( 631 ) 884-5447 ( leave a message ) LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 9 Crisis for the World’s Amphibians VIEWPOINT Helen Meredith It is a time of crisis for the world's amphibians, says Helen Meredith. In this week's Green Room she says we may be facing our last chance to save this important group of animals. A third of all species of amphibian are threatened with extinction; nearly half are in decline, and they are the most threatened of all the vertebrate groups. If allowed to continue, the projected losses would constitute the largest mass extinction since the disappearance of the dinosaurs. But first things first; what are amphibians and why should we care about their decline? Amphibians are one of nature's less familiar groups - an issue that presents major challenges to establishing the conservation action they so urgently require. They have been around on the planet for about 360 million years, arising over 100 million years before the first mammal and 200 million years before the first bird. “They consume huge quantities of invertebrates, including humanity's most vilified pests and their crucial role in global ecosystems helps maintain healthy functioning environments.” Great survivors Modern amphibians comprise frogs, toads, salamanders, newts and caecilians (limbless amphibians), and number in excess of 6,000 species to date. More than 20% are not understood well enough to be assigned any conservation status and it is estimated that up to 10,000 species may exist in total. They are found on every continent except Antarctica, ranging from the Arctic Circle to the tropical deserts. Of all the vertebrates, amphibians lead some of the strangest lives. Various species can survive partial freezing, 10 years without food, long droughts and temperatures of up to 40° C ( 104° F ). They are among life's great survivors, enduring mass extinction events that have wiped out the dinosaurs and whole swathes of mammals and birds. In this light, their current extinction crisis seems all the more troubling. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 10 Although they may not seem to have an impact upon the daily lives of many cultures, they provide numerous essential services to mankind. They consume huge quantities of invertebrates, including humanity's most vilified pests. Their crucial role in global ecosystems, both as predator and prey, helps maintain healthy functioning environments. Frogs are an important protein source in many subsistence cultures and are traded in their millions as food and pets. The skin secretions that protect amphibians against predation and infection have been found to contain important pharmaceutical compounds that show potential in treating a variety of illnesses from HIV to cancer. The most famous case is that of the phantasmal poison frog ( Epipedobates tricolor ) . Skin secretions from this frog yielded the compound epibatidine, which is a painkiller 200 times more effective than morphine. Amphibians are repositories of potentially life-saving chemicals and are key model organisms in scientific research. “The fight to save the world's amphibians shouts into a howling gale of climate change, war, overpopulation, economic crises, and countless other global disasters.” WHAT ARE AMPHIBIANS? First true amphibians evolved about 250m years ago There are three orders: frogs (including toads), salamanders (including newts) and caecilians, which are limbless Adapted to many different aquatic and terrestrial habitats Present today on every continent except Antarctica Many undergo metamorphosis, from larvae to adults Witnessing the precipitous decline of the amphibians is sobering. Why now, after hundreds of millions of years of survival, are they bowing out? As always, the reasons are diverse and complex. The usual suspects of habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, environmental contaminants and overexploitation represent key interrelated factors. Additionally, a disease called chytridiomycosis or "chytrid" ( caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis ) infects a wide range of amphibians globally and is capable of driving species to extinction. Exacerbated by the other issues impacting amphibians, chytrid has emerged as one of the major threats to their survival. This disease can kill amphibians in otherwise pristine habitats or provide the final nail in the coffin for species already pushed to the brink of extinction. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 11 The fight to save the world's amphibians shouts into a howling gale of climate change, war, overpopulation, economic crises, and countless other global disasters, rendering their plight (just like many other aspects of biodiversity) somewhat low on the agenda of global priorities; they are slipping away almost unnoticed. What can be done? A recent IUCN amphibian conservation summit held at the Zoological Society of London ( ZSL ) highlighted plans to launch the Amphibian Survival Alliance, which will unite existing organisations and projects working on amphibian conservation ( like ZSL's EDGE Amphibians Project ), creating a mutually supportive network. This initiative is still woefully underfunded given the urgent need for action, but represents a major step towards consolidating worldwide conservation activities to protect as many species as possible. We hope this will improve and expand the movement to protect amphibians, boosting the fundraising and publicity drive necessary to raise concern over amphibian declines and put vital conservation strategies into practice. To lend perspective, the original cost of the global Amphibian Conservation Action Plan was equivalent to about one and a half Boeing 747 aeroplanes. Photo: R A Mittermeir The latest plans drawn up at the summit would cost just one tenth of this sum, and would at least make progress towards saving a third of the world's amphibians. Initially tackling the two main threats to amphibian survival, disease and habitat destruction, the Amphibian Survival Alliance will require major political backing and financial support if it is to achieve its objectives. o It represents the best hope for amphibians at this most critical and desperate time. o Amphibians are widely viewed as the "canaries in the coalmine" for environmental change. o Despite their glorious past, they simply cannot withstand the current onslaught. Tellingly, the very same factors that threaten amphibians also endanger all other life on Earth, not least humans. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 12 If we cannot rectify the amphibian extinction crisis, then what does this mean for the future of mankind? Saving the world's amphibians is a crucial part of the puzzle in guaranteeing our own sustainable existence. I hope we will act before it is too late for us all. Helen Meredith is a conservation scientist from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) The Green Room is a series of opinion articles on environmental topics running weekly on the BBC News website Helen, Great article, please look at our blog, we're in this fight together! http://frogsaregreen.com Susan Newman, Jersey City, NJ USA A weekly series of thought-provoking opinion pieces on environmental topics Story from BBC NEWS http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/science/nature/8292690.stm Published: 2009/10/06 © BBC MMIX ER to PR: Veterinary Medicine on the Run By Dr. Robert Monaco, DVM, DABVP Informative and funny, ER to PR: Veterinary Medicine on the Run is like a modern day James Herriot novel with New York wit and supercharged with adrenaline. If you love pets, running or just enjoy a good laugh, you will love this book. Critics give it two paws up! Dr. Monaco, first time author, long time veterinarian and runner will take you on a journey through the exciting world of veterinary medicine and racing. Never before has this been done. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your pet and start reading! http://www.ertopr.com/ $13.95 plus NY sales tax for NY residents ( 8.625% ) Shipping and handling is $5.00 inside the US ( up to 2 books ) Avoid shipping costs and purchase a copy at Old Country Animal Clinic, 669 Old Country Road, Plainview, NY 11803, ( 516 ) 938-7218 http://oldcountryanimalclinic.com/index.html LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 13 Launch for Amphibian 'Life RAFT' By Richard Black Environment correspondent, BBC News website Conservationists have launched a new initiative aimed at safeguarding the world's amphibians from extinction. The Amphibian Survival Alliance will bring together existing projects and organisations, improving co-ordination, scientific research and fund-raising. About a third of amphibian species are threatened with extinctions. A two-day summit held last week in London identified the two main threats as destruction of habitat and the fungal disease chytridiomycosis. "The world's amphibians are facing an uphill battle for survival," said James Collins, co-chair of the Amphibian Specialist Group (ASG) coordinated by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). "By far the worst threats are infectious disease and habitat destruction, so the Alliance will focus on these issues first." Last week's meeting, held at the Zoological Society of London ( ZSL ), declared that research into possible treatments for the chytrid fungus should be a top priority. Identified only a decade ago, the fungus now infects amphibians in the Americas, Australia, Europe, Asia and Africa. How it originated and how it kills are matters of ongoing research. A World of Amphibians “If we want to stop the amphibian extinction crisis, we have to protect the areas where amphibians are threatened by habitat destruction” ~ Claude Gascon, ASG But in practical terms, finding something that can stop it in open country rather than the laboratory is the big challenge. Researchers have found that some amphibian species carry chemicals on their skin that provide a natural defence. The idea is to see whether these chemicals can be turned into something that can attack the fungus in the wild, providing a defence for species that currently have none. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 14 The new Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA) sees this line of research as an urgent priority. More difficult to tackle will be the ongoing destruction of habitat that is a concern in most continents, but especially in parts of Asia that are seeing rapid expansion of cities, industry and infrastructure. "If we want to stop the amphibian extinction crisis, we have to protect the areas where amphibians are threatened by habitat destruction," said Claude Gascon, the Amphibian Specialist Group's other co-chair. "One of the reasons amphibians are in such dire straits is because many species are only found in single sites and are therefore much more susceptible to habitat loss." WHAT ARE AMPHIBIANS? First true amphibians evolved about 250m years ago There are three orders: frogs (including toads), salamanders (including newts) and caecilians, which are limbless Adapted to many different aquatic and terrestrial habitats Present today on every continent except Antarctica As a group, amphibians are considerably more threatened than birds, mammals, fish or reptiles. Apart from habitat loss and chytrid, issues of concern are: unsustainable hunting for food, medicine and the pet trade chemical pollution climatic change introduced species other infectious diseases The formation of the ASA was proposed in 2006 but adequate financial and institutional backing did not materialise. At that stage scientists were divided over how money Many undergo metamorand resources should be split between conservation in the wild and captive breeding. phosis, from larvae to adults Now there is general agreement that both strategies are necessary. Initial backing emerged at the ZSL meeting in the form of a $200,000 pledge that will fund the ASA coordinator's post for two years. Reprinted from the BBC NEWS http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/science/nature/8222549.stm Published: 2009/08/26 13:37:03 GMT © BBC MMIX http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8222549.stm LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 15 PHOTOS below are from the previous article ABOVE: Hundreds of amphibian species will become extinct unless a global action plan is put into practice very soon, conservationists warn. ( Glass tree frog - R.D. Holt ) ABOVE: More than a third of all amphibian species are said to be in peril. ( Golden mantella R.A. Mittermeier ) ABOVE: Campaigners are forming an Amphibian Survival Alliance to carry through a rescue strategy. ( Centrolene tayrona Fundacion Pro aves ) ABOVE: The two main threats are habitat loss and the fungal disease chytridiomycosis. Climate change, hunting and pollution are other issues of concern. ( Sphenophryne cornuta - S. Richards ) ABOVE: The new Amphibian Survival Alliance will co-ordinate conservation efforts with a particular interest in field treatments for the chytrid fungus. ( Dendrobates azureus - R.A. Mittermeier ) ABOVE: There are about 6,000 known amphibians, a category that includes frogs, toads, salamanders and caecilians ( legless amphibians ). ( Albericus siegfriedi - S. Richards ) ABOVE: In particular, the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, first identified 1998, is doing widespread damage in parts of the Americas, Australia and Europe. ( Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis - P. Naskrecki ) LEFT: "We simply cannot afford to let this current amphibian extinction crisis go unchecked," said Simon Stuart, chair of IUCN's Species Survival Commission. ( Centrolene tayrona - Fundacion Pro aves ) LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 16 Hopping Mad About Money Richard Black For some things, half a billion dollars might be a hefty sum to pay. But for the survival of the world's threatened amphibian species? Cheap at the price, you might think; but almost no-one, as yet, is paying. It was almost exactly four years ago that the Amphibian Conservation Summit, held in a boutique hotel in Washington DC, came up with the half-a-billion price tag (well, just over $400m to be precise), and initiated the Amphibian Conservation Action Plan [ 667 Kb pdf ] aimed at keeping the remaining species alive. That was their estimate of how much it would cost to protect the 120 most vital pieces of habitat, re-introduce 20 captive-reared species to the wild, restrain unsustainable hunting, establish emergency response teams that could intervene quickly when sudden extinction threatened - and everything else that needed doing. PHOTO: ANDREW GRAY This week, many of the scientists and conservationists who attended that meeting convened in a somewhat scholarly pavilion at the Zoological Society of London (with a cracking view of the wallaby enclosure) to look at how far things have come since then, what's worked and what hasn't, and to home in on two or three priorities for research and conservation in the years ahead. Conserving amphibians is no academic exercise. The threat to many species' very existence is alarmingly real, most pressingly because of the fungal disease chytridiomycosis that was identified just a decade ago. In a book published just before the London "mini-summit", two of the field's leading lights, Martha Crump and James Collins, point out that diseases aren't supposed to cause extinctions. The pathogen's path through a vulnerable population should slow and stop as new victims become scarcer and scarcer, like a fire running out of fuel. Chytridiomycosis doesn't appear to play by this rule. Somehow - and there is still much debate about precisely how and why - it is removing entire species from the realm of existence, sometimes in just one or two years, in regions as far apart as Central America and Australia. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 17 At the London meeting, Professor Collins (from Arizona State University) unsurprisingly nailed the chytrid fungus as one of the two causes of extinction that merited urgent attention - the other being land use change. Everyone agreed that these should be the priorities for action and funding; but what funding? Last year was supposed to be the Year of the Frog. Zoos, aquaria and conservation groups ran special awareness-raising events. Schoolchildren raised money through raffles, collecting coins and selling ceramic frogs they had made. Luminaries such as Sir David Attenborough and Jean-Michel Cousteau called for action; Kermit the Frog from The Muppets went to Capitol Hill. It may have raised awareness in some quarters; but money appears to be another thing entirely. GETTY IMAGES Kevin Zippel, programme director at Amphibian Ark, the organisation that co-ordinates captive breeding programmes in zoos and other institutions, reckoned that those zoos and other institutions had raised at most 1% of the half a billion dollars. Claude Gascon, who co-chairs the Amphibian Specialist Group, said that perhaps 2% of the desired sum had been gathered and disbursed for on-site conservation projects, core staffing, and so on. This is not to say that nothing has happened in the last four years. The number of species in captive breeding programmes has more than doubled, to 95, though only a minority meet international best practice standards. Eleven key sites have been protected in key countries such as Sri Lanka and Colombia. But these are drops in the pond compared to what is needed. And although many of the scientists involved in the various amphibian initiatives work on other types of animal too, jealous eyes were occasionally levelled at the comparatively huge resources that bird groups can command, such as Britain's Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, which was able to disburse £78m ($129m) in 2007 alone. From the perspective of logic, this is crazy. Globally, birds are much less threatened than amphibians; the latest Red List assessments put one eighth of bird species in the threatened categories, compared to one third of amphibians. And whereas just 0.5% of amphibian species are increasing in number, 6% of bird species are growing. If the conclusions of a 2004 report from BirdLife International still hold true, that's at least in LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 18 part due to the money and resources that have been made available to help them - money that is not flowing to the frogs. But of course it's not about logic, it's about emotion; and currently, in richer nations, emotion holds that birds are more compelling than the delicate "glass frogs" of Central and South America, the squat purple burrowing frog ( LEFT ) of India and the extravagantly decorated Mantella of Madagascar. Politicians are generally showing little interest, meeting delegates reported. Members of the US Congress are being lobbied to develop a conservation act for amphibians, as they have for great apes, elephants and tigers - mandating federal funds for conservation inside and outside the country - but there's little appetite, it seems. There would doubtless be more if constituents were interested enough to lobby. Even with resources, though, keeping the number of amphibian extinctions down is a tall order. Despite promising laboratory results, field treatments for chytrid exist as yet only in the imagination of scientists. The burgeoning cities, roads and industries of East Asia will not stop burgeoning just because a few amphibians are hopping across their path. In one of the very early pieces in our Green Room series, Tim Halliday, who then headed the Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force, argued that the chances of stopping these extinctions were little more than nil - and conservationists should admit it and stop trying to delude the public ( and themselves ) into thinking otherwise. Debate at this week's London meeting focused for a while on whether setting a goal of preventing 100% of extinctions was feasible or desirable; so clearly Professor Halliday's pessimistic assessment isn't shared across the board. But, as we've discussed several times on these pages, setting a target isn't the same as meeting it, which requires commitment, expertise and resources. Two of these things the amphibian conservation community has in spades. It's the third that worries me; and I fear that the missing half billion will be translated with increasing surety into the number of amphibian species that now populate only the history books. Reprinted from BBC NEWS EARTH WATCH http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/richardblack/2009/08/for_some_things_half_a.html Published August 21, 2009 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 19 THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF PEOPLE WHO GIVE THE HOBBY A REPUTATION “THE GOOD” and “THE BAD” Let’s start with the “BAD (Floral Park Resident Bitten by Pet Rattlesnake )”, followed by “THE GOOD ( “Venom Emergency!” and “Venom Hunters” )” – LIHS Editor Floral Park Resident Bitten By Pet Rattlesnake By Melissa Argueta A Floral Park man was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx after being bitten on the hand by his pet diamondback rattlesnake at his Oak Street home on March 25, authorities said. Floral Park Police and Nassau County Police arrived at the residence to find several animals living inside the basement. The pet owner, Robert Lantier, 31, housed a variety of illegal reptiles, including a 4- to 5-foot-long cobra, two baby eyelash vipers; an albino diamondback rattlesnake, a 3-footlong crocodile monitor; and a bamboo viper. According to Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross, the Nassau County Police requested the agency’s Special Emergency Response Team to ensure the public’s safety. The team did not act as law enforcement officers, but were brought in to expertly remove the animals from the location. Gross told the Floral Park Dispatch that the animals have since been transported safely to reptile sanctuary out of the state. Gross stressed the growing problem of individuals who want to own exotic pets, but don’t know how to handle them. “Besides being illegal, it’s unfair to the animal and it’s a big risk to the community,” he said. The number of cases of illegal reptiles has “occurred quite often” on Long Island, he explained. “It’s a danger to the public and it’s unacceptable,” Gross said. Floral Park Dispatch http://www.antonnews.com/floralparkdispatch/news/7099-floral-park-resident-bitten-by-pet-rattlesnake.html Posted: April 02, 2010 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 20 Venom Emergency! Biologists and physicians are trying to determine why rattlesnake bites in the West have seemed more dangerously toxic in recent years By Michael Tennesen IN SUMMER 2008, a 29-year-old man was clearing brush in the mountains near Fallbrook, California, when he was bitten by a southern Pacific rattlesnake. He tried to grab the snake and was bitten again. By the time he made it to the Palomar Medical Center, says Dr. Roy Johnson, a private physician who has treated more than 700 rattlesnake bites, “The patient was delirious, having trouble breathing and was in a state of total body contractions with every muscle twitching. Without treatment, he was on a fast track to dying.” Johnson and his emergency team put the victim on a mechanical ventilator and used medication to paralyze all his muscles. The young man also received 36 vials of antivenom ( 10 to 12 is normal ). He was released after two days. According to Johnson, severe snakebites of this sort have become increasingly familiar to his practice. University of California-San Diego Medical Center toxicologists reported a rash of unusually powerful snakebites and extreme patient reactions in 2008. Dr. Steven Curry, director of medical toxicology at the Banner Poison Control Center in Phoenix, Arizona, reports that prior to 2002 his facility saw patients with neurological symptoms like those of the Fallbrook man once every two or three years; “Now we see several of these patients every year,” he says. Dr. Richard Dart, director of the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, says, “Over the last two or three years, we are having a sustained peak of neurotoxic effects.” VENOM drips from the hollow fangs of a captive prairie rattlesnake. About 7,000 venomous snakebites, mostly by rattlesnakes, are recorded in the United States each year; only about 15 are fatal, but a quarter of people bitten by rattlers suffer some permanent damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tally about 7,000 venomous snakebites annually in the United States. Venomous copperheads, cottonmouths and even relatively small coral snakes are responsible for a portion of these, but most snakebite emergencies involve rattlesnakes. Only about 15 fatalities result each year—about 0.2 percent of all bites—but snakebites can cause lasting harm without killing. “Fully 25 percent of all snakebite victims incur some permanent damage from a rattlesnake bite,” says Jude McNally, director of the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. According to Dr. Richard Clark, director of medical toxicology at the University of California–San Diego School of Medicine, rattlesnake venom, a complex brew of toxins, “possesses three main components: cytotoxic components that kill cells, hemotoxic components that affect blood and neurotoxic LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 21 components that attack nerves.” Neurotoxic effects, like those experienced by the Fallbrook victim, are the quickest acting and more life threatening. Until recently, biologists believed that Mojave rattlesnakes were the only rattlesnakes to produce neurotoxic venom, but lately neurotoxic effects have been showing up in snakebites from eastern diamondbacks, southern Pacific rattlers and timber rattlesnakes as well. Dr. Clark thinks that all snakes produce neurotoxins; “Mojave’s may just have more,” he says. The use of venom is a venomous snake’s primary means for capturing prey. Snake venom immobilizes prey, gives it a distinctive odor so the snake can track it down and helps pre-digest the snake’s meal. That digestive function kills tissue, creating the most long-term problems for people who survive snakebites. As a defense strategy, biting is not all that useful to a rattlesnake. It is more advantageous for the snake to scare off a potentially dangerous creature, such as a human, than to strike—hence the renowned rattle. According to McNally, if given a chance to escape without biting, a rattlesnake usually will take it. “Snake venom is the snake’s money. It needs that to get its next meal. If it bites us, it’s not going to gain anything.” Some scientists speculate that the increasing potency of some rattlesnakes may be the product of an arms race between predator and prey. Texas A&M University researcher John C. Perez studied 40 mammal species that are natural prey of rattlesnakes and found 16 had chemicals in their blood that have evolved over time to block the venom effects of western diamondback rattlers. Researchers at the University of California-Davis found substances in the California ground squirrel that did the same for the venom of northern Pacific rattlesnakes. King snakes, which prey on rattlesnakes, have developed immunity to rattlesnake poison that works so well, says Dr. Sean Bush, professor of Emergency Medicine at the Loma Linda University Medical Center, that “rattlesnakes don’t bite or coil when they see a king snake.” They just try to get away. A SOUTHERN Pacific rattlesnake extends its tongue, allowing the tips to get a “taste” of its environment. This species is among those that some doctors believe have developed increased venom potency in recent years. With animals capable of evolving immunity to rattlesnake venom, is it possible that the snakes have had to adjust their venoms upward to avoid going hungry? Bush admits he sees more neurotoxic envenomations, but he thinks the increase in serious bites has more to do with greater numbers of people pushing into snake territory than with the snakes getting more toxic. He does not rule out the possibility that snake venom could evolve greater toxicity in response to prey resistance, but, he says, “This is something that has happened over the millennia, not in the last few years.” LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 22 A Painful Bite Rattlesnake venom, injected through hollow fangs, attacks blood cells and also pre-digests tissue around the bite. Even with antivenin treatment, a bite from a rattlesnake is painful, giving a victim the feeling that the wound is being pounded for hours with a red-hot sledgehammer. Dart, however, thinks venom toxicity could evolve more quickly. “If a snake has to switch from rabbits to squirrels, a chemical messenger originating in the cells may turn on a gene that makes an enzyme in the venom that helps the snake digest squirrels,” he says. “The squirrel, on the other hand, defends itself by turning on a gene, which creates antibodies to the snake’s venom.” Squirrels lucky enough to survive a snakebite are the most likely to turn on the gene. According to Dart, long-term evolution may have created the gene, but a changing environment may activate its function. Johnson thinks that increasingly severe rattlesnake bites in California may be occurring simply because there are more southern Pacific rattlesnakes now than there were in the recent past. The species’ competitors are the red rattlesnake and the speckled rattlesnake, which rattle when people approach; as a result, “a lot of people will go kill them,” he says. The southern Pacific rattles a lot less and is generally left alone. “The reason rattlesnake venom appears to be getting more toxic is that more people are getting bit by southern Pacific Rattlesnakes, and they are one of the most toxic rattlesnakes in the country. The Southern Pacific rattlesnake may be like the coyote. It’s learned to live with us.” Now Californians may have to learn to live with it. NATIONAL WILDLIFE MAGAZINE Oct/Nov 2009, vol. 47 no. 6 http://www.nwf.org/NationalWildlife/article.cfm?issueID=131&articleID=1776 © 2009 National Wildlife Federation, All rights reserved. - Read more great stories online at www.nwf.org/nationalwildlife LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 23 Venom Hunters Scientists probe toxins, revealing the healing powers of biochemical weapons By Laura Sanders W hen the monitor lizard chomped into Bryan Fry, it did more than turn his hand into a bloody mess. Besides ripping skin and severing tendons, the lizard delivered noxious venom into Fry's body, injecting molecules that quickly thinned his blood and dilated his vessels. As the tiny toxic assassins dispersed throughout his circulatory system, they hit their targets with speed and precision, ultimately causing more blood to gush from Fry's wound. Over millions of years, evolution has meticulously shaped these toxins into powerful weapons, and Fry was feeling the devastating consequences firsthand. "I've never seen arterial bleeding before, and I really don't want to ever see it again. Especially coming out of my own arm," says Fry, a venom researcher at the University of Melbourne in Australia. To unlock the molecular secrets of venom, Fry and other researchers have pioneered a burgeoning field called venomics. With cutting-edge methods, the scientists are teasing apart and cataloging venom's ingredients, some of which can paralyze muscles, make blood pressure plummet or induce seizures by scrambling brain signals. Researchers are also learning more about how these toxins work. Discovering venom's tricks may allow scientists to rehabilitate these damaging molecules and convert them from destroyers to healers. Venom might be teeming with wonder drugs, for instance. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 24 After all, a perfect venom toxin works with lightning speed, remains stable for a long time and strikes its mark with surgical exactitude--attributes that drugmakers dream about. Already, toxins from a Brazilian viper have provided the key molecule for blood pressure-lowering drugs known as ACE inhibitors, and a medication based on cone snail venom alleviates types of chronic pain that even morphine can't touch. George Miljanich, a researcher who helped develop the snail-derived drug, calls venom an "amazing soup" with "great potential as a source of new medicine." What's more, researchers are stepping back in time to understand how the toxic proteins that make up venom evolved in different animals, revealing details on how beneficial proteins may have been recruited to the dark side and eventually become toxic. Such studies are also finding rapidly mutating toxin genes and describing how unique environmental conditions shape venoms in different animals. Despite the occupational hazards, "It's a great time to be doing this kind of research," Fry says. "With the techniques we have today, it's astounding what we can learn." What makes a venom The "amazing soup" that is venom brims with proteins and smaller pieces of proteins called peptides. "Snake venom is virtually all protein, thick as honey," says Christopher Shaw, a biological chemist at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland. Figuring out the long list of ingredients in these potent mixtures, and understanding the genetics behind the ingredients, are big challenges-ones that new research approaches are helping to address. A multinational project called CONCO represents one effort to document venomous genes. In collaboration with the J. Craig Venter Institute in Rockville, Md., CONCO scientists are now sequencing the entire genome of the project's namesake, the venomous marine cone snail Conus consors. Its genome is about the size of the human genome. The snake's 'meat tenderizer': Venom from the western diamondback rattlesnake ( Crotalus atrox ) contains a toxic protein ( left ) that targets blood vessel walls and kills tissue, earning it and similar toxins the nickname of "meat tenderizer." By analyzing the sequences of amino acids that make up such toxins in related species of snakes, Stephen Mackessy of the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley and his colleagues found that the amino acid sequence changes more rapidly in certain regions ( red ) and less frequently in other regions ( yellow ) compared with the rest of the protein ( white ). Highly changeable regions enable toxins to diversify more quickly, the team proposes. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 25 "The sequencing is moving ahead nicely," but it is no small task, says Reto Stocklin, a venom researcher at Atheris Laboratories in Geneva who leads the CONCO project. With the decoded genome in hand, researchers will be able to quickly learn details about any toxin in Conus consors venom. "Once you have a genome, it makes it easier to know what you're looking at," says Baldomero Olivera, a cone snail expert at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. But just because an organism's DNA has the gene for a protein, that doesn't mean the gene is active and the protein is produced. "As for which compounds you actually find in venom, there is much more play than we realized," says Olivera. To figure out which proteins and peptides are present in venom, scientists turn to several other approaches. One method relies on identifying messenger RNA, molecules created from DNA that carry a gene's instructions to the cell's protein-building factories. Messenger RNA analysis was used to profile the toxins made by the Komodo dragon, a lizard only recently shown to be venomous. "With the techniques we have, we can point out what the dragon is making at the time, and say with absolute certainty," says Fry, who led the analysis, which was published online May 18 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ( SN Online: 5/18/09 ). "We can almost obtain more data than we can process." In a study published online July 1 in BMC Genomics, researchers used a similar approach to identify toxins in the scorpion Scorpiopsjendeki. The scorpion venom had 10 types of compounds that scientists already knew about, but surprisingly, nine unknown classes of molecules also turned up. These mystery molecules are unlike anything else in venom, the researchers write. Researchers including St6cklin rely on mass spectrometry, in which small pieces of proteins are identified by their motion through an electromagnetic field. This process results in a "chemical fingerprint," which can be used to reconstruct the compounds in venom. Taking venoms' fingerprints has allowed researchers to make surprising finds about how venom composition can vary, even venom that comes from the same animal. For instance, in a study published in the Journal of Proteomics, St6cklin and his colleagues showed that the composition of venom milked from live C. consors differed greatly from that of venom taken from dissected C. consors venom glands. The team hypothesizes that--similar to a snail ejecting venom in natural settings--the milking allows the cone snail to control venom composition by inserting some toxins into the venom and keeping others out. Shape-shifting toxins Venomous creatures are found throughout the animal kingdom. Everyone knows to beware of envenomed snakes, spiders and scorpions. But beware, too, of shrews, sea anemones and platypuses, to name a few. Researchers estimate there to be some 100,000 venomous species, each with its own blend of venom containing, in some cases, hundreds of different toxins. "It's pretty clear that there are convergent features in all venoms," says Olivera. "But each group has its own peculiarities." LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 26 Researchers have found venom glands to be a rich source of information, not only for discerning differing molecular makeups of venoms (as in the cone snails), but also for anatomical comparisons. Such analyses could shed light on the evolution of various venomous creatures. In the Komodo dragon study, Fry and colleagues used an MRI scanner to reveal an intricate and unusual array of a dozen venom ducts, more than in other venomous lizards. The results show how the dragon's venom system may have evolved from other, older lizard species, and help solidify the notion that Komodo dragons kill their prey with a combination of a powerful bite and venom injection. Such a glimpse into the predatory life of a venomous creature has opened a research floodgate. "We've been chucking everything into the machine," says Fry. "Vampire bats, cone snails, spiders, octopuses, you name it, we're chucking it into the machine now and getting incredible images of the glands." Camilla Whittington of the University of Sydney focuses her studies on the platypus, one of just a handful of venomous mammals. "Venom in mammals is very unusual, and to see how it evolved is interesting because it might lead to insights about mammalian evolution," says Whittington. Publishing last year in Nature, she and others used data from the platypus genome to show that some platypus toxins evolved independently from those in snake venom. When venomous animals strike Toxins in venom interact with a range of targets in the human circulatory and nervous systems, leading to a variety of effects. Toxin producers A handful of groups from the roughly 100,000 known venomous animals are shown. Cone snails Bad blood: Many venoms contain toxins that can wreak havoc on the circulatory system, leading to excessive blood loss, weakness and a loss of consciousness in the victim. Some toxins expand blood vessels--a process called vasodilation--leading to a dip in overall blood pressure. Others prevent the formation of clots or aggregation of platelet cells that would stanch blood loss, making uncontrollable bleeding more likely. Cephalopods Irukandji jellyfish Lampreys Sea anemones Leeches LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 27 Hookworms Assassin bugs Dipteran insects Hymenopteran insects Fleas Scrambled signals: Toxins target several sites at the junctions, or synapses, where nerves signal muscles. On the nerve cell, molecular pores called channels that allow ions (calcium, sodium and potassium shown) to pass can be blocked or improperly activated, impairing or screwing up the messages sent from nerve to muscle. On the muscle side, messages from nerves may be muddled when ion channels are improperly opened or closed or signalreceiving molecules called receptors are improperly stimulated or inhibited. Scrambling nerve cell signals can cause paralysis or seizures. Ticks Spiders Frogs Caterpillars Scorpions Snakes [ Toxicoferan Reptiles ( lizards and snakes ) Short-tailed shrews Toxin targets: Animal icons show venomous organisms that make each of the following known toxins. Blood and blood vessels LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 28 Illustration by Nicolle Rager Fuller; Source: S, Fry Etal./Ann. Rev. of Genomics Ano Human Genetics 2009 Even though platypus venom and snake venom arose separately, the way it happened might have been similar. Many researchers think that the genes for normal, "good" proteins may have been duplicated by accident, leaving the second copy free to encode what turned into a havoc-wreaking venomous molecule. For instance, immune system proteins called defensins, which normally help fight off invading pathogens, were turned into molecules with the ability to slice up "good" proteins in victims ( usually other platypuses or dogs ), Whittington and her colleagues suggest in their report. To be king of the hill in any given environment, though, venomous animals are often forced to invest in more than one weapon. "It's like investing money in a business. No one puts all their money in a single option. It's best to diversify," says Juan Calvete, a venom researcher at the Institute of Biome- LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 29 dicine in Valencia, Spain. "It's the same philosophy in nature. A cocktail of toxins is better suited as an arsenal that can be used in quite different environments." One way proteins diversify is through mutation. Some genes that code for venom proteins mutate faster than genes that code for most other proteins. A report published online June 30 in BMC Evolutionary Biology shows how a special mutation process in toxin genes causes some snake venom proteins to change rapidly. Called accelerated segment switch, this process can make a venom toxin recognize a different target, leading to greater variety and utility. In a study published last year in the Journal of Proteome Besearch, Calvete and colleagues found that venom from Bothrops asper pit vipers in Costa Rica differed depending on the population's geographical location. Snakes that lived on one side of a steep mountain range had markedly different venom profiles from those of snakes on the other side. In the same way a particular Southern twang identifies a Texan, the composition of venom can reveal where a snake hails from, Calvete says. Repurposing venom The customized toxins in venom also make up a vast collection of potential weapons against diseases. "Venomous animals have an extraordinarily rich history in this regard," says Fry. "If you know anybody that takes high blood pressure medication, odds are they're taking a class of compounds called ACE inhibitors." The founding member of this class, says Fry, is a modified toxin from a pit viper"one of the biggest, meanest, most horrible snakes in South America." Another example comes from the cone snail Conus magus. In 2004, ziconotide, a drug based on the snail toxin omega-conopeptide MVIIa, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat chronic pain. Years earlier, Olivera had given Miljanich cone snail toxins to help with experiments on nerve cell signaling. In the experiments, conducted at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and later at Neurex Corp. in Menlo Park, Calif., Miljanich and his colleagues recognized that the omega-conopeptide MVIIa toxin blocked a specific protein crucial for moving pain signals through the spinal cord to the brain. Interfering with this protein, called the N-type calcium channel, offered a way to stop some kinds of pain better than even morphine. "We've taken advantage of 50 million years of evolution of those N-channel toxins," says Miljanich, now the CEO of the pharmaceutical company Airmid Inc. in Redwood City, Calif. Miljanich and his team at Airmid are currently working with a sea anemone toxin that has potential as a therapy for autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, psoriasis and type 1 diabetes. This toxin, he says, appears to halt rogue immune cells that are attacking the body's own tissue. The team is tweaking the toxin by adding or removing chemical groups to make the molecule more stable and effective. A growing number of researchers are exploring the wealth of molecular resources venoms offer. "We don't want to leave any potential source [ of medicines ] off our radar," Miljanich says. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 30 Beyond treating medical conditions, venom toxins may offer clues to deeper mysteries about the body and brain. "Venom has turned out to be very useful in telling us what's important about how the nervous system works," says Andres Villu Maricq, a neurobiologist and geneticist at the University of Utah. From defense to attack molecules: Some proteins in venomous creatures evolved into toxins when certain genes were duplicated. A family of molecules called beta-defensins--immune system heroes that help fight off disease-causing invaders by chopping up proteins--were repurposed as toxins in lizards and snakes and, independently, in platypuses. Nontoxic beta-defensins are common in chickens and mammals, including the platypus. This tree traces the various lineages of defensin molecules that led to the platypus toxin (dark red) as well as the lizard and snake defensin-derived toxins (blue) that probably share a common ancestor. While screening dozens of toxins from the fish-hunting cone snail Conus striatus, Stori Densen, a student in Maricq's laboratory, hit upon one that inhibited a brain process called desensitization, which alters brain cell activity by dampening nerve cell cross talk. The toxin, the researchers found, clamps open a pore that is usually shut in the desensitized brain, making the cell respond to certain signals from other ceils it normally would ignore. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 31 Understanding how brain cells communicate and having a precise way to interrupt some of those messages may offer new ways to look at neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease in the laboratory, says Maricq. "There were really no fresh approaches." In the wild, C. striatus venom causes fish to spin around, as if chasing their tails, although Maricq says he doesn't yet know exactly why. The team, which included Olivera, named this new toxin con-ikot-ikot, which means "spinning" in Filipino, and published the results June 9 in Current Biology. Olivera and other toxin hunters aim to identify more such molecules and figure out how they work. This is the next great challenge for his research, he says. "What we would like to do is be able to explore the whole biodiversity of venomous snails," says Olivera. "This opens up the possibility of a huge group of compounds that could be interesting. In my case, we've suddenly realized that looking at cone snails, what we've been looking at is only scratching the surface." Explore more Read about the cone snail venomics CONCO project at www.conco.eu/ SCIENCE NEWS August 15th, 2009 Downloaded from The FREE LIBRARY by Farlex http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Venom+hunters:+scientists+probe+toxins,+revealing+the+healing+powers...a0206173887 Accessed October 23, 2009 Illustrations from SCIENCE NEWS Eastern Indigo Devours Snake LIHS member, Mike Villalta ( sp?? ) forwarded these pictures to me ( Thanks Mike – now, if we can get you to more meetings ). They were sent to him by a friend that resides in Central Florida. Appears to be an eastern indigo snake ( Drymarchon corais couperi ) eating a rattlesnake. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 32 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 33 Some Background On The Eastern Indigo: FAST FACTS DESCRIPTION: Large, mediumbodied snake that is black as an adult, with a cream or reddish throat patch SIZE: Adults 150-180 cm (5-6 ft) WEIGHT: No data DIET: Variety of warm-blooded vertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, and birds INCUBATION: 3 months SEXUAL MATURITY: 3-4 years LIFE SPAN: Can exceed 15 years, even longer in captivity; record is 25 years RANGE: Southeastern United States including Florida, Georgia, Florida Keys, extreme southern portions of South Carolina, and Alabama HABITAT: Dry upland scrub areas POPULATION: GLOBAL No data STATUS: IUCN No data CITES Not listed USFWS Threatened FUN FACTS on the EASTERN INDIGO The eastern indigo is the largest indigenous snake to North America, reaching lengths of up to 8 feet. The eastern indigo is diurnal, living a communal existence with the gopher tortoise. It stays in the burrow to prevent dehydration. The eastern indigo snake is in severe decline. Its habitat is prime land for development because it is usually the best draining soil. Because of declining populations, the indigo is one of the most protected snakes in the US. The laws are very strict concerning touching, catching, killing, or in any way harassing the animal. At one time the indigo was a popular snake in the pet trade. It had all of the characteristics that make an animal popular; it is large, calm, and has a distinct color. The eastern indigo has one of the most varied diets of any snake in the world. It is capable of eating mammals, amphibians, birds, and even venomous snakes. But most surprising is that it is one of the only snakes known to eat young turtles. It does all of this without venom or constriction. It relies on its surprisingly strong jaws and by holding the animal down with its body. ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION: Unfortunately, because of the increasing human population in the range of the eastern indigo, its population will probably never be anywhere near previous levels. The indigo is an integral part of the scrub ecosystem, helping to control the populations of many of the species found there. Because of the relationship between the gopher tortoise and the snake, it is equally important that the tortoise is protected for the snake to thrive. Reprinted from Animals – Explore – Discover - Connect http://www.seaworld.org/animal-info/animalbytes/animalia/eumetazoa/coelomates/deuterostomes/chordata/craniata/reptilia/squamata/easternindigo-snake.htm LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 34 Boback’s Boas by Michelle Simmons Scott Boback, assistant professor of biology and snake wrangler, knows his boa constrictor, having kept them as research subjects for nearly a decade. “I tell my students, snakes can and will bite at any time,” he says. “These are not pets; they’re research animals.” No one would ever call a snake cute or cuddly, especially a boa constrictor that can reach 12 feet in length. But the dwarf island boas in Scott Boback’s research colony in the basement of Dana Hall come close. Ranging from only one-foot to six-feet long, they can charm even the most snake phobic. As a result, boas from the Snake Cayes off the coast of Belize are threatened with extinction—victims of a lucrative exotic-pet trade. “The individual populations are so small, that *they+ can be made up of 50 to 100 animals— even less on some of these islands that have really been devastated by the pet trade,” says Boback. The assistant professor of biology notes that estimates are as low as 10 on some islands. “Snakes are a valuable part of the environment,” he says. On the Belizean mainland, the boas consume lizards, birds and, most important, rodents that might harbor disease. On the islands, they subsist solely on migratory birds, keeping the avian population from exploding and using up scarce resources. Any change in habitat significantly hampers the boas’ chances for survival. Boback is studying this evolutionary divergence, and his research reveals significant differences not only between mainland and island boas but among the island boas themselves—from color to head shape and eye size. “I find it fascinating that your size dictates all of these other features of your being,” he explains. “Animals that are bigger can make more babies *and+ make them larger, faster. The rate at which you mature, the total number of offspring you can have, your survivorship—all of these things are related to size.” Working with about 56 boas from the mainland and the islands—wild caught and their offspring—Boback is trying to answer the classic nature vs. nurture question, one that continues to confound evolutionary scientists and has important implications beyond Belize. His research tries to determine just how much and how quickly an organism is able to adapt to a changing environment. For delicate ecosystems such as Snake Cayes, that answer is especially urgent, as the boas are threatened not only by the pet trade but also by the overdevelopment of vacation homes and resorts. Boback first grew interested in boas when he encountered an article about them in a pet-trade magazine. In the 1990s, he and his wife, also a biologist, bred and owned pet snakes. “I started getting LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 35 into snakes as a hobby,” he says. “Then, through my master’s program, we had snakes of all different varieties. I probably had 20-odd different species. I was crazy.” The boas of Belize offered the ideal research topic for his Ph.D. dissertation, and the islands proved a natural laboratory. So in 2002, accompanied by a crew from the National Geographic Channel, he spent seven weeks slogging through forests and marshes on the mainland and paddling from island to island. Boback returned to the United States with 16 females ( in 2003, he brought back six males ) and was featured in “The Boas of Belize,” an episode of National Geographic’s Snake Wranglers. “It’s sort of documenting my plight to get these snakes and do my project,” he says. “They shot phenomenal footage of snakes and me climbing up trees and going through the dumps of Belize trying to find snakes.” The show—which included a shot of one of his boas regurgitating an iguana—has made Boback something of a celebrity among fellow herpetologists. In 2004, Boback worked with a conservation group to measure boa populations on islands off the Honduras coast. His team estimated that in the 1980s and ’90s, anywhere from 5,000 to 15,000 were captured and exported. “There were scientific papers from people who had been to the islands and done surveys and didn’t find a single snake,” he says. His team was relieved to find boas there and see that the population was slowly rebounding. “They seemed to be somewhat OK, but they had been affected. At what stage [they were] in the recovery we weren’t sure.” He continues to work with officials there, with an emphasis on educating island residents about conservation. Since coming to Dickinson in 2007 with snakes in tow, Boback has focused on his colony. “We’re investigating *their+ physiology performance,” he explains. “We’ve established these differences in body size; there’s a lot of morphology that’s different. One of the next steps is what this means in terms of their performance. In other words, how does an island boa make it out there?” Last fall, with the help of biology students Katelyn McCann ’11, Amanda Hayes ’10 and Allison Hall ’10, Boback began measuring individual boa constriction strength and response. Biology majors Kevin Wood ’11 and Patrick McNeal ’11 help care for the snakes, hoping to earn access to research. They’re also prepping the snakes for another breeding cycle this spring to generate offspring for new projects. “These are now my pets, although they’re not treated as pets,” says Boback, noting that he is bitten regularly. “I have a very strong emotional connection to my snakes, but it’s different. I was given the opportunity to take some of these animals out of the wild, and I have a responsibility to maintain them in the best possible way.” Reprinted from the Dickinson Magazine, Spring 2010 Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA 17013 http://www.dickinson.edu/news-and-events/publications/dickinson-magazine/2010-spring/Boback’s-Boas/ April 1, 2010 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 36 Philippines Dragon-Sized Lizard is a New Species By Deborah Zabarenko, Environment Correspondent WASHINGTON (Reuters) – A dragon-sized, fruit-eating lizard that lives in the trees on the northern Philippines island of Luzon has been confirmed as a new species, scientists reported on Tuesday. Hunted for its tasty flesh, the brightly colored forest monitor lizard can grow to more than six feet in length but weighs only about 22 pounds ( 10 kg ), said Rafe Brown of the University of Kansas, whose team confirmed the find. "It lives up in trees, so it can't get as massive as the Komodo dragon, a huge thing that eats large amounts of fresh meat," Brown said by telephone. "This thing is a fruit-eater and it's only the third fruiteating lizard in the world." A Northern Sierra Madre Forest Monitor Lizard, a dragon-sized, fruit-eating lizard that lives in the trees on the northern Philippines island of Luzon, is shown in this photograph taken in April 2005 and released to Reuters on April 6, 2010. ~ REUTERS/Arvin Diesmos/National Museum of the Philippines/Handout Discovering such a large vertebrate species is extremely rare, Brown said. The lizard, a new species of the genus Varanus, is skittish and able to hide from humans, its primary predators, which could explain why it has gone undetected by scientists for so long. Biologists first saw photographs of the big, skinny lizard in 2001, when those surveying the area passed hunters carrying the lizards' colorful carcasses, but the species at that point had never been given a scientific identification. In the next few years, Brown said, ethnobiologists kept hearing stories "about these two kinds of lizard that everyone liked to eat because their flesh tasted better than the ones that lived on the ground; this thing was described as bigger and more brightly colored." The two kinds of lizard described by the local people were two names for the same animal, Brown said. CLAW SCRATCHES ON TREES In 2009, graduate students at the end of a two-month expedition kept seeing signs of the big lizard. There were claw-scratches on trees and clumps of pandanus trees, whose fruit the lizard prefers. The clumps indicated that the lizards had eaten pandanus fruit and then excreted the seeds in clusters. "It was literally in the last couple days of the expedition, we were running out of money and food and this was the payoff: they finally got this gigantic animal," Brown said. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 37 Hunters who had heard of the team's interest brought a barely-alive adult male lizard to their camp. The team euthanized the animal and did genetic tests that confirmed it as a unique species, Brown said. DNA analysis showed there was a deep genetic divergence between the new lizard and its closest relative, Gray's monitor lizard, which is also a fruit-eater but lives on the southern end of Luzon, rather than the northern end where the forest monitor lizard lives. "They are extremely secretive," Brown said of the new species. "I think that centuries of humans hunting them have made the existing populations ... very skittish and wary and we never see them. They see and hear us before we have a chance to see them, they scamper up trees before we have a chance to come around." These findings were published in the Royal Society Journal Biology Letters, with additional work by scientists in the Philippines and the Netherlands. Reprinted from Yahoo! Inc. http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20100406/sc_nm/us_science_lizard Published April 6, 2010, Accessed April 6, 2010 Contributed by LIHS Member Chris McCallister Harry to the Rescue or Turtle’s Gone Wild Recently, Harry Faustmann went on a turtle rescue. Harry found, a huge, female common snapping turtle that was apparently looking for a nesting site, and had tried going through the sliding glass doors on the patio. Discouraged from doing that, it descended the wooden deck and settled in the garden for the night. He guided it back down to the huge, two acre sized freshwater pond in the backyard ( where it apparently came from ). He advised the owners to fix the flattened down fence with more stakes to keep it upright. You can see where the turtle had flattened it when it came ashore ( middle below ). This was in a millionaire section of Lawrence near Reynolds Channel just North of Long Beach. This just goes to show you that primitive creatures live next door to millionaire mansions! ABOVE: Harry’s Turtle Groupies LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 38 RETRO REPTILE AD REPTILE SUPPLY TOP half of 1980 Advertisement from Pet Age Magazine ( May 1980 ) LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 39 RETRO REPTILE AD REPTILE SUPPLY BOTTOM half of 1980 Advertisement from Pet Age Magazine ( May 1980 ) LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 40 German Caught Smuggling Geckos in Underpants A German visitor was caught trying to board a flight at Christchurch Airport on Sunday with 44 endangered geckos and skinks hidden in his underwear. Customs staff says it was the look on his face that gave him away as he tried to board the plane. Hans Kurt Kubus, a 58-year-old from Bad Munstereifel, Limbach, Germany, pleaded guilty in Christchurch District Court on Monday to five charges of trading in exploited species, and two of hunting absolutely protected wildlife. The court was told the geckos alone would have been worth $50,000 on the black-market in Europe. The value of the skinks is unknown. Department of Conservation prosecutor Mike Bodie says all New Zealand geckos are absolutely protected under the Trade in Endangered Species Act. He says Kubus is a German citizen who entered New Zealand at Christchurch Airport on November 15. On Sunday he checked his luggage in at the airport and got a boarding pass to leave New Zealand. But aviation security officers were alerted to Kubus' nervousness upon departure. "When searched by New Zealand Customs Service staff a small package was located concealed inside the defendant's underwear," says Bodie. "The package contained eight separate compartments, separating various gecko and skink species. The defendant had hand-sewn the eight compartments together to form a single compact concealed package. The defendant's luggage also contained a single gecko in a rolled up sock." A DOC herpetologist identified 24 geckos from five species, and 20 skinks of two species. All the animals had been taken from the wild, contrary to the Wildlife Act. It was also determined that 14 out of 15 adult female geckos and 12 out of 14 female skinks in the defendant's possession were pregnant. Each pregnant animal is likely to give birth to multiple live young in the coming weeks. When interviewed, the defendant admitted trading geckos and taking geckos and skinks from the wild without any permit or authority and was subsequently arrested. There is a black-market trade in geckos, particularly in Europe, Bodie says. The conservative "street" value of the geckos traded by the defendant is at least 1,000 euros per animal, or about $50,000 for 24 geckos. The value of the skinks is unknown because this is the first time trading in skinks has been identified. Judge Raoul Neave remanded Kubus on bail for sentencing on January 25 and asked for a presentence report. Kubus could face six months in prison and a fine over $100,000. Check out the video: http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/german-caught-smuggling-geckos-inunderpants-3238790/video?vid=3241694 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 41 Reprinted from TVNZ ( Television New Zealand Limited ) http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/german-caught-smuggling-geckos-in-underpants-3238790 December 08, 2009 Contributed by LIHS Member John Heiser 2 Foreigners Sent to NZ Prison for Hunting Lizards Swiss, Mexican sent to New Zealand prison for hunting, possessing protected lizards WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) -- Two men, from Switzerland and Mexico, were sentenced to prison in New Zealand on Monday for hunting and possessing protected native lizards in a case the judge said was akin to ivory smuggling. The men were sentenced to six months in jail, but District Court Judge Raoul Neave reduced their terms to 18 weeks because they pleaded guilty to charges under New Zealand's Wildlife Act. In his sentencing remarks, Neave said wildlife was endangered around the world and the men's actions were no different from the crimes of ivory hunters. Thomas Benjamin Price, 31, a stockbroker from Gallen, Switzerland, and Gustavo Eduardo Toledo-Albarran, 28, a chef from Carranza, Mexico, arrived in New Zealand in early February and traveled to Otago Peninsula on South Island. Toledo-Albarran spent five days searching for the lizards, the court heard. Price admitted possessing the lizards and Toledo-Albarran admitted illegally hunting them. They passed the reptiles to Manfred Walter Bachmann so he could smuggle them out of the country. Bachmann, an engineer from Uganda who is originally from Germany, was caught with 13 adult lizards and three young reptiles in the southern city of Christchurch on Feb. 16. He was sentenced to 15 weeks in prison and deportation on release. In a separate case, another German national, Hans Kurt Kubus, was caught at Christchurch International Airport late last year with 44 small lizards stuffed into his underwear as he tried to board a flight. Kubus was sentenced in January to 14 weeks behind bars and ordered to pay a 5,000 New Zealand dollar ( $3,540 ) fine. He will be deported to Germany at the end of his prison term. New Zealand officials have warned that black market demand is driving bids to smuggle wildlife like the small native lizards, which can fetch up to 2,800 euros ( $3,760 ) each. The country recently ordered a review of laws covering protected wildlife and is considering longer prison terms and higher fines. Reprinted from Yahoo.com http://finance.yahoo.com/news/2-foreigners-sent-to-NZapf-1667914524.html?x=0&.v=1 Posted: March 29, 2010 LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 42 One-Legged Snake A WOMAN has made history after discovering a ONE-LEGGED snake in her bedroom Terrified Duan Qiongxiu jumped out of her skin when she came across the mutant reptile. Scientists are now studying the slithering creature to see how it managed to grow a foot — complete with four clawed toes on its stomach. Duan, 66, of Suining, southwest China, said: "I woke up and heard a strange scratching sound. I turned on the light and saw this monster working its way along the wall using his claw." She was so scared she grabbed a shoe and beat the beast to death before preserving its body in a bottle of alcohol. The creature — which is 16 inches long and the thickness of a little finger — is now being studied at the Life Sciences Department at China's West Normal University in Nanchong. Snake expert Long Shuai said: "It is truly shocking but we won't know the cause until we've conducted an autopsy." LIHS Editor - ( UHMMM, you be the Judge on this one… Weigh in on this one. Is this real or fake? Let me know what you think.. And why??? – Rich ( [email protected] ) DONATIONS for the LIHS AUCTION WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED REMEMBER, “THEY” need not be REPTILE RELATED LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 43 Sprouts Make Turtles Flatulent Too A Norfolk aquarium has taken action to prevent flatulence from a Brussels sprout-eating turtle from triggering overflow alarms. The Great Yarmouth Sea Life Centre has lowered the water level in George the green turtle's tank, reports the Daily Telegraph. Staff at the centre give George a seasonal treat of Brussel sprouts at Christmas to provide a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals and fibre. But turtles, like humans, are prone to heavy bouts of flatulence after eating the vegetables. Last year, a turtle triggered overflow alarms in the middle of the night after the splashes from gassy bubbles hit overflow sensors. Now thousands of litres of water have been removed from the 12ft deep turtle tank to reduce the water level by six inches to keep it clear of the sensitive alarms. Displays supervisor Christine Pitcher said: "Last time an aquarist had to dash to the centre in the middle of the night, so we're not going to take any chances. "Sprouts are really healthy for green turtles. 'The high levels of calcium in them are great for their shells, the fibre is good for their digestion and they also contain lots of beneficial Vitamin C, sulphur and potassium." Senior marine biologist Darren Gook added: "We like to treat him to different foods and seeing as it's Christmas we thought brussel sprouts would be good. "I haven't noticed too many bubbles coming from George yet but hopefully now the water levels have been adjusted flatulence won't cause problems." Reprinted from Ananova http://www.ananova.com/News/story/sm_3602314.html December 17, 2009 Contributed by LIHS Member Debbie Hoppe LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 44 A Frog He Would A-Pooing Go Jill Rowbotham ALTHOUGH Chris Tracy and his team set out to monitor temperature changes in frogs, tracked via implanted radio transmitters, the phenomenon they stumbled on fascinated them even more: the amphibians were excreting the implants through their bladders. Tracy, a physiological ecologist at Charles Darwin University's school of environmental and life sciences, had surgically implanted the transmitters into the body cavities of scores of green tree frogs, Dahl's aquatic frogs and giant burrowing frogs, all of whom are close relatives. "We had a study on temperature in frogs," he says. "We tracked the transmitters, assuming they would be in the frogs, but in some cases they were outside the frogs; that was a bit confusing." This was the case in 75 per cent of the frogs. It is not unheard of for a transmitter to be found on its own, but usually it would be in the frog carcass or feces from a predator. Chris Tracy with one of the frogs that can excrete transmitters. Source: Supplied "But in this case the transmitter was just lying on the ground, with no sign of the frog or of a predator." It was only when Tracy and his team began retrieving transmitters from within other frogs in the study, finding they had somehow travelled to the bladders, that they began to work out what might have been happening. "We thought the reason we were seeing transmitters in bladders in the green tree frogs is they were too big to be excreted in some cases." Clearly, many other frogs were big enough to pass transmitters through the cloaca, the common opening shared by frog bladders and intestines. These observations triggered a new study in which they replicated the process by implanting beads in caged frogs. It took up to two weeks for the frogs to excrete the beads. Then they documented the process in cane toads implanted with beads. "Every couple of days we dissected one of the toads to see where the bead was relative to the bladder, so we could watch the whole process." Within two days the beads were coated with a thin film of tissue, then attached to the bladder. "In the next four weeks the bladder tissue continued to grow and fully envelop it and the bead ended up in the bladder." LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 45 Tracy has concluded it is probable all frogs and toads can do this. A subsequent survey of other research revealed fish can also excrete foreign bodies, including fishhooks, and so can some snakes. Reprinted from The Australian Copyright 2010 News Limited http://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/a-frog-he-would-a-pooing-go/story-e6frgcjx1225841552679?from=public_rss Published: March 17, 2010 RATTLESNAKES COURTIN’ The following photos appear to be rattlesnakes ( possibly Western Diamondbacks?? ) courting in the wild. Note: the photos may not be in correct order… Contributed by LIHS Member Ed Bennett LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 46 Long Island Herpetological Society, Inc. A NYS Registered Non-Profit Organization Profits benefit L.I.H.S. Supported Programs including Educational Programs & Environmental Causes st 21 Annual LIHS Equipment Captive Bred Reptiles only On Sale EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS Reptile & Amphibian Expo October 09th, 2010 ( Saturday ) Roosevelt Hall ~ Farmingdale State College Farmingdale, New York ( Located on ROUTE 110, Melville Road ENTRANCE ) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Live Reptiles, Equipment, Books, Caging on Sale LIHS Judged Reptile/Amphibian Show - Trophies, Ribbons For additional information regarding: VENDOR TABLES Entering the Reptile/Amphibian SHOW The LIHS TEL: ( 631 ) 884-5447 Web: www.LIHS.org Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] ADMISSION Adults................................. $6.00 Children & Seniors............. $4.00 LIHS Members................... $3.00 * Children under 5................. FREE FSC Students…………………. $3.00 * FSC Faculty…………………….. $3.00 * * Must be a “Current” LIHS Member * Must have “Current” Student I.D. * Must have “Current” Faculty I.D. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 47 Green Frog Climbs the Food Chain *** Clare Chapman I N a bizarre upset of the food chain a green frog devoured a brown tree snake for dinner on Sunday night. For North Mackay ( Australia ) resident Ian Hamilton, who is accustomed to seeing snakes swallow frogs, the sight of the predator being turned into prey near his home was almost unbelievable. “We have seen snakes eating frogs here but not the other way around,” Mr. Hamilton said. “We have actually saved frogs a couple of times because they make quite a noise when the snakes are getting them. A Mackay man was surprised to find this green frog devouring what appeared to be a brown tree snake in his backyard. ---- Ian Hamilton “But don’t ask me how on earth that frog swallowed that snake.” Mr. Hamilton said the hungry frog took at least 15 minutes to swallow the snake in its entirety. Meanwhile, other frogs sat watching their adventurous friend gobble up his scaly dinner. Rowan Pert, of Pert, Perry and Evans Veterinary Surgeons, said the snake appeared to be a brown tree snake, Boiga irregularis. “They are usually found in suburbia and are also known as night tigers,” Mr. Pert said. “That type of snake usually eats birds. “But in the food chain anything can happen as long as you are bigger than the bloke you are eating,” he said. “It is just a measure of what can happen out there in the wild.” LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 48 Northern Beaches veterinary surgeon David Lemmon said he had heard of frogs eating snakes before but it was a very unusual occurrence. “I have heard of this happening before but frogs are more insect eaters,” Mr. Lemmon said. He said brown tree snakes would generally attack rodents or birds but would normally steer clear of frogs. The rear-fanged snakes are relatively harmless. Daily Mercury http://www.dailymercury.com.au/story/2009/12/31/green-frog-climbs-up-the-food-chain-after-having-a/ December 31, 2009 *** LIHS Editor - Many of us know the Australian Green Tree Frog, ( Green Tree Frog in Australia ) as, White's Tree Frog, or the Dumpy Tree Frog ( Litoria caerulea ). Here ( LEFT ) is another photo I found of a “Green Tree Frog eating some pretty strange prey” – though, this one may have been “doctored” – you be the judge. Tortoise's Beauty Contributing to Its Downfall By Jennifer Viegas One of the world's most beautiful tortoises, Madagascar's radiated tortoise, is on the brink of extinction because illegal pet traders covet the eyecatching reptile, which is also hunted for its meat, according to a report today issued by the Turtle Survival Alliance and the Wildlife Conservation Society. Biologists who recently returned from field surveys in southern Madagascar's spiny forest, where the once-abundant tortoises live, predict that unless drastic conservation measures take place, the species will be Julie Larsen Maher / Wildlife Conservation Society LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 49 driven to extinction within the next 20 years. Entire regions were found to be devoid of the tortoises. Locals informed the scientists that armed bands of poachers had taken away truckloads of tortoises to supply open meat markets in towns such as Beloha and Tsihombe. Remains of the poached tortoises were also found at processing sites where authorities recently seized the meat. “Areas where scores of radiated tortoises could be seen just a few years ago have been poached clean,” said James Deutsch, director of the WCS's Africa Program. “Back then, one could hardly fathom that this beautiful tortoise could ever become endangered, but such is the world we live in, and things can – and do – change rapidly.” “The rate of hunting of radiated tortoises is similar to the hunting pressure on American bison during the early 19th century, where they were nearly hunted to extinction when they once numbered in the tens of millions,” said Brian D. Horne, turtle conservation coordinator for the WCS's Species Program. He and his colleagues noticed that poachers are moving ever closer to areas where the tortoises are protected, but locals are not well equipped to properly enforce the existing laws against hunting the species. “Radiated tortoises are truly under siege now as never before, and if we can’t draw a line in the sand around protected areas, then we will lose this species,” said Rick Hudson, president of the TSA. “I can’t think of a tortoise species that has undergone a more rapid rate of decline in modern times, or a more drastic contraction in range, than the radiated tortoise. This is a crisis situation of the highest magnitude.” The radiated tortoise's population used to number in the millions. Now, the IUCN Red List ranks this species as being Critically Endangered. According to the WCS, the situation is exacerbated by several factors: Years of extreme drought have led to diminished agricultural production and increased poverty, which leads people to tortoise hunting for survival. Enforcement action is often days away so that local officials do not have the capacity to stop poachers. Severe habitat degradation has made the spiny forest the most endangered forest type in Madagascar. After burning and clearing for agriculture, invasive plant species take over. Today, thick stands of opuntia ( prickly pear ) and sisal ( agave ) dominate the landscape. Current political instability has resulted in an increased open access to natural resources and illegal pet trade. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 50 Community mobilization linked to sustainable habitat protection is needed to save this unique critically endangered species, according to the researchers. While protecting the tortoises in the wild is at the forefront of conservation efforts, breeding programs are already underway here in the U.S., at places like the Bronx Zoo's Behler Chelonian Conservation Center. YouTube “Radiated Tortoise at the BRONX ZOO” link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpePZKXR3ag&feature=player_embedded Reprinted from Discovery News http://news.discovery.com/animals/tortoises-beauty-contributing-to-its-downfall.html Posted: April 5, 2010 Scientists Reveal Secret Disposal System of Frogs London: Scientists have discovered that frogs can absorb foreign objects from their body cavities into their bladders and excrete them through urination, thus revealing the secret disposal system of these amphibians. "It strikes me as being a pretty incredible mechanism for getting stuff out from the body cavity," lead researcher Christopher Tracy of Charles Darwin University in Darwin, Australia, told Nature News. In 2003, Tracy and his colleagues began a project to find out how frogs regulate their body temperature. They surgically implanted temperature-sensitive radio transmitters in the abdominal cavities of tree frogs of three species living around the city of Darwin. After several months, the authors set out to recapture their frogs to log the data and replace the transmitters' batteries. But out in the field, they found three of the transmitters lying on the ground. "In telemetry studies of small animals, it's not uncommon to find they've been eaten by something," Tracy said. "But there's usually some evidence that happened: scratches on the ground or a pile of predator feces," he added. In this case, the transmitters were pristine. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 51 The strangest discovery was that when the researchers opened up dozens of animals, in many cases, they pulled transmitters not from the body cavity, but from the urinary bladder. "That's when we started thinking about trying to pin down exactly what was going on," Tracy said. In 2008, Tracy and his colleagues decided to look into the phenomenon. They kept tree frogs and cane toads in the lab and surgically implanted beads in their body cavities. Within 2-3 weeks, the beads appeared on the floor of the frog cage. Only one cane toad out of five excreted a bead, but Tracy opened some other toads after the surgery and caught them in the act of enveloping the beads into their bladders. In just two days, the bead was surrounded by a transparent tissue devoid of blood vessels, which subsequently became vascularized and muscular. The finding will be of interest to field researchers, who often implant tiny radio transmitters into frogs to track them. It also helps to explain how these little creatures survive a life leaping around in thorny forests and consuming spiny insects whole. "It makes sense for an animal to get an object out of the body cavity," said Rick Shine, a herpetologist at the University of Sydney, Australia. "The remarkable thing is that they are able to do it," he added. Reprinted from Thaindian News http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/health/scientists-reveal-secret-disposal-system-offrogs_100299773.html January 6, 2010 Mother Goose and Grimm ~ Mike Peters LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 52 White Lizards Evolve in New Mexico Dunes By HENRY FOUNTAIN The White Sands of New Mexico are a good place to study evolution in progress. One reason is that the terrain, gypsum dunes white as a sheet of paper, is so different from the surrounding area. Another is that the dunes formed only about 6,000 years ago. “From an evolutionary perspective, that’s really the blink of an eye,” said Erica Bree Rosenblum, a professor at the University of Idaho who has been studying evolution at White Sands for much of the past decade. Her focus has been on three lizard species that elsewhere are dark skinned but in White Sands have each evolved a white-skinned variety that makes them hard to find. “It’s really obvious what’s happened,” Dr. Rosenblum said. “Everybody got white so that they could better escape from their predators.” It’s a great example of convergent evolution, of species independently acquiring the same traits. Several lizard species that are dark have developed white skin in the White Sands of New Mexico. Erica Bree Rosenblum/University of Idaho One question about convergent evolution is the mechanism by which it happens. Sure, these three lizards all developed white skin, but did they do it in the same way? Dr. Rosenblum and her colleagues have provided answers to this question in a paper in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. “At first blush it seems like the answer is yes,” she said. In at least two of the lizard species, the researchers found that mutations on the same gene, linked to the production of the skin pigment melanin, were responsible. The second part of the story is more interesting, Dr. Rosenblum said. In the two species, the mutations are different, and the molecular mechanism by which less melanin is produced is different, too. And, she said, the different mechanisms have had an effect on how the white-skinned trait has spread through the populations. In one, the mutation has made the white-skinned trait dominant; in the other, the mutation has made it recessive. So, according to basic Mendelian genetics, the trait spreads more quickly in the first lizard species than the second. Reprinted from the NY TIMES – Observatory Section http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/05/science/05oblizard.html?ref=science January 5, 2010 Submitted by LIHS Member Ed Bennett LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 53 Tarantula Shoots Sharp Hairs Into Owner’s Eye Doctors now advise wearing eye protection when handling pet spiders A creepy case of a man who got tarantula hairs stuck in his eye has doctors advising people to wear eye protection when handling the eight-legged pets. In February 2009, a 29-year-old man visited the St. James's University Hospital in Leeds, England, after enduring three weeks of a red, watery and light-sensitive eye. A dose of antibiotics for what was presumed to be conjunctivitis didn't clear the symptoms. Doctors at the hospital examined the eye under high-magnification lenses and spotted hair-like projections sticking into the cornea of the right eye. This pet tarantula, a Chilean Rose tarantula, releases urticating hairs from its abdomen to defend against potential predators ... or an unsuspecting owner. - The Lancet via LiveScience.com "When we looked at this guy's cornea, the clear window covering the eye, we saw these little whitish spots and a little black hairy-like thing at the center of each," St. James's Zia Carrim told LiveScience. There were about a dozen hairs protruding from the cornea, a couple of which had gone all the way through the eye's thin covering. The doctors let the patient know of the hairy findings. Ah-ha — the patient immediately recalled an incident right before he started having eye troubles in which he was cleaning the glass tank of his pet, a Chilean Rose tarantula ( Grammostola rosea ). While focused on cleaning a stubborn stain, he sensed movement in the terrarium and so turned his head. That's when the tarantula flicked a "mist of hairs" that hit him in the eyes and face. Perhaps his pet got scared. To ward off potential predators, this arachnid will rub its hind legs against the abdomen to dislodge hairs into the air. Called urticating hairs, the structures have multiple barbs that help them puncture through ocular and other tissues. Once in the patient's cornea, the hairs caused an inflammatory reaction called ophthalmia nodosa — a broad diagnosis covering the response of the eye to insect or vegetable material. The doctors said the hairs were too small to be removed even with tiny forceps. Instead, they treated the eye with topical steroids, which largely cleared up the symptoms. As of August, the patient reported mild discomfort and intermittent floaters, the researchers announced Dec. 31. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 54 The hairs are still stuck in his cornea, and the doctors aren't sure whether they'll ever go away. "This case highlights the importance of a collaborative approach between doctor and patient in providing good clinical care," Carrim and his colleagues wrote in this week's edition of the journal The Lancet. "The condition described is rare and the correct diagnosis was made only after we discussed the clinical findings with the patient." The take-home message for owners of pet tarantulas, which the researchers say are becoming increasingly popular: "Avoid handling the tarantulas at close range. If they do handle them at close range, they should wear some type of eye protection," Carrim said. And if a pet owner happens to get spider hairs in the eye, seek medical attention sooner rather than later, he added. MSNBC.com / LiveScience.com ( All rights reserved ). http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34647048/ns/health-more_health_news/ Jan. 1, 2010 Submitted by LIHS member Deb Hoppe Rare Crocs Found Hiding in Plain Sight in Cambodia Michael Casey, AP Environmental Writer BANGKOK — Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodile species say they have found dozens of the reptiles lounging in plain sight — at a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. DNA taken from 69 crocodiles housed in the moats of the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center showed nearly 50 percent were Siamese crocodiles, which until recently were believed to have become extinct in the wild, researchers said Wednesday. "For the first time in Cambodia, we have a captive population of animals that we know 100 percent are purebred Siamese crocodiles," said Adam Starr, who manages the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Program, a joint effort between the government and Fauna & Flora International. The Washington, D.C.-based conservation group Wildlife Alliance also took part. Once common throughout Southeast Asia, the Siamese crocodile or Crocodylus siamensis is locally extinct in 99 percent of the areas it once roamed and is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Much of the wild population was wiped out by habitat loss and poaching. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 55 Those left in the wild — thought to be less than 250, with nearly all in Cambodia and the rest in Indonesia and Vietnam — face the new threat of hydropower dams being built in two of their three known habitats in the country. Starr said the discovery of the captive population would give conservationists new options for breeding and reintroducing the crocodiles into the wild, most likely in places not affected by the dams. He said up to 60 crocodiles a year could be released into areas where they once thrived. DNA analysis, which was done at Thailand's Kasetsart University, is necessary because it is virtually impossible to tell the difference between Siamese crocodiles and the hybrid crocodile species that are also housed at the center. Nhek Ratanapech, Director of the wildlife center, said he was surprised to learn that so many of the crocodiles turned out to be pure Siamese. ABOVE: In this photo taken Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, a Siamese crocodile is seen at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center in Phnom Tamao village, Takoe province, about 45 kilometers ( 28 miles ) south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodiles have found dozens in an unlikely place, a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. Retrieving DNA from 69 crocodiles housed at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, researchers said Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009, that they found nearly 50 percent were Siamese crocodiles which until recently were believed to have gone extinct in the wild. ( AP Photo/Heng Sinith ) RIGHT: In this photo taken Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, Siamese crocodiles are seen at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center in Phnom Tamao village, Takoe province, about 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodiles have found dozens in an unlikely place, a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) "Before we conducted the DNA testing, we thought perhaps only three or four of them in the zoo were Siamese crocodiles," he said. LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 56 Siamese crocs are said to be a bit smaller at just under 10 feet ( 3.5 meters ) than hybrids, and their snouts are shorter and wider. LEFT: In this photo taken Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, a Siamese crocodile peers out from the water at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center in Phnom Tamao village, Takoe province, about 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodiles have found dozens in an unlikely place, a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) RIGHT: In this photo taken Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, a Siamese crocodile is seen at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center in Phnom Tamao village, Takoe province, about 45 kilometers ( 28 miles ) south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodiles have found dozens in an unlikely place, a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) RIGHT: In this photo taken Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, a mixed breed of a Siamese and salt water crocodile is seen at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center in Phnom Tamao village, Takoe province, about 45 kilometers ( 28 miles ) south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Conservationists searching for one of the world's most endangered crocodiles have found dozens in an unlikely place, a wildlife rescue center in Cambodia. ( AP Photo/Heng Sinith ) Reprinted from Newsvine.com http://www.newsvine.com/_news/2009/11/18/3514529-rare-crocs-found-hiding-in-plain-sight-in-cambodia Nov 18, 2009 The Associated Press LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 57 Snapping Turtle Grabs Boy's Face WARREN, OH A 16-year-old city boy found out they are called snapping turtles for a reason. The boy was observing a snapping turtle in the Mahoning River near Norwood Avenue Northwest around 8:30 a.m. Saturday when he got his face too close, and the turtle bit him on the face and wouldn’t let go, said Warren police Sgt. Dick McAllise. The boy carried the 20-pound turtle from the river bank to Tod Avenue Northwest, where a man driving by in a car noticed the boy and called 911. At Forum Health Trumbull Memorial Hospital, doctors gave the turtle a shot of medication to force it to release its grip on the boy’s face, McAllise said, adding that he believes stitches were needed to close the wound on the boy’s face. ( LIHS Editor: Okay, you can’t make this stuff up. I loved the comments that followed… See below ) Comments: 1. Rubbing alcohol poured down the snappers throat would have made it release its grip . I think that the snapper liked the boy and would have made a great pet. Yep, it was attached to him! :) 2. Someone should tell him now not to put his tongue on a metal pole in the winter. And where are the pics?!?!? 3. Yes pictures please. This turtle understands natural selection. 4. Was the snapping turtle alright? I hope the turtle wasn't infected with the stupidity virus or something similar. 5. The 16 year old CHILD should just be released back into his wildlife habitat after he is RFID chipped so he AND his stupidity may be tracked and studied. 6. What a dummy. This person can legally drive and will be able to vote in two years. Scary. The Vindicator ( Youngstown, Ohio ) http://www.vindy.com/news/2010/may/02/snapping-turtle-grabs-boys-face/ Published: May 2, 2010 Submitted by LIHS Member Debbie Hoppe LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 58 Herp Web Sites / Videos to Check Out Check this Out 18 Snakes in 8 Eggs! You Tube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1STOyZNNtPo&feature=player_embedded Submitted by LIHS Member Mike Russo Giant Salamanders Helped to Spawn December 31, 2009—A new program in Japan is helping giant salamanders get past dams built to control flooding so the rare amphibians can lay their eggs upstream. National Geographic Society: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/091231-salamander-videowcvin.html Video by Public Television's Wild Chronicles, from National Geographic Mission Programs December 31, 2009 Mike Russo on Reptile Radio - Gray Banded King Snakes Thanks to Mike Russo who gave a shout out for the LIHS when he was a guest on Reptile Radio and was talking about Gray Banded King snakes. To hear Mike, go to the following link: Gray Banded Kingsnake husbandry and localities with Mike Russo 11/8/2009 - Larry & BT on Blog Talk Radio Mother of All Turtles Video You Tube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0p8oMS3IODQ River Monsters: Mother of all Turtles LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 59 The Herp Marketplace Reptology Habitat Enclosures for Reptiles and Amphibians. Penn-Plax Inc., announces three new lines of Reptology Habitat Enclosures for Reptiles and Amphibians. Classic Glass Habitats are the company’s traditional terrarium line; Natural Wood Habitats are similar in design but with beautiful wood frames; and Decorator Habitats are designed to look like pieces of furniture, according to the manufacturer. The company adds that the habitats are made with quality materials and designed with numerous features that encourage healthy and natural living environments. www.pennplax.com ReptiSun Terrarium Hood . Zoo Med Laboratories presents the ReptiSun Terrarium Hood. The product includes a low profile hood that holds a NatureSun or T8 ReptiSun linear fluorescent lamp, and the hood has an electronic ballast for maximum light output and increased energy efficiency, the company reports. The ReptiSun Terrarium Hoods are low profile hoods designed to hold one T8 size linear fluorescent lamp. The ReptiSun Terrarium Hoods feature a built-in reflector which allows for deeper penetration of visible light and UVB .Convenient on/off switch. The LF-62 fits terrariums that are 30 in. wide and up ( 20 gallons long or larger ) and fits a 24in. T8 lamp, while the LF-60 fits terrariums that are 20 in. wide and up ( 10 gallons or larger ) and holds an 18-in. T8. www.zoomed.com The Exo Terra Mayan Rainforest Habitat Kit, is an all-in-one reptile terrarium package with a background design inspired by art found in Mayan temples. Measuring 18x18x24 in. and made of black polystyrene, each kit includes an Exo Terra Glass Terrarium and Compact Top, along with a hygrometer, thermometer and water dish. Among the Central-America-simulating items in the kit are Plantation Soil made of compressed coconut husk fiber, as well as plant accessories, such as the Large Jungle Fern and Jungle Vines, according to the manufacturer. Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp www.exo-terra.com LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 60 The Herp Marketplace Diamondback Trading Cards - Diamondback Trading Cards manufactures unique trading cards for the natural history enthusiast of all ages. Watch their video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8wVCrNsnoI More information, click around to browse current stock and upcoming releases. 'Reptiles Series 1', ‘SS – Alterna’, 'Frogs and Toads' 'Reptiles Series 2' 'Arthropods' http://www.diamondbacktradingcards.com/Home Reptology Large Turtle Pier. Penn-Plax is proud to introduce the Reptology Large Turtle Pier. This turtle basking platform automatically adjusts to your water level and is designed for medium-large aquatic turtles as well as frogs, newts and salamanders. The platform is 16” x 11” and with the eight extension pylons included, you can adjust the height up to 16” tall! Designed to look like an “authentic pier”, The Reptology Large Turtle Pier will provide an ideal platform for your turtles to bask. For more information and product videos, please visit www.pennplax.com. www.pennplax.com LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 61 The Herp Marketplace Natural Cricket Care with added vitamins and minerals is formulated to provide a nutrient-filled gut-load for the optimum health of crickets and the herps that eat them. The product comes in 1 3/4 - and 10-oz. sizes, and its particles come finely ground for all sizes of crickets, according to the company. www.zoomed.com The NATURE ZONE Humidi-Mat helps raise the humidity level in your enclosure by controlled evaporation of water. They are made from a tough simulated leather fabric combined with a special osmotic fabric which allows the release of fine water vapor. Soak in water 12-24 hours to activate, then place in terrarium. The nontoxic gel inside pouch slowly releases water vapor without saturating the terrarium ( or drowning insects ). Remove and reactivate when dry. An easy and hassle-free way to create a humid microclimate for your reptile. Convenient mat provides essential moisture to your reptile's terrarium. A great way to offer moisture to insects without drowning them. The mats have heat fused seams making them extremely durable and allow them to be used over and over again. Easily activated by simply soaking in water. ideal for tropical animals such as Rainbow Boas, Ball Pythons, Dart Frogs, Chameleons, Skinks, Salamanders or any other humidity loving reptile or animal. Two sizes: Small: 7.25" x 3" and Medium: 12” x 3.5” www.NatureZonePet.com REPTOLOGY Shale Step Ledge & Cave Hide-Out – Small; REP 181, and Medium; REP 182 Penn Plax Pet Products LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 62 The Herp Marketplace Exo Terra Turtle Heater maintains an ideal water temperature ( 78°F ) for aquatic turtles and most other aquatic reptiles and amphibians. The high-impact plastic casing and the stainless steel power cord protector keeps aquatic reptiles and amphibians safe. Included is a mounting bracket with two oversized suction cups for easy mounting in any aquatic habitat setup. Can heat up to 30 gallons. Preset submersible heater Rugged construction for safety Two sizes: 25W ( PT3700 ) and 50W ( PT3702 ) www.exo-terra.com FLUKERS Cricket Quencher ( no calcium ) or FLUKERS Cricket Quencher Calcium: Provides crickets and other feeder insects with a safe, clean water source - as well as offering a good source of calcium for "gut-loading" insects prior to feeding them to your reptile. 16 ounces. FLUKERS Orange Cubes: Formulated to be easily digested by all feeder insects. Use of orange cube will drastically reduce the number of drowned, dehydrated and nutrient deficient crickets. Made from nutritious items such as kelp, spirulina, and brewer's yeast. Also packed with Vitamins E, B-12, A, D3, and calcium carbonate. 6 ounces and 12 ounces FLUKERS High Calcium Cricket Diet: Designed for "gut-loading" crickets to increase their vitamin/mineral content prior to offering them as prey, Fluker's Cricket Feed allows insect-eating pets to benefit from the nutritional value of the insect itself, and from the insect's nutrient-rich gut contents as well. 13 ounces. www.flukerfarms.com/ REPTOLOGY Terrarium Hide-Outs - Fossil Cave™ Hide-A-Way Home - For Small Animals & Reptiles; REP 180 Penn Plax Pet Products LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 63 The Herp Marketplace San Francisco Bay Brands “Healthy Herp” INSTANT MEALS. From the company that for years has brought aquarist live brine shrimp and numerous frozen foods comes the “Herp Healthy” line of FREEZE-DRIED Instant Meals. Healthy Herp™ INSTANT MEALS are All Natural, contains no preservatives and are healthy and nutritious. The meals have been formulated and specifically mixed for Herbivorous, Omnivorous, or Carnivorous reptiles. The formula mix when rehydrated returns to its natural state making it irresistible to reptiles. Natural colors Natural aroma Pre cut ( where applicable ) A healthy meal No preservatives No refrigeration Feeding Instructions: Remove lid ( for bulk fill cup with food ), fill cup halfway with warm water, and wait 5-8 minutes. Drain excess water and place in Stepping Stone Feeding Dish™ or dump into food dish. Remove any uneaten food after 24 hours and discard. This product has been lightly dusted with calcium, because different reptiles have different needs, please be familiar with your animal’s requirements and supplement accordingly. This product can be used as a daily diet, in addition to the daily diet or as a treat. Available in several varieties, and sizes (SM Cup; LG Cup; Bulk Jar; LG Bulk Jar ). OPTIONAL Stepping Stone Feeding Dish available ( SM and LG size available ). Additional information at http://www.sfbb.com/pdf-intro/hh_intro.pdf or http://www.sfbb.com/whatsnew.asp Veggie Mix Instant Meal Fruit Mix Instant Meal Meat Mix Instant Meal Box Turtle Food Instant Meal Tortoise Food Instant Meal Dragon Food Instant Meal Adult Optional Stepping Stone Feeding Dish LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 64 The Herp Marketplace San Francisco Bay Brands “Healthy Herp” Frozen Rodents. Four sizes available; Pinky ( 3 ), Fuzzy ( 3 ), Hopper ( 2 ), Adult (2 ) and ( 50 ) packs. Healthy Herp Frozen Rodents are safe and easy to feed. Each fuzzy is individually wrapped to lock in freshness. They are accepted by snakes, turtles, tortoises, lizards and frogs. Just thaw and feed. http://www.sfbb.com/whatsnew.asp# San Francisco Bay Brand, “Healthy Herp” FROZEN Natural Formulated Reptile Diets. Healthy Herp™ Formulas are formulated with whole fresh ingredients, which provide an excellent mix of animal and plant proteins ( where applicable ), vitamins and calcium. • • • • • Natural ingredients Frozen fresh Scent and color attracts reptiles A healthy meal No mess easy pop out cubes Simply thaw and feed. Available in Aquatic Turtle Diet Adult Formula; Aquatic Turtle Diet Juvenile Formula; Carnivore Carnage™; Dragon Delight™, Adult Formula; Dragon Delight™, Juvenile Formula; Fantastic Fruit™; Garden Gumbo™; and Tortoise T’weeds™. Additional information is available at http://www.sfbb.com/frozen.asp# www.sfbb.com/home.asp LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 65 MEETING DATES & INFORMATION LIHS Meeting / Exhibition Dates Speaker / Topic May 16, 2010 Corn Snakes the Best Pet Snake EVER – Rich Hume June 13, 2010 2nd Annual LIHS Auction June 19th, 2010 October 9th, 2010 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Herp Day LIHS Annual Reptile & Amphibian Show/Expo ALL Meetings ( unless otherwise noted ): Are OPEN and FREE to the PUBLIC ( UNLESS NOTED )… Bring your friends and family. Will start at 1:00 PM. They may end earlier than the 4:00 end time, so please be on time. Will be held at the Farmingdale State College Conference Center on the SUNY Farmingdale College Campus. DIRECTIONS to SUNY Farmingdale: http://www.lihs.org/files/meetingplace.htm SUNY Farmingdale College Campus Map: http://www.lihs.org/files/FSUNY_MAP.jpg Speakers will be updated as they are scheduled. You will receive meeting updates via email, the Herpetofauna Journal, REMINDER POSTCARDS, or for the most Current Information, please check the LIHS Website: www.LIHS.org LIHS Herpetofauna Journal ~ January/April 2010 Volume 20, Issue 1-4 ~ www.LIHS.org Page 66
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