NEWSLETTER OF THE

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

JANUARY 1994 VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455~O 104

Do you ever have a question about one of your herps and wonder who might be able to provide an answer? Most people who keep pets of any kind have been is this situation at one time or another. A group of MHS members has volunteered to provide assistance. Listed below are the people and their specialties. Please be reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.

Large pythons and constrictors Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268 Vence Jimerson 869-8547

Lizards Nancy Haig 789-4637 Bill Moss 488- 1383 Drew Newman (Iguana) 774-6008

Terrestrial turtles and tortoises John Moriarty 647-1334 Ann Porwoll 489-7853

Other Snakes John Meltzer John Levell Connie Delles

Amphibians John Meltzer Greg Kvanbek Drew Newman

Aquatic Turtles Michele Stillinger Dennis Daly

263-7880 374-5422 374-5422

263-7880 533-7723 774-6008

377-8637 331-8606

The purpose of the Minnesota Hepetological Society is: to further the education of the membership and the general public in care and captive propagation of retiles and amphibians; to educate the membership and the general public in the ecological role of reptiles and amphibians; and to promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

MRS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY RECORDING SECRETARY TREASURER NEWSLETTER EDITOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE MEMBER-AT-LARGE IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Glen Jacobsen John Levell Connie Delles Dan Berquist Marilyn Brooks Michele Stillinger Jeff LeClere Bill Moss Hans Paulson Sara Richard John Meltzer

SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

(612) 757-8268 (612) 374-5422 (612) 374-5422 (612) 487-3258 (612) 431-2146 (612) 377-8637 (612) 467-3715 (612) 488-1383 (715) 425-7959 (612) 623-7620 (612) 263-7880

~--------------------------.------------------------.------

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM

LOCAL

OUT OF STATE

(612) 347-3141

(612) 221·2113

(800) 222-1222

Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. The contents of this newsletter may be reproduced for inclusion in the newsletters of other herpetological societies provided that the material is reproduced without change and proper credits are given to the MHS Newsletter, citing, volume, number, and date.

MInnesOTa HeRpeTologIcal SOCIeTY TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

Upcoming Meeting Highlights by John P. Levell 2 MHS Business 4 MHS Speaker Review by Michele Stillinger 8 HFYI 10 Snakes of Minnesota by Jeff LeClere 11 HERP FACTS MHS Care Sheet Article of Interest Neonate Page by Carlos & Sam Classified Ads

From the Editor:

I hope Everyone had a fantastic Hol i day season! I'd 1 i ke to take this space to express a special ~ongratulations to member and Secretary, Dan Bergquist, on his successful ope rat ion. In December, Dan had open heart surgery and we were all very worried, but Dan is doing just great now! At January's general meeting the members contributed $50 to help Dan out with his expenses. Thank you all for your generosity! In place of the January board meeting, Dan's friends held a special spaghetti pizza party in his honor to collect more money and show him our support. Dan was well enough to attend and looked great. I've temporarily taken over Dan's speaker review till he feels better and Donna Calander took care of his board meeting duties in January. Thanks Donna! We all wish Dan the best and look forward to seeing him at the White Snake Sale! - Michele

Next Newsletter Deadline:

MHS NEWSLETfER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I

14 16 18 20 21

Reminders:

February's general meeting will be the annual White Snake Sale. There will be no scheduled speaker but we will have a video to watch while member's bills are tallied. There will be no critter of the month at this meeting.

In March, MHS will hold our elections for board members. If you or someone would like to run, see the MHS Business section for details. We would like to see a big turnout for these elections this year, on the ballot and at the meeting. There still will be a scheduled speaker that month.

Send all inquiries, ~ds, and articles directly to the editor at:

MHS Editor 234 West George

St. Paul, MN 55107

February 1st, 1994

PAGEl

February Program: MHS Annual White Snake Sale Where: 335, Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus When: 7:00 pm sharp! Friday, February 4th, 1994

As has become tradition, the Minnesota Herpetological Society's february meeting will consist of our annual fund raising event, the White Snake Sale. For those MRS members unfamiliar with the White Snake Sale, the following description may hopefully give an idea of what it is. The sale is a silent auction featuring numerous donated items (new and used) of usually herp-oriented merchandise. The auction itself consists of several "rounds" in which various items are placed on tables along with a card on which interested MRS members write down their bids. Naturally, the highest bid wins and all purchased merchandise is paid for and collected at the end of the meeting. Items from some past White Snake Sales have included; aquariums, cages, heaters, books, notecards, artwork, t-shirts, caps, jewelry, and even our "infamous" plastic plants and turtle bowls. One time there was even a painted jawbone of an ass, or was it a cow's ja~ .

Whatever kind of jawbone it was, it was on the table and someone actually bought it along with the turtle bowls, plastic plants, and other assorted trinkets. All of which goes to show just how great MRS members are at supporting a worthy cause, namely our club. The White Snake Sale is a major source of income for our society and the funds raised by the auction support MRS activities throughout the year.

This year's sale promises to be better than ever, as in addition to the above mentioned items, several companies have kindly donated merchandise for the auction. These companies include Mardell Laboratories Inc., Reptile and Amphibian Magazine, Zoo Med Laboratories Inc., Reptile News Press, the Snake Connection, and Rep-Cal Research Labs. There is also a surprise video scheduled for the meeting's end guaranteed (we hope) to keep you glued to your seats while our billing process is completed. So come on down, have some fun, and support your society by spending lots of money. See you there. JPL

UPCOMING MEETINGS

March: Delvin Jones/North American Desert Reptiles

April: 7

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 2

MAJOR ST. PAUL CAMPUS ACCESS ROUTES

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MHS NEWSLETIER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1

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PAGE 3

MHS Bus;ness

January General Meeting

Special thanks to January Speaker Don Middaugh for donating his speaker fee back to the society!

Raffle Donors Kari n Rea Virginia Shaw Larson Hans Pau 1 son

Critter of the Month John Levell - Rubber boa

Raffle Winners Virginia Shaw Larson Bi 11 Moss Laura Eliason Bruce Haig Mark Schmidtke

George Richard Zachary Jodi Aherns Hans Paulson

*Bring a proper display case, clear all potentially dangerous animals with the Vice President first! Keep animals inside their bags or cages in the meeting room at all times before and after critter of the month!*

Board Meeting

January's board meeting was held after the Friday night general Meeting at the Ground Round because of the Saturday night party for Secretary Dan Bergquist. (see page one from the editor)

Meeting was called to order at 9:50 pm. We had some problems with the Borlaug Hall building personnel about the Audio Visual Room keys and the general meeting was delayed as a result. We will be contacting university officials about solving the problem, but be forewarned. we may have to switch buildings in the future. Green Hall is a likely possibility. It is located just across the parking lot and to the north of Borlaug.

The board member changes and elections procedures were discussed. The problem of how to change ballots and voting to allow for a 5th member at large were discussed. Motion was passed to allow the president to appoint a 5th member at large in the event the past president position is not filled. Unfortunately, the issue was not resolved with enough notification before the March elections (60 days) to be on the March ballots.

Please see the following page for more info and for info on the constitutional change for the term of office for the treasurer. If you are interested in running for a board position. please contact any board member!

All board members need to be at the February meeting as early as possible to set up for the White Snake Sale!

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 4

At the March 1994 general meeting, MHS will be holding the board member elections. Many of the positions will need to be filled. It's a great way to get more involved in you society, be instrumental in decision making, and get to know members better. When I first joined the board, I knew only one person in the society. I've met a great many people and made some new friends in the last two years on the board and it has been a rewarding experience.

Each position has different duties that are vital to the society. See the following descriptions (incomplete) below and let a board member know if you are interested or would like to nominate someone else. If you would like a complete description of board member responsibilities contact this years election committee chairs Fred and Liz Bosman (476-0306) after February 5th.

There are also a number of non board related committees you can join: Newsletter Folding, Hands-On, Adoption, etc. These three in particular desperately need new committee chairs and members for 1994.

OFFICE POSITIONS

President: Chair ~eetings, appoint chairpersons, schedule meeting room, act as the public spokesman, concentrate on long range planning, etc.

Vice President: Take over president's duties in his absence, coordinate speakers for monthly meetings, introduce speakers, critter of the month and any other presentations.

Treasurer: Maintain bookkeeping, checking account, balance statements, collect fines, raffle money, merchandise sales from volunteer members at meeting.

Secretary: Records minutes of board meetings, general meetings, compiling speaker review for newsletter, send out necessary correspondence when required.

Newsletter Editor: Edit and assemble newsletter.

Member at Large: Help make decisions at monthly board meetings, assisting with sales, raffle, refreshments, and other aspects of monthly general meeting as required, volunteer for special projects and committees as they arise.

MHS NEWSLETIER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGES

Proposed Change to the Constitution

Where: Room 335, Borlaug Hall, U of M st. Paul Campus When: 7:00 pm, Fri day, March 4 th, 1994 Who: All active members of MHS in attendance

March is our election month. It is the time to vote for candidates to the various Board positions for the next year. Also this same month there will be a resolution presented on the ballot for a change to the MHS Constitution. This was briefly mentioned in the November newsletter in the Board meeting minutes section. It is the position of the Board that this change should be considered as a means to help prevent problems that may arise in future years; therefore the board is placing the final decision on the membership.

The resolution is to make the position of Treasurer one with an unlimited term. Currently the position has a two year limit. The only other position to currently have this status is that of Newsletter Editor.

Current Constitution: Section 4.02 Term of Office. The Officers and Members-at­Large elected at the Annual Meeting of MHS as hereafter provided, shall serve for a period of one (1) year. Officers may serve only two (2) terms consecutively. Newsletter Editor will have no limit to term length.

Proposed Change as it will appear on ballot: Amended Section 4.02 Term of Office. The Officers and Members-at-Large elected at the Annual Meeting of MHS as hereafter provided, shall serve for a period of one (1) year. Officers may serve only two (2) terms consecutively. Newsletter Editor and Treasurer will have no limit to term length. (Amended 3/8/94)

This change will be permanent and is worthy of consideration by the members of the Society. This resolution will be on the ballot separately. To vote on the resolution and on the Board positions. you must be in attendance at the general meeting in Borlaug Hall .

The November Newsletter stated that you would be voting on the proposed change of making the Immediate Past President a one year term. Issues were not fully resolved with the Board in time to meet the deadline of notification to the general membership. This is required in order for it to be voted on. Therefore it will not be on the ballot at the March meeting.

Lastly, copies of the current Constitution can be picked up from the Membership Se.cretary or Treasurer at the next two meetings. If you have any questions, please call a member of the Board for further information.

MKB

MHS NEWSLETfER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I PAGE 6

Public Education Summary - 1993

1993 was a very good year for MHS public education events. We were at seventeen events (counting the seven weekends at the Renaissance Festival as one event), had 55 people donate 936 hours of their time and generated $1722.00 in gross revenue to MHS.

More importantly, we exposed many thousands of people to the positive aspects of reptiles and amphibians. Most of these were people who had previously had a negative opinion about these critters. With very few exceptions, we changed that opinion.

On behalf of MHS and myself I want to extend my gratitude to the following people for their efforts. These people have truly done a service for future of herpetology in Minnesota. They stand for what MHS is all about.

Bill Moss - Public Education Chairperson

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Jeff Ackerman Jody Aherns Gloria Anton Gary Ash Dan Bergquist Randy Blasus Fred Bosman Liz Bosman Lindsay Brice Marilyn Brooks Dave Burton Donna Calander Cheryl Cords Scott Cords Brandon Delles Bruce Delles Chase Delles Diane Erickson Tim Goebel Norm Good Bruce Haig Nancy Haig Nancy Hakomaki Cindy Hardy Dean Haugen Cindy Hoeye Candi Hoeye Ken Hoeye

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I

Gidget Houle Lisa Hoy Glen Jacobsen Theresa Kollander Lucas Kroise Greg Kvanbek Virginia Larson Jeff LeClere Conni e Levell John Levell Ted Miessner Bill Moss Dave Munson Matt Nei 1 Drew Newman Jason Nordby Dallas Ost Rob Ost Lynn Paiter Steven Porter Siri Rea George Richard Sandy Smith Michele Stillinger Doris Wahl Marla Wilber

PAGE?

January Speaker: Don Middaugh of Reptile Gardens

WELCOME TO CENOZOIC PARK

The sign, remarkably resembling the Jurassic Park sign, invites you into the world of Don Middaugh's reptiles. A world located in the scenic beauty of South Dakota's Rapid City. No, I'm not being sarcastic, it's true. Don showed us slides. Being a Minnesotan all my life, I've never been to South Dakota, bizarre as that may seem. After this presentation, I've decided to definitely go this summer.

Don took us on a spectacular slide show of his little herp paradise in the lush rolling hills of Western South Dakota. Okay, I'll stop the dramatic colorful writing and tell you some of the facts he shared with us.

Don became curator of the Reptile Gardens in 1987. The first building was built in 1937 and since than Reptile Gardens has evolved into a huge, lush, world renowned reptile collection. The exterior includes almost as many different species as the inside (plants that is). They have a huge collection of orchids and other flower gardens to sooth the reptile squeamish members of the family (are there really people like that?).

Inside the many buildings, is a huge collection consisting of the following:

38 types of amphibians 95 types of turtles 182 crocodilians 159 types of lizards 477 types of snakes (142 of those are elapids)

for a grand total of 951 different kinds of reptiles and amphibians! WOW! Some of the more interesting animals include a 165 pound alligator snapper, a 22 foot reticulated python, galapagos tortoises, all the different species of mambas (Dons' favorites), Grand Caymen Island iguanas, king cobras, spitting cobras, forest cobras, Indian cobras, (yes, he likes those too), and some Cuban crocodiles.

Now the Cuban crocs have a story all their own. They are one of the rarest crocodilian species in the world. There are only 700 known in the world. They also are the most alert, and potentially dangerous. They are incredible jumpers. Don has had to install wire screens to the tops of their pens to keep them from attacking people as they walk by. They can jump several feet and continually bash apart the tops of their cages! I'll just zip by those babies!

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I PAGE 8

Some other facts that Don shared with us include his recommendations for a good herp to keep, the leaf-tailed gecko. These geckos have flat leaf shaped tails that will curl up if dehydrated so he recommends daily misting.

Many of you who were at the meeting may have noticed that Don has A LOT of venomous animals. Luckily no one has ever been seriously injured. As an example of the price of the antivenin for a poisonous snake bite,the serum for a Taipan costs $1,300 a vial! Yet another reason not to get bit!

Don's presentation was very enjoyable to all who attended. The slides were excellent and he was a very informed, entertaining speaker. I personally look forward to visiting Reptile Gardens and experiencing his huge collection close up.

We're Qo;n' to the MHS Wh; te Sna.ke Sa.l e

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 9

HFVI Herpetological (topics) For Your Information

Calender of events

EVENT TYPE FEBRUARY 1994 MARCH 1994

Hands-On -Sun. 2/13 Bell Museum, -Sun. 3/6 Bell Museum, 12:00 to 3:30 12:00 to 3:30 -Fri. 2/18 Cub Scout Banquet, 7:00 pm

Conferences

Seminars

Other Events

Other Events for 1994

17TH ANNUAL ALL FLORIDA HERPETOLOGY CONFERENCE - SATURDAY, APRIL 9,1994

The All Florida Herpelology Conference is cosponsored by the Florida Museum of Natural History and the Gainesville Herpetological Society. The conference will be held on the campus of the University of Florida at Reitz Union Auditorium. We prefer you preregister using the fonn below, at lower cost to you, but late registrations will be accepted the day of the conference starting at 8 am. The program starts at 9 am., and the barbeque will end around 10 p.m.

SPEAKERS WILL BE: Josepb Bagnara. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arizona. Tucson; A1 and c,indy BaJdogo, Fontanelle. Iowa; Barry Cook,. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission.

Lake City, Florida; nale De Nardo. Department of Integrative Biology, University of California at Berkeley; Robert Ehrig, Big Pine Key, Florida; Kevin Griffin, Florida FannBureau, Gainesville, Florida; Steven Hammack. Reptile Department, Ft Worth Zoological Gardens, Texas, Curt Harbsmeler, Central Florida Herpetological Society, Winter

Haven; David Hardy, Tucson, Arizo~ Julian Lee, Department of Biology, University of Miami; Perran Ron, Florida Museum ofNatw'al History, and AI Zulich, Baltimore, Maryland.

EVENTS INCLUDE: Eight, forty minute talks, a workshop and panel discussion on collection security techniques; a parasite detection workshop presented by Richard Funk. DVM, Brandon, Florida; a general

diagnostics workshop presented by Mark Wilson" DVM. Belleview, Flori~ a workshop for young herpetologists presented by CharleJ Vogel and An..ne Thomu; many exhibitors ofherpeoological books, art,je\\'elry. and

equipment; and an evening barbeque and auction at the Florida Museum ofNanual History.

DIRECTIONS: From the Intersection of State Road 26 (University Avenue) and U.S. 44J (S.W. 13th. Street), drive south on U.S. 441 until you reach Museum Road (S.W. 8th. Avenue). Tum v.'eSt (right) on to campus and proceed less than one·halfmile, until you reach Reitz Union. Watch for A.F.RC. signs.

PREREGISTRATION FOru.I.PLEASEMAIL EARLY Preregistration Costs: Conference (No Barbeque) SI2.00: Conference and Barbeque 519.00

Late Registration Costs (After April 3): Conference (No Barbeque) 515.00, Conference and Barbeque $22.00 Pernons Under 16 Years of Age (Flat Rate, Anytime): $7.00

N~(S~'======~~~~==~~;;~~~==========:;~;;~:===~ ADDRESS: STATE: ZIP: DAY PHONE AREACODE:~ __ _ WORKSHOP FOR YOUNG HERPETOLOGIST'S: CHILD'S NA.v.E: AGE: __ _ Workshop for Young Herpetologist participants are encouraged to bring their pet herptiles to discuss proper care and maintenance. Children Wlder 8 must be accompaned by an adult. Late registration is between 8 and 9 a.m., and the workshop \viII start at 1 p.m. at the musewn.

Enclosed is my check for $ for person (s), Made Payable To The Gainesville Herpetological Society and Mailed To: David Autb, Division of Herpetology, Florida Museum of Natural

Hislory, Unh'enity of Florida, Gainesville. Florida 32611. For More Information About The Conference, Call David Aulh at (904) ~392~17:H.

MHS NEWSLETIER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 10

Snakes of M;nnesota by Jeff LeClere

RINGNECK SNAKE (diadophis punctatus)

Description

Another small, nonvenomous snake measuring 10-15 inches. Ringneck snakes are uniform bluish-gray or black, slate, or brownish above with a bright yellow or orange becoming bright red under the tail. The belly mayor may not have small black dots on it (see subspecies). The scales are smooth and the anal plat~ is divided.

Subspecies - There are two species of ringneck snakes in Minnesota with no subspecies. The northern and the prairie ringnecks can be readily distinguished if observed closely. Generally, an educated guess based on locality can be used. If you find a ringneck in northern Minnesota, it is probably a northern ringneck snake, prairie ringnecks in the south. Prairie ringnecks are more numerous in Minnesota. To be sure, there is more reliable criteria to be used.

Northern Ringneck snake (Diadophis called the eastern ringneck snake. black spots on belly (these may be present), 15 scale rows on forward

punctatus edwardsi). Forma 11 y Neck ring complete, few or no

arranged in rows if they are part of body.

Prairie ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus arnyi). Neck rink is usually present, but is sometimes interrupted or (rarely) absent. Numerous black spots present and scattered randomly about venter, 17 scale rows on anterior part of body.

Range

In Minnesota the prairie ringneck appears to follow the St. Croix River as all their records are from counties bordering the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers. Their northern race is found in a few counties in northeast Minnesota. These are probably snakes that follow the border of Lake Superior.

MHS NEWSLE'ITER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 11

Habitat

Prairies woodlands and farmlands. They are found mainly on goat prairies'in Minnesota around the rocky outcroppings. Some, especially the northern race, are found near water. T~ey are not aquatic but moist prairies, meado~s and wood~ands provlde suitable habitat for them and thelr prey. Rlngnecks, as well as red-bellies, may occur in large colonies, but may ~e rare or absent in other localities that offer the same habltat and food availability. There are several new records added in Minnesota since Breckenridge's 1958 publication.

Habits

This secretive snake spends its days under logs, board, flat rocks and fallen bark. It is crepuscular, often found on trails or roads at dusk. The snout is somewhat pointed and the body is noticeably stronger and more rigid than other small snakes. It uses these features to burrow into loose soil or the decaying insides of logs. When cornered it may twist its tail into a tight coil exposing the shiny bright red underside. It may also play dead. when it is picked up it releases a mild mush and thrashes about. It seldom bites and even if it does, its tiny teeth won't puncture human skin.

Ringnecks hibernate in rock crevices, mammal burrows, anthills, road embankments or other underground shelters. They breed in spring and in 1-2 months the female lays 1-10 eggs in rotting logs or other decaying matter that is directly exposed to sunlight. A single female lays on average of 3- 4 eggs but many females may nest together as more than 40 eggs have been found in one nest. In the fall the baby ringnecks emerge from their small, leathery, off-white eggs. they are 4-5 inches long and identical to their parents.

Food

Earthworms, soft bodied insects (especially termites and their eggs), small salamanders, frogs, small snakes, lizards and newborn rodents. Larger prey is killed by suffocation.

Care

A 10 gallon tank is the cage of choice for these and other small snakes because, with a properly fitted screen top, these are escape proof cages. In addition to 10 gallons, 2 1/2 or 5 gallon tanks as well as the "Pet Worlds" sold in most pet stores are sufficient for keeping small snakes.

Newspaper, indoor/outdoor carpet, sphagnum moss and shavings are sufficient but you will probably have better luck with a 1/2 inch of soil or mulch on the bottom and bark or slate on top to hide under. Soil, mulch and bark should be baked at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes to kill parasites. Ringnecks do not do well with ventral heat so position a heat lamp directly over a piece of slate or bark on one side of cage to avoid over heating. They may not bask on top of bark or slate but will bask under it. They will do this with hot rocks as well. Keep the cage 75-85 degrees F during the day. It can drop a few degrees at night when the light is turned off.

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 12

Feeding ringnecks usually isn't a problem once they have acclimated to captivity, but expect them to be fastidious at first. Feeding them at dusk may help. Usually worms are readily accepted and this appears to me, their main choice of food in nature. It is well worth it to try pinkies as these will be the most nutritious food you can offer. If they don't eat pinkies straight, try rubbing them with tiger salamanders (Ambystoma t. tigrinum) or blue spotted salamanders (Ambystoma laterale). I suspect that the redbacked salamander (Plethodon cinereus) will work even better as this may be an important food item, especially for the northern ringneck. These snakes are cannibalistic so house them singly!

Breeding should be carried out in the same manner as the brown snake (Storiea d. texana). [see MHS Newsletter Vol. XIII #10] Keep them at 50-60 degrees F for 1-3 months, place the pair close together after they have warmed up for a week or two. Watch carefully and separate immediately after they have mated. If you keep them on newspaper, carpet or other non-burrowing substrate, provide the female with a small box containing burrowing material that is damp, NOT WET, in which to lay her eggs. Once she has laid her eggs, remove them carefully and place them in a shoe box or similar enclosure with sand, soil, vermiculite, or sphagnum moss. Do NOT bury the eggs! Indent them gently into the medium. Keep the eggs damp, not wet, by misting AROUND them onto the surrounding medium (a little water can get on eggs, just don't saturate them). Lightly mist them every 1-2 days. Keep the lid on the box and the temperature in the upper 80's to keep the humidity high. In 1-3 months the babies will emerge (they often don't leave the protection of the egg for a few days) and they will shed within 1-10 days. After their first shed you can begin feeding them. They are tough to get going at first, but if they et once they will usually continue to feed regularly. Most will refuse to eat and should be released where the mother was captured. You can try crickets and small worms in the beginning but switch to pinkies as soon as possible. They mature in 3-5 years.

References

Behler, John L. & F. Wayne King. 1979 The Audubon Society Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of North America.

Breckenri dge, W. J. 1944 Rept i7 es and Amph i bi ans of Minnesota.

Conant, Roger. 1975 A field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America.

Oldfield, B.L. and J.J. Moriarty. Distribution Maps for the Reptiles and Amphibians native to Minnesota

Rossi, John V. 1992 Snakes of the United States and Canada.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 13

HERP FACTS

THE AMERCIAN ALLIGATOR

, Class - Reptilia Order - Crocodi 1 i a Family - Alligatoridae

. "'"_.

The alligator ibelow) has a broad snout and all the teeth in its upper jaw overlap with those in the lower.

Genus & Species - Alligator mississipiensis

Fascinating Facts

* The name Alligator comes from the Spanish word el lagarto meaning "the lizard."

* The American alligator is the largest of all members of the crocodile family in North America.

* Alligators and crocodiles are descended from reptiles that lived between 225 and 65 million years ago.

* There are over 20 species of crocodiles in the world.

* The only other species of alligator is the smaller Chinese alligator alligator sinensis.

Sizes

Length: Weight:

Up to 18 feet. Tail accounts for half of length. 450-500 pounds!

Breeding

Mating Season: Number of Eggs: Hatching Time:

Lifestyles

April to May 25-60

2-3 months

Habit: Usually sol itary Diet: Insects, shrimp, tadpoles,

and frogs when young. Fish and small mammals when adult.

Lifespan: Up to 50 years

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I

• Range of the American alligator.

DISTRIBUTION Warm wetlands and swamps of the southeastern United States: Florida, Georgia, and Alabama,

PAGE 14

Habitat

The American alligator makes it's home in and around swamps and rivers. If water levels are low, the alligator will dig itself a hollow in the mud which becomes filled with water. These hollows can be as long as 65 feet! They use these hollows to avoid extremes of winter cold and summer heat because they remain fairly constant in temperature.

Breeding

American alligator courtship and mating takes place during the night in shallow water. The female will lay her eggs in a nest made of damp, rotting vegetation and mud. After laying her eggs she covers them with more vegetation which rots and gives off heat in the sun to help incubate the eggs.

The young hatch as exact miniature replicas of their parents only 8 inches long! The female will remain close to the nest to drive off intruders. The young will emit a high pitched croaking sound to alert the mother that they are ready to leave the nest. The juvenile alligators grow at a rate of 12 inches a year. They reach maturity at approximately 6 years of age.

ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES

Over some of its territory, the American alligator shares its habitat with the American crocodile, CrocodyJus acutus, which is far more rare. The two are very similar in appearance, although the crocodile is slightly smaller and less bulky and has a larger, narrower snout. The best way to tel! the two apart, however, is by comparing the heads.

rMCMXCllMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILE'~

The crocodile (leH) has a pair of enlarged teeth in the lower jaw which fit into a "notch" on each side of its snout. They can be seen even when the crocodile's mouth is shut.

Would you like to learn more information abo.ut a specific reptile or amphibian? Write the MHS Newsletter editor with your request to have it highlighted in HERP FACTS.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 15

MRS GENERAL CARE SREET FOR BOX TURTLES

Introduotion

Box turtles are among the most popular and beautiful of all turtles. They are quiet, easy to keep olean and long-lived. Nany are also inexpensive to purohase and may seem like the perfeot pet. However, they frequently are poorly treated before they reaoh your looal pet shop, resulting in disease and high death rates. Therefore, as with any pet purohase, it is reoommended that you read as muoh information on box turtles before you purohase to prepare yourself on how to seleot a healthy animal and understand the proper way to oare for it. Below are some general oare instruotions as well as some exoellent referenoes whioh oan be purohased through the Minnesota Herpetologioal Sooiety, your looal pet store, or they may be available at your looal library.

General Information

There are four North Amerioan box turtles oommonly offered in the pet trade today. -The eastern box turtle - Terrapene oaro1ina oaro1ina -The Gulf Coast box turtle - Terrapene oaro1ina major -The ornate box turtle - Terrapene ornata -The three-toed box turtle - Terrapene oaro1ina triullguis

Adult size: ranges from 4 to 7 inohes. Depending on raising oonditions, they oan reaoh adult size in 4 to 6 years.

Some terminology you should know: -Carapace - The upper part of the shell of a turtle -Plastron - The lower part of the shell of a turtle -Soutes - The horny plates that make up the surfaoe of the shell of a

turtle.

Sexing: Box turtles oan easily be sexed but there are differenoes between speoies and subspeoies. Usually the male has more oolorful marking on the faoe and legs and a oonoave plastron. Males· also have a thicker, longer tai 1.

Longevity: The average lifespan of box turtles is 30 - 40 years but may be longer.

Housing

Outdoors: Box turtles oan be kept outdoors in warm weather. Their enclosure MUST have a shaded area in the form of bushes, trees, eto., a hiding area against severe weather suoh as wooden boxes or hollowed out logs, and a shallow or sunken water dish large enough to olimb into. In addition, their enolosure must be dig and climb proof, two things box tu~tles like to do, and be oovered in some way to keep predators suoh as dogs and raocoons out! All of these are absolute requirements!

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 16

Indoors: Box turtles can be kept in wooden cages, glass aquariums or other waterproof containers with walls high enough so turtles cannot climb out. It is recommended that EACH turtle be kept in an area no smaller than a ten gallon aquarium (20 x 10 inches).

They need to be provided with a heat souroe either from above in the way of incandesoent lighting, or below suoh as an under the tank heater. Both methods are preferred to allow a heat gradient for the turtles. The temperature range should be 70 to 80 degrees. They also need a sturdy water bowl large enough to olimb into. This needs to be provided at all times! They should also have a sturdy wooden hide box or log. Bedding oan oonsist of newspaper or brown paper, slightly moistened peat-based potting soil, orohid bark, or sphagnum moss.

One important note: NEVER PUT YOUR TURTLE TANK IN A WINDOW FOR SUNLIGHT! Ultraviolet light does not penetrate glass and you may only succeed in cooking your turtle!

Host box turtles are omnivorous, feeding on plant and animal matter. They eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables as well as inseots, earthworms, and prepared foods such as riIonkey chow and dog food. The important thing to remember is to feed a variety of foods, don't feed too muoh of one food type espeoially lettuoe (mostly water) and high protein foods like monkey chow or dog food. Try kale, romaine lettuoe, peas, mangos, melons, squash, oriokets, earthworms pinky mioe, eto. Onoe again, VARIETY IS IMPORTANT for good health and to keep your turtle interested. You should also supplement their diet with a powdered calcium additive in the form of bone meal, powdered egg shells, or one of the several powdered oalcium products on the market.

Disease

There are many diseases that box turtles oan catch that won't be disoussed here. Onoe again, read about your turtle before your purchase. Host turtle books have seotions on disease and treatment. One common problem is respiratory infections, usually noticed by runny nose and eyes and wheezing. Keeping your turtle in a warm humid environment will keep this problem from oocurring. If your turtle shows these signs, inoreasing the temperature and humidity usually clears the pI'oblem up if done immediately. If you have any conoerns contaot your looal veterinarian, pet store speoializing in reptiles, or the Hinnesota Herpetological Society.

Referenoes A Resources

Enoyolopedia of Turtles by Peter Prichard General Care and Maintenanoe of Box Turtles by Philippe de Vosjoli Twin Cities Reptiles Box Turtle Care Sheet

Hinnesota Herpetologioal Sooiety 0/0 Bell Huseum of Natural History

10 Church street Hinneapolis, HN 55455

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1 PAGE 17

Art.;c:le of' Int.erest.

OGLOG IUCN/SSC Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force

I·~~~~ ~

._/

Salamanders Surprise Scientists

The California tiger salamander (Am­brstoma californiense), a state species o special concern and candidate for federal listing has demonstrated some unexpected features in results obtained from studies by scientists at the Hastings National History Reservation; this ac­cording to a report published in the University of Calilornia Natural Reserve System, Transect, 1992, Vol. 10(2).

The species was once widespread in temporary gonds in the Central Valley and Inner oast Range, but has been reported in decline for at least ten years. In the spring of 1990, Brad Shaffer (U.C. - Davis) initiated a survey of the species to determine its status. Salamanders were located in only 70 of 350 ponds sampled.

Dr. Shaffer and his' colleagues are studying the genetiCS of specimens from various localities in an attempt to ana­lyze population movements and specia­tion. In one pond more than 250 adults and 500 young of the year appeared; about ten times the projected number. For several weeks following breeding, the adults time after time went in and out of the pond, "perhaps to feed on land," while '1he young left the pond continu­ously over a period of several months" rather than just after heavy rainstorms.

Preliminary results indicate popula­tions experience many local ex1lnctions and recolonizations, with frequent mi­grations from pond to pond. Shaffer has concluded that the practice of preserv­ing a single pond may not prevent ex1inc­tion of a population and that larger tracts, with interconnected pond systems, are essential as sources of recolonization.

March, 1993, No.5

Management of Amphibian

Populations

Even the most current publications relating to wildlife management tech­niques essentially ignore the existence of amphibians. Reasons for this omis­sion can be traced to the historical asso­ciation of "wildlife" ecology with such agencies as departments of agriculture, and fish and game, that are primarily concerned with the management of spe­cies having more obvious economic and! or recreational importance.

A recent article on management of amphibian and reptile populations by Norman J. Scott, Jr., and Richard A. Seigel (1992. Wildlife 2001: Popula­tions. Edited by D.R. McCullough and R.H. Barrett. Elsevier Science Publ., Ltd. Essex, England. pp. 343-367) presents a lucid analysis of the economic status and management strategies of herptile species, from which have been excerpted these data and policies relating to am­phibians:

Scott and Seigel estimate the - total value of amphibians imported to, the U.S.A. in 1989 as specimens or prod­ucts to be in excess of $25 million. Major hazards to frogs and toads include unregulated harvests and habitat de­struction. Meat consumption is a pri­mary threat to some, such as the giant salamanders of Japan and China (Andrias sp.). Frog legs (Rana sp.) are consumed at the rate ofthree to four thousand tons per year in France, most being shipped from Bangladesh and Indonesia. The U.S.A. imports between one and two thousand tons annually. An estimated total of 200 million pairs of frog legs of Asian species are consumed in the U.S.A., Europe and Australia.

Most management practices of am­phibians have focused upon maintaining harvest quotas and captive rearing of rare and endangered species. The Fed­eral Register of 1991 listed 10 frog and 9 salamander populations as being le­gally protected by the U.S. Endangered

Species Act of 1973, but with few 8?,ceptions have any endangered spe­cies been successfully managed.

Management research has been much affected by Qovernment policies. which In turn are. Influenced by regional or national political and economic condi­tions rather than biological concerns. Detailed ecological studies are needed for many species: the ranid frogs have been Identified as one resource in critical need of attention.

Because amphibians are ectotherms ("cold-blooded") they differ (with rep­tiles) from other terrestrial animals. As a consequence of this important charac­ter, resource management practices may vary from those appropriate to birds and mammals (endotherms or "warm­blooded"). Ectotherms typically have a' lower metabolic rate (10-20%), and a dally energy reqUirement of 3-4% com­pared to that of Similar sized endotherms. Thus, by becoming inactive they can survive prolonged periods of unfavor­able environmental conditions, doing without food, in some cases for years. Their net energy conversion may be as high as 98%; thirty-five times more efficient than in endotherms. The impor­tance of amphibians and reptiles in the food web of most biological communi­ties is seldom recognized.

There are other important biological considerations applicable to management practices for amphibian populations. They are often subject to wide fluctua­tion in the apparent densities of popula­tions, both seasonally and over longer periods; thus monitOring population size for short periods is likely to produce biased data. The use of two distinct and distant habitats during breeding and non­breeding periods is also a common fea­ture. Because of reduced parental care (only 10% of amphibian species) there is low survival among eg~s and larvae of pond breeders (about 6 Yo). Determining )he causes of mortality at these staQes IS difficult but Important to identifying the character of population declines. (See accompanying article in this issue by D. Earl Green.)

There is considerable variation in ages at which sexual maturity is attained: from 0.7 to 12.0 years in salamanders; 0.75 to 6.0 years in frogs and toads. Although longevity records range from 5 to 55 years for specimens in captivity, these spans are probably much less In nature.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XN NUMBER 1 PAGE 18

Frequency of reproduction is also an important consideration. Whereas some salamanders in the temperate zones de­posit a single egg clutch in alternate years, some tropical anurans reproduce several times a year.

Theoretical models have shown that certain ectotherms establish stable popu­lations when predators are eliminated, and possibly maintain their reproductive rate while population sizes increase: these are characteristics not typical of birds and mammals.

Thus, the implications for manage­ment of amphibian species may reqUire different plans than those typically ap­plied to game species. Afthough the adults of frogs, toads and salamanders are more commercially valuable, it is the harvesting or 'exploitation of adults that should be regulated: eggs and larvae have very low survival rates, whereas~ adults tend to have a prolonged repro­ductive life.

Accurate estimates of population sizes in most amphibian species are often difficult to obtain, and adequate meth­ods for monitoring of many species have yet to be developed.

Formulation of standardized inven­tory and monitoring procedures is ur­gently needed to permit comparison of data among different localities and groups, as well as over time. A group of scientists at the Smithsonian Institution and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are now completing such a document. Such data are essential as management tools. However, many of the protocols are still untested and will necessarily require contmued evaluation and refinement.

Seventy Year Redux

Seventy years after Frank Blanchard's study of the amphibians and reptiles of Dickinson Co., Iowa (1923. Unlv. Iowa Studies in Nat. Hist. 10:19-26\, Michael J. Lannoo, Kenneth Lang, TIm Waltz and Gary Phillips resurveyed the region. Five species reported by Blanchard persist:

the eastern tiger salamander (Ambys­toma t. tiglinum), American toad (Bulo american us), western chorus frog (Pseudaclis t. tliseriata), gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor), and the northern leop­ard frog (Rana p. pipiens). Two species reported by Blanchard were not col­lected: the mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus) and ironically, Blanchard's cricket frog (Acris crepitans blanchardl). Two species not collected by Blanchard were found: the Great Plains toad (Bulo cognatus) and the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). The plains toad probably has migrated into Dickinson Co. from the west. The bullfrog was introduced by state fisheries biologists. From descnp­tions of the turn-of-the-century commer­cial "frogging" industry in Dickinson Co., Lannoo and his colleagues estimate that the number of leopard frogs has declined by at least two, and probably three, orders of magnitude, reflecting the loss of wetland habitat. Most of the remaining wetlands in this county are now protected. In their opinion, the most immediate threat to the eXisting populations of native amphibians comes from the impact of the Introduced bull­frog. This project marks the beginning of a continuous program of amphibian moni­toring in the region.

America's (Sic)

Biodiversity Agenda

The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior have released a jOint report, "America's Biodiversity Strategy: Ac­tions to Conserve Species and Habi­tats." The report outilnes actions taken by the two departments to enhance biological diversity. Examples Include (a) establishing specially protected ar­eas or habitats on about 10% of the U.S. land mass; (b) special considerations for biodiversity on the 20% of the U.S. land mass owned by the Federal government; (c) reducing wetland conversion through conservation reserves, wetland reserves. 'swampbuster," and similar programs; (d) acquiring sensitive lands; (e) restor­ing degraded habitats; (f) enacting I,,:ws and policies to conserve fish, wlldhfe, and plant species; and (g) ex situ conser­vation of species and germ plasm In .zoos, botanical gardens, and other off-Site lo­cations.

Although the report focuses on "set­asides; it recognizes that private land­owners own the majority of the U.S. land mass and their involvement will be criti­cal to the success of any conservation efforts. The authors also recognize that "the challenge is to conserve biological diversity consistent with human SOCial and economic well-being." Although availability of the report is limited, a copy may be requested by writing: Director, Office of Program Analysis, U.S. Depart­ment of the Interior, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240, U.S.A. For more information, contact: Dr. Ben Wigley at 803-656-0840.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1

Relict Ranges and

Old-Growth Forests'

Hartwell H. Welsh, Jr. reports on relict amphibians and old-growth forests in Conservation Biology (1990. VolA, No.3:309-319). Terrestrial and aquatic herpetofauna were sampled over a three­year period to examine the importance of forest age to herptiles. Fifty-four terrestrial and 39 aquatic sites in Dou­glas fir-dominated and mixed evergreen forest were located in southwestern Oregon and northwestern California. Mean ages of trees ranged from 30 to 560 years. Thirty one species of am­phibians and reptiles were found In 93 localities.

Only three species occurred primarily at older forest sites: the Del Norte salamander IPlethodon elongatus) , the Olympic sa amander \Rhyacotriton olympicus), and the tailed rog (Ascaphus truel). Paleoecological evidence eluci­dates the historical association of these three amphibians and the extant ele­ments of ancient primeval coniferous forests of the Pacific northwest. The life histories and habitat requirements of these species suggest that they are scarce in younger forests because of microclimate and microhabitat conditions they require generally exist only in older forests. The long term stability of these species in northern California and south­ern Oregon will depend upon developing forest practices that protect the cntical environmental conditions.

PAGE 19

Gila Monster

(Heloderma suspectum)

COLOR ME!

MRS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1

Range: Southwestern United States and northern Mexico

Size: Up to 60 cm

Lifespan: Up to 20 yrs. in captivity

Facts: Nocturnal ground dweller, one of only two venomouslizards, diet consists of small ground nesting birds, eggs, and rodents.

.. :~--

Here is the answe~' to last month t e -Herp Find- puzzle:

Syl-,PCSIU!·: •••••••• • egG G G n I 1 I A H S E •

• • • • • • • • .. • • • • L ,. . : : : : : : : : : T : : : : F.: : : : &Rr~T~EL3whnO •• A •••••

• RR ••• RA. 0... . .... T •• E.D • • • H ••••••••••• LD •• 0 •

• !<: ........ o •• NE •• PC •• R .·.·0·.· ... _0 ~.:.:A ....... s ... T A

S • • • • p s . .. BUR :tt, E S 1': • • I F. E •••• NES.A.A ....... OC L ••.• A.I'TN ... L ••••••• NI I ... K.R .AOA?-fPHIBIANSL T.E.A.U.SL.... ..r PS.Z.G .t.. ..A E.!.! G. • .• n R L • Y S

PAGE 20

Want Ad Feature of the Month

HELP WANTED: Public Education Coordinator. No pay. Lousy Hours. Weekend work required. Must own car. Must be able to work with public. * Great job satisfaction Inquire within.

After 4 and 1/2 years, the time has come for me to step down as Public Education Coordinator and turn the reins over to someone else.

We have come a long way since I took the job in 1989. At that time we only did a few events a year - mostly at Como Zoo, and we generated very little income. Now we do over twenty events including Renaissance Festival and generate almost $2000 per year in income. We reach many thousands of people per year. In· addition, we are now insured with a one million dollar liability policy.

The credit for this success has to.go to the core of volunteers who regularly participate in these events. Without these people none of this would be possible.

There is much more we can and should do. It will take someone with fresh enthusiasm and ideas. I'm sure there are some of you out there who could do a great job and I hope one of you will come forward and fill the position.

The Public Education Coordinator makes contacts, organizes the events and does the set up. The set up would be laying out the area, setting up the signs and laying out the merchandise. This person is also responsible for any money received for the event and sale of MHS items. In addition, you are responsible for the behavior of all of the MHS participants. This includes making sure the intecaction between the public and the animals follow MHS guidelines.

I will still be available to help get you going.

To the volunteers who have supported me at Hands-On events, It's been a real pleasure and your help has been appreciated more than I can tell you. .

Bill Moss

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I PAGE 21

C'a.ssified Ads 1.0.0 = male, 0.1.0 = female, 0.0.1= unknown

lUI SAUl

0.1.0 8 ft. Burmese python $125, 1.1 colombian red-tailed boas, 2 yr old male, 3 yr old female, $325 for p·air. 0.0.1 juvenile boa constrictor $125. 1.1 Bullsnakes, 2 yrs old captive born - $30 pro Eastern milksnakes, 4 yrs old $15. Call (715)425-8888 weekdays & (715) 426·9966 weekends & evenings.

1.0.0 African rock python, 6 ft, feeding on frozen bunnies, $125. 0.1.0 Green anaconda, '93 baby, feeding on adult frozen rats, $325. 1.0.0 12 ft burmese, $200. Contact Karl Hermann (612) 774·1044 •

Stainless steel rodent breeding cages with water bottles, 110 ea. Contact Hike (507) 289·3916.

Large selection of lizards and baby snakes avail. now and expected. Buy breeder direct. Call or write for details, Aaron Hampton, 10252 Harble Arch Ln., St. Lonis, MO 63123 (314) 638-6218.

FROZEN RODENTS: Mice pinks 25 cents, adults 35 cents, hreeders 50 cents. Rats are 75 cents for veaners, adults start at $1.25 and up. Jumbo occasionally avail. Call or write for info, KJ's Rodents, iRI Box 266, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 (218) 439-6999.

0.0.20 red & white candy cane corns x snow corns, $25. 0.0.7 Okatee's $15. Just in time for X-mas. David 612-444-9775.

fAlflD

Adult snakes· 0.1 Northern pine, 0.1 Mexican black kingsnake, 0.1 black pine. Contact Mike (507) 289-3916.

Casque-headed borned tree frogs (Hemipbractus probiscideus) or monkey tree frogs, would also like to exchange infor on red eye tree frogs, true chameleons, solomon island skinks. Call Corey Lewellyn (414) 235-8605.

All the shed snakes skins in the world, always, to use at hands-on programs, Boh Duerr 541·9417.

lIse:

SNAKE SKINS TANNED. Call Jane for nore info at 724·7437.

BOA SURYEY: Please write for my questionaire on Boa constrictor reproduction. Even if your animals have not reproduced, please respond if they are least 4 yrs old and have had the opportunity. In return for a completed survey you will receive a chart showing the subspecies, their scale counts and range. William Joy, P.O. Box 821433, Dallas, TX 75382-1433. INTERNET: 72223.220!COMPUSERVE.COM

TIMBER RATTLESNAKE - LIMITED EDITION PRINT By DAN KEYLER

This print is from an original pen & ink drawing and is limited to an edition of 141 signed and numbered prints. Each print will cost $15.00 and can be personalized upon request. MRS members interested in purchasing a print should contact the artist at MRS meetings or by calling 347-8760 (w) or 933-2055 (h). Proceeds will be used to recover printing costs and further Timber Rattlesnake research in Minnesota. So place your order soon - they won't last long.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XN NUMBER I PAGE 22

ANIMALS WANTED: (Partial List) Albino King-snakes * Milk-BIlak" * Ret-snakes Albino a Regular COIn-snakes * Boa Conauieto" Taranlulas * Albino a Re~lar Burmese Pytho .. Leopard a Sulcal. Torloises * Bearded Dr~'

Emerald Troo ll>a, * Poison Amw F1qss Anacondas * and * Leopard Geekos

1hb is jllS~ a umple of the a.nlmals n uason. w~ &~

JOHN & RUTH MELTZER (612) 263-7880

WECURRENny HAVE A HUGE SELECTION OF

CAPTIVE PRODUCED GEMS. CALL AND RESERVE

YOURS NOW!

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER 1

FOR SALE OR PETIING zoos PARTIES OR PROMOTIONS

ANIMALS OF WALTON'S HOLLOW EXOTIC &: FARM ANIMALS

BILL &: JEAN WALTON 5425 PETERSON ROAD

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55127·6713 (612) 426-8163

s:mIJOJlD' S EXOTIC .ANIMAL HOUSE BILLY SECORD (612 )-920-4802

SPECIALIZES IN CAPTIVE BREED1NG OF FINE EXOTIC MAMMALS_ HEDGEHOGS, FENNEC FOX,

AND MANY OTHERS! USDA LICENSED!

Largest Selection of Reptiles & Amphibians in Minnesota Cages, Books, Feed & Supplies

540 Winnetka Ave. No. Golden Valley, Mn 55427

Sat 10·5 Sun 12-5

(612) 593-029B

Featuring •.. lAMS .•• KT ••• ProPlan ... Science Diet Tetra •.• Toppers .•. Other Specialty Foods

VIVARIUM PETS A Full Line of Pet Supplies &

Unusual Pets

6519 Nicollet Ave. So. Richfield, MN 55423

Gloria Anton 612-861-8866

PAGE 23

MHS Classified Ads

All proceeds from the sales of MHS merchandise and donated items goes towards the operating costs of the society such as; speaker fees, books for the library, herp related charitable donations, newsletter printing, etc. MHS is a non -profit organization and is volunteer run.

Rat and Mice Sales

MICE

Pinkies - $6.00 doz. Fuzzies - $6.00 doz. Adults - $9.00 doz.

RATS

Pups - $10.00 doz. Adults - $12.00 for six

$24.00 doz.

Orders taken by Terry Scheiber only! Must be made at least one week before the general meeting where they will be delivered.

Phone: (612) 440-7482

***** Mice and rats must be purchased by the dozen except for adult rats which can be purchase in allotments of six. Rat pinkies unavailable. ***** Cage Sales

Cages come pre-built but unfinished with the following; laminate interior, hinged mitered door, glass window, latch, incandescent light fixture and cord. A 7.5 watt bulb will be included. Some cages are available for immediate purchase at the meetings.

*** MHS does not take responsibility for any injuries to animal if purchaser uses a higher wattage bulb or other hardware. *** Specifications I x w x h

small: 24 x 18 x 12 $ 50 large: 48 x 18 x 18 $ 75

MHS also offers an assortment of other herp related items for sale at the general meeting. These include:

Books MHS stickers, decals Posters MHS buttons Note cards Bumper stickers T -shirts, several styles

Look for sales of MHS merchandise and items at the far right hand side of the meeting room. Items will be for sale during the break and before and after the meeting if time permits. Please have sales final before the meeting begins so as not to disrupt the meeting proceedings.

MHS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XIV NUMBER I PAGE 24

CLASSIFIED AD INSTRUCTIONS: Ads are run as a free service to paid members. MHS takes NO responsibility for legality or health of animal advertised here. Ads may be run for three consecutive months at which time ads may be re-submitted. The editor reserves the right to omit ads when space is limited so as to allow all members a chance to advertise. Size of ad is limited to four (4) typed lines or one (1) standard size business card. DEADLINE for all newsletter items is one week before the general meeting.

NON MEMBER & EXPANDED SIZE ADS: Line ads:$.l 0 per word. Business Cards: $5.00 per month.

Quarter page ads: Half page ads: Full page ads:

One month only $10.00 per month $20.00 per month $40.00 per month

Three or more months $7.50 per month $15.00 per month $25.00 per month

Six or more months $5.00 per month $10.00 per month $15.00 per month

Send all newsletter items to: Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter Editor, 234 West George Street, St. Paul, MN 55107.

MEMBERSHIP AND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

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ADDRESS~ ________________________________ _

CITY _____________ _ STATE---- ZIP CODE

PHONE _____________ _ LIST IN MHS DIRECTORY? YES NO __

HERPRELATEDINTERESTS: __________________________ _

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP? NEW __ RENEWAL __

MEMBERSHIP LEVEL? ---SUSTAINING ..... $60.00

__ CONTRIBUTING ..... $30.00

-_INSTITUTION .... $25.00

__ BASIC .... $15.00

Are you currently ( or will be ) a University of Minnesota student? __ (check if yes)

HOW DID YOU HEAR OFMHS? ___________________________ _

Newest T-Shirts Two Designs ($17 .00 includes postage)

Circle Choice North American Turtles Iguana (Head Shot)

Indicate how many of each size SMALL__ LARGE __

ADULTS: MEDIUM X-LARGE

NEW POISON DART FROG T-SHIRT

($14.00 postage included) Indicate how many of each size

SMALL__ LARGE __ KIDS __ ADULTS:

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Please enclose payment. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society. Membership is for 12 months from date of joining. A receipt will be sent only on request. Allow 6-8 weeks for processing. MAIL TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Bell Museum Of Natural History, 10 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

10 CHURCH STREET S. E. MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

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DELIVER BY JANUARY 26,1994

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Non-Profit Rate U. S. Postage

PAID Mpls.MN

Permit No. 2275