May 2000 Newsletter

Upcoming Meeting The Vice-president's Report By Tony Gamble

June General Meeting Program:

"Axolotls and the Indiana University Axolotl Colony"

Guest Speaker. Sandra Borland

The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a large salamander that spends its entire life underwater and lives only in Lake Xochimilco in the mountains, southeast of Mexico City. The axolotl is closely related to our native tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum) and superficially resemble the tiger salamander's larval stage. What makes axolotls unique, though, is the inability to metamorphose into the adult terrestrial form, a trait termed neotony.

The exact meaning of the name HaxolotJu is the source of debate among herpetologists. Hobart Smith claims it is the Aztec word for !!water dog". Others feel it is derived from the Aztec god of ball-playing and the protector of twins, Xolotl. Regardless of its precise meaning, the axolotl has intrigued both scientists and locals for decades. The very idea of a salamander that spends its whole live in its larval form and even reproduces in the 'Juvenile" stage has led to intense research and as a result they are one of the most thoroughly studied amphibian species. In fact axolotls have been kept and bred in captivity since the 1860s!

THE MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Our June speaker, Sandra Borland, is curator of the Indiana University Axolotl Colony, a self-sustaining, breeding colony ofaxolotls supported by the National Science Foundation. The Axolotl Colony is a genetic stock center dedicated to supplying laboratories and classrooms throughout the world genetically well­characterized axolotl embryos, larvae, and adults.

Her talk will touch on every aspect of the axolotl including natural history, captive care, and current research. She will also discuss her job as curator of the colony at Indiana University.

Upcoming Meetings:

July 7, 2000 - John Hogston IIMonitor Lizards: An Overview of Varanids of the World"

Aug4,2000-TBA

Sept 8, 2000 - Dr. Fred Janzen "Sex­determining Mechanisms in Reptiles"

Oct 6, 2000 - Dr. Robert Powell l1Advenhlres in the Caribbean: Herpetology On Tropical Islands."

Nov 3, 2000 - Phil Tremper HBreeding Rare Geckos"

Volume 20 Number 5

The 1,()()()th Tortoise­A Milestone in Galapagos

Repahiation Program

On March 24, 2000 a very important event took place in Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz in Galapagos. The 1,()(J()!h tortoise was repatriated to its native island of Espanola marking a milestone for the tortoise breeding program of the Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS) and the Galapagos National Park.

In 1965, the CDRS established the Reptile Rearing Center to prevent the extinction of tortoise races in various islands caused by the menace of introduced species and humans. Between 1965 and 1974, 14 tortoises were found (12 females and 2 males) in the island of Espanola and were transferred to the Breeding Center in Santa Cruz. In 1971, the first baby tortoises were hatched and were repatriated in 1975. In 1977 an adult male was returned to the Breeding Center from the San Diego Zoo increasing the number of breeding males to three.

Galapagos is home to an astonishing array of unique and endemic flora and fauna, and is a very small but valuable jewel in the biodiversity crown. Thanks to the collaboration between the Galapagos National Park and CDRS, the giant tortoise conservation program, and others like it, have not only been pOSSible, but have exceeded all expectations. We are grateful to the international community of donors and supporters who have all helped to make this work possible.

OJarles Darwin Foundation 1000 n. Washington St. Suite 232 Falls OJuTch, VA. 22046 Email: info@galapagos.org

Board of Directors President Bill Moss (651) 488-1383

Mngatorguy@mindsprinl}com

Vice President Tony Gamble (612) 818-{i861

Agamble@pclink.com

Recording Secretary Julie Beauvais (612)321-W58

beawOOl@b:.unm.edu

Membership Secretary Mark Schmidtke (651) 481-ill27

meschmi@usw-est.com

Treasurer Marilyn Blasus (952) 925-4237

mblasus@arbitrade.com

Newsletter Editor Nancy Halg (763) 434-&;84

nanchaig@citilink.com

Members at large Jodi L. Ahems Mike Burpee

(612) 588-9329 (651) 89413722

mbreptiles@aol.com Nancy Hakomaki (651) 631-1380

nmgatorgal@mindsprinl}com Michelle Hewitt (651) 604-0314 Keith Tucm (612) 321-0958

tuckozz@te.unm.edu

Committees Adoption Sarah Richard (612) 781-3868

RealSarah@aol.com

Education Jan Larson (5Q7) 2634391

janskunkhollow@juno.com

Northern Minnesota Jeff Korbel (218) 588-2588

Rodent Sal"" Tina Osewski (612) 856-2868

Hew Assistance Amphibians Greg Kvanbek (651) 383-0305 John Meltzer (612) 263-7880 John Moriarty (651) 482-8109

O1ameIeons Vern & Laurie GrassEl (612) 428-4625

Crocodilians Jeff Lang (701) m-0227 Bill Moss (651) 488-1383

Lizards NancyHalg (612) 434-&;84

large boas, Pythons Tina Osewski (612) 856-2868

Other snakes JeffLeOere (651) 488-6388 John Meltzer (612) 263-7880

Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash (612) 753-{)218 John Levell (5Q7) 467-3076

Terr€61rial Turtles FredBosman (612) 476-0306 John Levell (5Q7) 467-3076

The Minnesota Herpetological Society

Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church Street, SE,

Minneapolis Minnesota, 55455-0104

Voice Mail: (612) 624-7065 Email: MinnHerps@aol.com

Internet http://www.omampinc.net/mhs!

May 2000 Volume 20, Number 5

The purpose of the Minnesota Herpetological Society is to

• Further the education of the membership and the general public in care and captive propagation of reptiles and amphibians;

• Educate the members and the general public in the ecological role of reptiles and amphibians;

• Promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

The Minnesota Herpetological Society is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. Membership is open to all individuals with an interest in amphibians and reptiles. The Minnesota Herpetological Society Newsletter is published monthly to provide its members with information concerning the society's activities and a media for exchanging information, opinions and resources.

General Meetings are held at Bodaug Hall, Room 335 on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota, on the first Friday of each month (unless there is a holiday conflict). The meeting starls at 7:00 pm and lasts about three hours. Please check the MHS Voicemail for changes in schedules or cancellations.

Submissioll8 to the Newsletter Ads or Notices must be submitted no later than the night of the General Meeting to be included in the next issue. Longer articles will be printed as time and space allows. All active members are allowed a classified ad, run free of charge as space permits. Business cards are run for $5.00 per month. Items may be sent to: or Emailed to:

The Minnesota HerpetolOgical Society Attn: Newsletter Editor Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church St. SE Minneapolis, MN. 55455-m04

nanchaig@citilink.com

Snakebite Emergency Hennepin Regional Poison Center

1- (800) -764-7661 This should work for both local and out state calls

Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society 2000. Content. may be reproduced for non-profit use proVided that all material is reproduced without change and proper credit is given authors and the MHS Newsletter ci~ volume, number and date.

MHS Newslelter Volume 20 Number 5

NEWS, NOTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Critter Of The Month

Tony Gamble Homed Frogs Ceralophrys ssp

Torn & Cheri Sassa Eastern Hognose

Evan Morris

Helerodon platyrhinos

Veiled Chameleon Olanteleo rnlyplrtus

Keith Tucker Black Sumatran Blood Python

Python curtus ssp

Help a Hapless Herp

Animals adopted at the May meeting:

1 Box Turtle 2 Ball Pythons 1Comsnake 2 Green Iguanas 1 Green Basilisk 1 Bullsnake 1 Moo. Common Boa

Still available 5 Common Boas 2 Iguanas 2 Burmese Pythons 2 American Alligators 2 Caimans @ 2ft 1 Jungle Carpet Python

If you are interested in adopting anirnaIs please conlact Sarah Richard at (612) 781-3868

Thanks Raffle Donors

Randy Blasus T-shirt

Barb Buzicky Frog chimes, Frog and turtIe slatues

Judy McDermott frog pinwheel, Squeak toy

HENNEPIN PARKS NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT 3800 Couuty Rd. 24

Maple Plain, MN 55359 763-476-4663

MEMO TO: MRS Newsletter Editor

DATE April 13, 2000

FROM: Madeleine Linck, Wildlife Technician (and MRS member)

SUBJ. Blanding'S Turtle mmmt

Hennepin Parks would like to encourage MRS members to stop in at Hennepin Parks' Eastman Nature Center at Elm Creek Park Reserve to see the Blanding's Turtle mount on display. The display was made possible by a grant funded by MRS in 1999. This - 40 year-old female turtle lived in Hennepin Parks' Crow-Hassan Park Reserve along the Crow-River. She was marked Turtle #1001 (notched with a file on two marginal scutes) by Hennepin Parks wildlife staff in 1992 and fitted with a radio transmitter in 1993. From 1993 through 1997, staff and volunteers tracked her to overwintering, basking and nesting sites throughout Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. She was observed nesting four years in a row, always in June, on the prairie. In February 1999, she was found frozen at the edge of her overwintering marsh, perhaps having been caught out of the water in the late freeze up in the faU of 1998. Since Elm Creek Park also is known to have a population of Blanding's Turtles, the display will help educate the park visitors about this Slate Threatened species and encourage other reports and observations.

Eastman Nature Center is located norihwest of Osseo in northern Hennepin County and visitors will see a number of exhibits of both live (several species of reptiles and amphibians) and mounted animals. Many thanks to the Minnesota Herpetological Society for preserving Turtle 1001.

l __ cf!~r!s~!f __ J 3: CHtWCARl ClH1TRS twSIHES$ LCIHCH(OHS t j

cu.sSRGCmS CHURCH GROWS , S1l1DlHfS SDUORJ

lOY HORQlIIST

(Son 645 - 2751 I (877) S66 - 9949

3

MHS Newsletter Volume 20 Number 5

A True Hands- On

MHS Presents Class at Animal Control Conference

Amongst the classes on large animal tranquilizers, wild animal population management and feral cats, recent Mirmesota Association of Animal Control Conference attendees were able to participate at a at a very lively presentation on reptile handling by MHS Volunteers. For the second time in 4 years officers were able to hone (or in some cases develop) their skills stalking and capturing the wily Iguana and controlling ravenous bullsnakes and boas.

Held annually, the conference is designed to provide instruction to animal control and community service officers from across the state. This yearts conference, held in Morton was the second the MHS has appeared at. Approximately 50 attendees from every area of the state attended the two-day conference. The first day's activities included several classes on wild animal population control and management and basic trapping and capture techniques. The second day, after morning classes on large animal capture (nets work great on almost anything but raccoons) the MHS presentation was scheduled for the entire afternoon.

Meeting a Nile Monitor for the first time

Since the event was organized by Sarah Richard, after a brief introduction she took the lead describing the MHS and our aims and goals. Then alternating with Nancy Haig and George Richard we displayed, described and answered questions on over 30 different herps for the 40 some class attendees. Some were of course very knowledgeable regarding certain herps; others displayed the not uncommon phobias we have all witnessed at Hands-Ons.

After a short break, (during which we of course continued to answer questions and exlubit animals) the Hands-On portion of the presentation began. Breaking into three groups each volunteer then demonstrated basic handling and control techniques for a different animal, and let the officers hold each animal. Then despite their tralning, understanding of Hands-On rules, and the presence of several law officers, each volunteer released their anin\al and discussed capture techniques. Since several of the previOUS classes had discussed the subject but none had actually done anything more exciting than tell war stories, the officers were more than ready.

I"·

4

We soon had several groups of officers stalking iguanas with blankets and trying to tickle boas or bullsnakes into pillowcases. Which was definitely a more low-tech approach than many of the capture devices previously mentioned. The central idea is a simple capture and safe containment of the herps with materials readily available.

Once everyone who wanted to try their hand had done so, we resettled and took a look at some of the more common (and uncommon) reptiles available and discussed bites, venomous snakes and answered general questions long after the meeting was officially over. Several attendees later commented how much they enjoyed the class and that it was the best at the seminar.

As I reflected on the event on the ride home, I realized how much safer herpetology as a hobby might be if the animal control officer was able to approach a Burm or Boa with a little respect, some understanding but without fear.

(Submitted /Jy George Richard)

Shelley LeTendre. 612-943-4011

Call For An AppOintment

MHS Newsletter Volume 20 Number 5

FROM OUR MEMBERS I

Subject: [Asian-Turtle-Crises] Turtles at CITES­update

from Glen M. Jacobsen Tortoise Trust USA, Treasurer herplaw@rconnect.com http://www.toltoiselrust.org

For your information:

FRESHWATER TURTLES AND TORTOISES at the CITES COP:

As well as proposal 11.36, to place the genus Cuora on Appendix II, the CITES Conference of Parties has also worked on a resolution concerning the Asian turtle trade. The following are extracts from the daily report in the Earth Negotiations BuUeting. accessible at http://www.iisd.ca/cites/cop11/

Wednesday 12 April "FRESHWATER TURlLES AND

TORTOISES IN SOUTIlEAST ASIA:

GERMANY introduced a discussion paper addressing conservation impacts of the increasing turtle trade (Doc. 11.35). The Secretariat said it would be difficult to support recommendations of a non­listed species. Many delegates, including the US, INDONESIA, AUSTRAliA, CfIlN~ CAMBOD~, the NETHERLANDS and JAPAN supported further discussion in a working group. "

Thursday 13 April=20 "GERMANY announced the group

succeeded in finalizing a draft resolution urging. inter aIia, Parties to increase enforcement efforts; develop programmes to monitor trade impact; and increase public awareness of threats to wild populations. An annex to the resolution requests the Secretariat to convene a technical workshop establishing conservation priorities and encouraging Parties and NGOs to assist range States in capacity building. "

Wednesday 19 April: "FRESHWATER TURTLES AND

TORTOISES: GERMANY presented a draft

resolution on trade of the species (Com. 11.7), which urges Parties to increase enforcement efforts with regard to existing legislation. The resolution was adopted. n

Tuesday 18 April : "ASIAN BOX TURTLES:

GERMANY and the US presented a proposal covering four species of Box Turtles for Appendix II inclusion (prop. 11.36). The proposal was adopted.

SPOTTED TURTLE: The US outlined their proposal to include the Spotted Turtle in Appendix II (prop. 11.37) citing the negative impact of international trade specifically for pet collecting. The EU and SWITZERLAND opposed noting that domestic rather than international trade impacted the species. COLOMB~, CANADA and KENYA expressed support The proposal was rejected by vote.

AFRICAN SPURRED TORTOISE: FRANCE, invoking the Precautionary Principle, presented its proposal to uplist the Tortoise (Prop. 11.38). SUDAN, TOGO, BENIN and GHANA rejected the proposal.

FRANCE's revised proposal to leave the Tortoise on Appendix II with a zero-quota for wild species was adopted.

PANCAKE TORTOISE: KENYA outlined its revised

proposal, co-sponsored by the US, requesting an Appendix II listing with a zero-quota for wild species (prop. 11.39). TANZANIA opposed, noting that trade in wild species is already banned. KENYA withdrew the proposal and agreed to work with Tanzania to ensure wild species.

5

HAWKSBILL TURTLE: CUBA withdrew a joint proposal to downlist this species allowing for an initial export to Japan of its existing stockpile and an annual quota of 500 specimens after this (Prop. 11.40). She instead urged Parties to support another proposal allowing for only a one-off sale with Japan (prop. 11.41). She said specimens found in Cuban waters do not warrant listing in Appendix I and noted the work of the national management programme had prevented illegal trade. FIJI noted there was no size differentiation between shells that would indicate maturity and sex of the specimens. JAPAN entered a reservation on Appendix I listing of the Hawksbill Turtle, noting the proposal would not affect existing national legislation and monitoring controls. SOU1H AFRICA said the proposal is justified as a sovereign national decision and is sustainable since the shells come from dead specimens. The OOMINCAN REPUBUC, GUINE~ HONDURAS, NAMIB~ MONGOliA, BENIN, ZIMBABWE, VANUATU, JAMAICA, ANTIGUA and BARBUDA supported the proposal. The EU, BRAZIL, KENYA, the BAHAMAS, the UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, the US and CANADA opposed the downlisting. with many citing the threat of illegal trade and the risk incumbent with downlisting the whole population in Appendix II, especially when migratory habits render its management difficult The UK called for a global seminar on this issue before COP-12 WWF agreed that it was premature to downlist the whole population and offered funds for a workshop. TRAFFIC supported the downlisting and close monitoring of the effects of the one-off trade. CUBA called for a secret ballot Delegates rejected the proposal.

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS: GERMANY and the US withdrew their respective proposals on the Quince Monitor Lizard (Prop. 11.43) and the Timber Rattlesnake (prop. 11.44). Delegates adopted proposals to delete the Sonoran Green Toad from Appendix II (prop. 11.45) and to include the frog genus in Appendix II (prop. 11. 46).

MHS Newsletter Volume 20 Number 5

Proposed Changes to the MHS Bylaws

The Board of Directors has reviewed the current MHS Bylaws and is suggesting the following changes. Members of the MHS are asked to review these proposed changes in preparation for voting at the July General Meeting on accepting or rejecting the changes. Once accepted by a majority of the members voting at the July General Meeting, these changes will be in effect

Proposed changes to: Article N. : Officers and Committees Section 4.02

Currently Written:

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.

Proposed Change 1

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 commencing I anuary 1.

Reason: To define when the newly elected board takes effect

(Note: Voting NQ means the bold underlined words are not added.)

Proposed Change 2

Offiee .. Board of Diredors may serve only two (2) terms consecutively.

Reason: To change the terminology to include Officers and members-at-large in the limitation of consecutive terms.

(Note: Voting NQ means only Officers have will have a 2 year term limit Voting YllS means members-at-large are included in having term limits.)

Proposed Change 3

(Officers/Board o/Directors} may serve OIlIy two (2l four (4) terms consecutively.

Reason: Although a term is for a full year, a person can only run for the same position 2 years in a row, then they have to step down or run for a different position. This change would allow them to run for the same position 4 times in a row, thus the society could benefit from their accumulated experience.

(Note: Voting NQ means term limits stay at 2 years, voting YllS means the term limits will change to 4 ~

Proposed Change 4

N .. 0 .Ielter Edile. ""d Treasurer will have no limit to term length.

Reason: Taking change 3 a step further the Board feeIs the treasurer is a unique poSition requiring more skills than the other board positions, and there are very few members that are interested or even qualified to run for Treasurer. Therefore, the Board suggests that if someone really wants the position they should be able run for it without any term limitations. Newsletter Editor term limit would encourage new perspectives and turnover.

(This was amended in 1990 to include the Treasurer with the Newsletter Editor as having unlimited terms. Since that time we have had 5 Newsletter Editors and only one Treasurer.)

(Note: voting NQ means the wording stays the same Both the Newsletter Editor and Treasurer will have unlimited terms, voting YllS means only the Treasurer will have unlimited terms.).

6

MHS Newsletter Volume 20 Number 5

Proposed Changes to the MHS Bylaws

Proposed Change to Article V. : ELECTIONS Section 5.02

Currently Written: Section 5.02 Submission of Slate of Voters. The slate of officers shall be submitted by the Chair of the

Nomination Committee to the Recording Secretary at least thirty (30) days prior to the Annual Meeting. The Recording Secretary shall then prepare and distribute a ballot to every voting member at the Annual Meettog.

Proposed Change 5

Section 5.02 Submission of Slate of Voters. The slate of ufftcers candidates shall be submitted by the Chair of the Nomination Committee to the Recording Secretary at least thirty (30) days prior to the Annual Meeting. The Recording Secretary shall then prepare and distribute a ballot to every voting member at the Annual Meettog

Reason: In order to clarify the meantog of this section to include all directors of the Board on the ballot instead of just the ~ as stated. ( Currently all directors are on the ballot anyway, this simply adjusts the wording to the actual system.)

(Note: voting NQ means the wording stays the same and only officers need to be listed on the ballo~ Voting ::LllS.means eveIYone running for a board position needs to be listed on the ballot)

Proposed Change to Article VI. : MEETINGS Section 6.01

Currently Written:

Section 6.01 Annual Meeting. There shall be an Annual Meeting of MHS on the first meeting day in the month of March, at a place to be determined by the Board of Directors.

Proposed Change: 6

Section 6.01 Annual Meeting. There shall be an Annual Meeting of MHS on the first meeting day in the month of Marclr November, at a place to be determined by the Board of Directors.

Reason: To line up the terms of the Board of Directors with the fiscaL program, and calendar year. (Currently the fiscal and program year runs from Jan. - Dec. The board terms run from March to the tum-over to the new board in the follOWing March.)

(Note: Voting NQ means the wording stays the same and the Annual Meeting is in March, voting m means the Annual meeting would be in November .. )

Changes to the MHS Bylaws can be submitted to the Board of Directors for consideration follOwing the guidelines in Article VIII. : Miscellaneous- Section 8.01 -Amendments and Repeal, and Section 8.02- Approval of Amendment by Board of Directors

7

is N,,","" v,,~, W N""';;appy Birthday MHS

MRS Turns 19!

May 1981

The first Meeting of the Minnesota Herpetological Society was held at Room 225 Smith Hall, East Bank, U of M. 36 members approved the constitution and voted in the Board of Directors. Delvin Jones was elected as the first President Basic Membership cost $5. During the first year the meeting agenda was created: Speaker Presentations, Critter of the Month, Herp Hints, Rodent Sales-Mice $3.001 dz and general socializing formed the major parts. Members donated 7 books to start the library. Jim Gerholdt, as first Newsletter Editor, used a typewriter to create a hard copy which was xeroxed by members at work.

By the end of the first year, there were 72 members, and MHS funds totaled $183.87

15 years ago: 1985

The MHS is 4 years old. Basic Membership costs $10. Fran Frisch is President

MHS meets at Rm 375, Science Oassroom Building, East Bank, U of M.

The MHS creates and hosts the first Midwestern Herpetological Seminar at the Beli Museum. 85 people attend. Cost is $13.00 for seminar and $13.00 for the Banquet at Como Zoo. MHS makes $555.35.

Other History FDA starts enforcing ban on

'under 4 inches ' turtle sales. Rodent Sale: Mice-$3.00 dz. Raffle and White Snake Sale are added as fundraisers. The first Occasional Paper is published and the newsletter is now sent to a printer but assembled by members at Twin Cities Reptiles.

By the end of 1985 there are 160 members (@ 60 people attend meetings), 59 animals adopted out, the First White Snake Sale makes $533.29 and MHS funds total $1,072.48

10 years ago: 1990

The MHS is 9 years old. Basic Membership costs $10. John Moriarty is President

MHS meets at Rm 335 Borlaug HaIL St Paul Campus U of M.

The MHS hosts the 6th Annual Midwest Herpetological Symposium at the Bell MU$eum. 184 people attend. Cost is $30.00 for seminar $20.00 for Banquet MHS makes $2,400.00 First donations from Midwest $150.00 to DNR. $150.00 to Bell Museum.

Other History DNR publishes Amphibian and

Snake Care pamphlets (MHS provides funds and advice.) Rodent Sale: Rats $2.00 each. MHS adopts Code of Ethics, Aims and Goals and Venomous Reptile Policy. Volunteer Awards are presented, (MHS Mug- 62 people earn volunteer hours) Start process of going Non-Profit

By the end of 1990 there are 180 members ( @ 120 attend meetings), 176 animals adopted out, White Snake Sale makes $544.50 and MHS funds total $3,137.36

5 years ago: 1995

The MHS is 14 years old. Basic Membership costs $15. Bill Moss is President

MHS . meets at Rm 335 Borlaug Hall, St Paul Campus U of M.

Other History Minnesota Amphibian & Reptile

Symposium (DNR) held at Bell Museum.

Rodent Sale: Mice $9.00 dz, Rats $12.00/6. Adopt-a-Highway program started. First MHS cable access show produced by Bill Moss & George Richard. A Dave Hoppe program includes frog deformities common in MIl. Conservation fund buys frog crossing signs for DNR. Volunteer hours total 3,419 for 108 members.

By the end of 1995 there are 327 members ( @ 132 attend meetiogs), 334 animals adopted out, White Snake Sale makes $1,465.50, and MHS funds total $4,521.25.

8

Last Year: 1999

The MHS is 18 years old. Basic Membership costs $15. Bill Moss is President

MHS meets at Rm 335 Borlaug Hall, 5t Paul Campus U of M.

Other History Minnesota Amphibian & Reptile

Symposium (DNR) held at Bell Museum

124 members give volunteer hours. $1,598.00 was given out in grants. MHS signs a 3-year contract for Renaissance Festival at Como Cottage.

By the end of 1999 there are 340 members ( @ 120 attend meetings), 284 Library books, over 500 animals adopted out, White Snake Sale makes $1,208.50, and MHS funds total $18,168.87.

This Year: 2000

The MHS is 19 years old. Basic Membership costs $15. Bill Moss is President

MHS meets at Rm 335 Bodaug Hall, St Paul Campus U of M.

Other History There are 392 members (@ 145

attend the March Annual Meeting), White Snake Sale makes $1,616.00. What happens next is up tu ~ the MHS members. Let's have a great year.

Happy Birthday MHS!

Events and numbers are from past minutes of the Board of Directors Meetings and MRS Newsletters.- ed.

For a more personal look at the history of the Minnesota Herpetological Society we are trying to create a memory book for our 2IJIh anniversary in 2001.

You can help by sending in stories about your memories concerning MHS events, people or information you've learned or shared.

Send items to Nancy Haig clothe MHS (Bell Museum) or Email nanchaig@citilink.com

MHS Nwsletter Volume 20 Number 5

M.H.S. BUSINESS

MRS Coming Events

June 2, 2000 MHS General Meeting -Sandra Borland- Axolotls and the Indiana University Axolotl Colony. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus, 7:00 PM.

July 7, 2000 MHS General Meeting John Hogston­Monitor Lizard: An overview of the Aranids of the World.

July 15,2000 MHS PICNIC, Locke Park more details later

Aug 4, 2000 MHS General Meeting - TBD

Sept 8, 2000 MHS General Meeting- Dr. Fred Jansen - Studies sex-determining mechanisms in turtles and other reptiles at Iowa State University

Oct 6, 2000 MHS General Meeting - Dr. Robert Powell -Adventures in the Caribbean: Herpetology on Tropical Islands

October 13-15, 2000 16th Midwest Herpetological Symposium, hosted by the Kansas City Herpetological Society

Nov 3, 2000 MHS General Meeting- Phil Tremper Breeding Rare Geckos

Hands-On(s)

June 3, 2000 -(Sat) - Scout Fair 2000 9am -5pm

Aug 2, 2000 - (Wed) Brooklyn Park Rec. Center Aug 9, 2000 -(Wed) 10-11:30

Contact Jan Larson 1-507-263-4391 Or Email jan.skunkhollow@juno.com for more

information on these events

English Spot Dutch

Jim's Rabbit Shack "Where Spots Are Tops"

JIM DALUGE 763.295.2818

8700 Jaber Ave. NE Monticello. MN 55362

9

Treasurer's Report of April 2000 Prepared by Marilyn Brooks Blasus

Beginning checkbook balance: Income:

Membership: Library Fines Raffle Rodent Sales Donations Adoption/ placement Small item sale

340.00 0.00

71.50 464.00

0.00 130.00

7.00

Total income:

Expense: Newsletter Misc. prt./post White pages Program Library Supplies Refreshments Rodent costs Misc (adopt) Bulk Mail permit Grants paid

529.00 .99

284.37 50.00

0.00 63.53 56.82

397.60 45.00

100.00 1,823.10

Total Expense: Cash increase/ (decrease)

Ending checkbook balance:

Unpaid Expenses Business cards 80.00

Total 80.00

Funds available

Placement of cash holdings

Total

Checking account (199.49) Savings account 14,000.00 Cash on Hand ____ ~5O=.00'"

13,850.51

JODI L. AHfRIIS Ground Gecko l'reak

African Fat- Tailed Gecko Leucistic Leopard Gecko 5 Other Morphs of Leopards Homonota Horrida

2,138.42

1,012.50

3.350.41 (2,337.91)

(199.49)

Proud Member M.H.S. 2946 Thomas Ave. N. G.G.A. I.G.S.

Mpls .. MN 55411 612·588·9329

MHS Newsletter Volume 20 Number 5

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Oassified ads are free to the membership. Dea.dline is the night of the general meeting to be induded in the next news~tter. Mail to: MtIS Editor, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Omrch St,SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455 l..o.<P mak>. 0.1.0~kma1e, 0..0.1" unsexed, cb'" captive bred. obo .. Or bestoffet,-+'" times run.(a.ds.arerunonIy3xunlessreq~ted toa>ntinue.)

For Sale:

Tibetan Frog-eyed Gecko: T.S. Roborowski, wc subadult in 1998, bred '99 & 00 $75. 0.0.3 Bolivian Prickly Gecko, cb '99 $25. each. 0.0.3 Patternless Leopard Gecko cb '98 $75. each or make offer. 0.0.2 Leopard Gecko cb '97 $30. each. 0.0.18 Viper Geck08 cb 2000 $25. each or (3 or more) $20. each. 20.0 Viper Gecko, cb 1999 $30. Each. Pixie Frog, small $25. Call Jodi L. Aherns (612) 58S-9329 +

1.1.0 Pure Jungle Carpet Pythons, CB 97/98 (Vandeventer/Lazik) $3OO/pr.; Argentine Boas, CB %/97 (Ronne/Bessette) $250/pr. These are all beautiful snakes but I don't want to have to move into my garage!!! Pairs may be split, trades considered. Pies available by email Mike Burpee 651-894-8722; mbreptiles@aolcom +++

1.0.0 Black Tegu 5 years old @ 3 ft Has been to many Hands-On(s) $150. To a good home and experienced herper. Call Kathy (612) 753-4509 +++

58 Gallon Reef Aquarium 175 watt Hamilton metal Halide canopy w /2 vho actinics ets protein skimmer, Eheim return pump. Call Derek (651) 638-1928 ++ +

Hatchling Leopard Tortoise babies (G. pardaIis babcocki) , Hatch Dec. '99 & Jan:oo. Well started and very active. $75. -$100. May consider chelonian trades Jake at (507) 433-3006 or herpIaw@rconnectcom +++

All glass custom terrarium/aquarium, water tight, 45"long, 23" wide, 20"high. No top. $100., All glass 30 gal aquarium w / screentop $50. Both in excellent condition. Can deliver to March MHS meeting. (320) 745-2602 after 6 pm. +++

Complete, uninterrupted set of Reptiles Magazine from premier issue (Oct 1993) through December 1998. Best Offer (320) 745-2602 +++

Corn Snake Breeding Project: I am scaling back, and the following com snakes are for sale: 2.2 snow corns, 1.3 ame\anistic corns, 1.1 "red okeetee" (greatly reduced black, brilliant red ground color), .1 okeetee with slight "zipper" pattern, all are young adults, 3-5 years old; all are proven breeders. The entire group is for sale $ 500.00. This is an excellent and inexpensive opportunity to get started in com snakes, or add to an existing breeding colony. Call Greg Kvanbek at (651) 388-{)305 or (612) 700 -9454 Will deliver to Twin Cities area. ++++

Frozen Rabbits - all sizes. Prices very reasonable- pinkies to adults. Jim Daluge (763) 295-2818

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Wanted:

AU the shed snake skins in the world. Needed for giveaways at educational programs contact Bob Duerr 541-0362

Information Request: Please send the following: 1. A complete inventory of all reptiles and amphibians living in your collection as of January 1. Include numbers of males, females or unknown sex. 2. A list of all species bred during the previous year. Bare minimum would be to mark the species bred and indicate if they laid eggs or gave live birth. If possible include more detailed notes of a paragraph or more. 3. List of all species, living or dead which you may believe may be record length. 4. Be sure to list your name, address and telephone number, fax as you want them listed. Please be legible. Anonymous submissions will be considered, try to at least list your name and state. 5. If you know of a person keeping reptiles and amphibians in captivity that has not responded please encourage them to do so. All collectors should respond. Send to Frank L. Slavens, PO Box 30744, Seattle, Washington, 98103, or Fax 206 546 2912

MHS Hats are still available by special order. They are white will a blue logo or khaki with a green logo. One size fits all, $8.00ppd or $10.00 if you want your name embroidered on the back. Contact Gordon Merck (612) 566-2001

Heather C Matson Gecko Breeder & Photographer

612.871.7334 8mll gecko@hklck-hole.col11

2438 Grar:d Ave #207 Minneapolis, Mlnn=t<l

55405

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

Classified Ads: All active members are aliowed a classified ad, run free of charge as space permits. Ads may be run (3) consecutive months, after which time they may be resubmitted. Corresponding members are allowed a complimentary business card advertisement monthly as space permits. Due to Federal restrictions on Non-profit mailing permits, we are not allowed to run ads for travel, credit or insurance agencies.

Display Ad Rates: Ad Size per Month t,4 page $10.00 th page $20.00

full page $4Q.00 Business card advertisements may be purchased at $5.00 per ad, per month.

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

New " Renewal Membershi #

MHS Rodent Sales

Mice Pinkies $7.00 dozen Fuzzies $7.00 dozen Hoppers $8.00 dozen Adults $10.00 dozen

Rats Sm. Pups $12.00 dz. LgPups $18.00 dz. Juvn Rats. $24.00 dz. Adults $15.00 six

$30.00 dz.

For pick up at monthly meetings only. Orders must be placed at least one week in advance of date of meeting at which the frozen rodents are to be delivered. Place orders with Tina (Rat Girl) Cisewski at (612) 856-2865.

All proceeds go toward the operating costs of the society. The MHS is a completely volunteer run, non-profit organization.

Membershi lication

T e Check #

Name ________________________________________________________________________ __

Addross __________________________________________________________________________ __

City ______________________ State Zip _______ _

Phone ______________________ ,emall List in MHS Directory? __ Yes ___ No

Herp related interests __________________________________________________________________ _

Active Memberships: ____ Sustaining ($60/yr) __ Contributing ($30/yr) _---'Basic ($15/yr)

Corresponding Memberships: __ Gold Commercial ($100/yr 2 full pg. ads) __ Bronze Commercial ($50/yr 2 1/4pg ads)

_____ Silver CommerCial ($75/yr 2112 pg. ads) _____ Basic CommerCial ($25/yr 2 Bus cards)

Required check info Drivers L1c # State DOB ________ _ Please enclose the proper payment with your application. MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY. Membership Is for 12 months from the date of approval, a receipt will be sent only upon request. MAIL TO: Minnesota Herpetological Society, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church st. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455. Please allow 6 - 8 weeks for processing.

UNIV1!RSlTV OF MINNESOTA- ST. PAUL CAMPtIS

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MINNESOTA HERPEfOLOGICAL SOCIETY BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREIT SE MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

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Next Meeting:

June 2, 2000

Rm. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M St. Paul Campus

Start time: 7:00 p.m.

MHS Voicemail: (612) 624 - 7065

Internet: http://www.onrampinc.net/mhs/

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Non-Profit Rate U.S. Postage

PAID Mpls.MN

Permit No. 2275

POSTMASTER: DATED MATERIAL