Breeding
Reptile Hobbyists – Helping or Hindering Reptile and Amphibian Conservation?
Sep 23rd
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here.While over-collection and poorly-prepared pet keepers have certainly led to declines in wild populations of some species, private hobbyists have also contributed immensely to the conservation of amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles (as well as fishes, birds and mammals). This is especially true of those animals which zoos lack the interest or space to maintain…often the very creatures most favored by private keepers.
The Asian Turtle Crisis
A lack of funds and space in zoos led the establishment of the Turtle Survival Alliance, the largest turtle rescue effort ever launched. The Alliance was organized in response to unprecedented declines in freshwater turtle populations throughout Asia – a phenomenon that has come to be known as the Asian Turtle Crisis.
Soon after the group was formed, I traveled to Floridain the company of private and professional turtle enthusiasts to help rehabilitate and house nearly 10,000 turtles confiscated in China; many of the private sector people I met there now participate in rehabilitation and breeding initiatives in cooperation with zoos and museums. More >
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Loading ...Reticulated Python Natural History – a Giant Snake in Wild and Urban Habitats
Sep 16th
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The massive Reticulated Python, Broghammerus (formerly Python) reticulatus is one of the world’s best known snakes, and always the main attraction at zoo reptile houses. It is also widely bred in private collections, although such is ill-advised given the potential dangers inherent in keeping such a formidable beast (even after decades in captivity, most retain their irascible temperament). Today I’d like to explore a lesser known side of this impressive snake – its habits in nature, and its amazing ability to thrive even in large, crowded cities.
Description
The Reticulated Python, or “Retic” as it is known to herp enthusiasts, vies with the Green Anaconda for title of world’s longest snake (an Anaconda would be twice as heavy as a Retic of the same length, however). Stories abound as to its potential size, but the longest reliable measurement appears to be 32 feet, 9 inches; individuals longer than 23 feet are exceedingly rare. More >
(No Ratings Yet) Loading ...Breeding the Malayan Leaf Frog (Long-Nosed or Bornean Horned Frog)
Sep 6th
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The wonderfully bizarre Malayan Leaf Frog, Megophrys nasuta, has always been a somewhat difficult species to keep. However, we now have a better understanding of its needs, and captive breeding is becoming more regular. As it turns out, the Malayan Leaf Frog’s reproductive behavior is as unusual as its appearance.
Natural History
Malayan Leaf Frogs range from southern Thailand through the Malayan Peninsula, Indonesia and Sumatra to Borneo. Despite the large range, uncanny camouflage and a preference for forested habitats renders them difficult to find. Little is known of their status and conservation needs.
Malayan Leaf Frogs are classified in the family Megophryidae, a group of 150+ largely nocturnal, leaf-mimicking species. Most prefer walking to hopping, and many are largely unstudied. More >
(-1 rating, 1 votes) Loading ...Breeding the African Clawed Frog
Aug 9th
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis, is an extremely popular pet and lab animal. It is also one of the few amphibians that will sometimes reproduce “spontaneously” (that is, without being induced by artificial “rain storms” and other such tactics) in captivity. Yet there is precious little available concerning how to breed this frog, or what to do if one is suddenly presented with eggs.
Natural History
Unlike most amphibians, African Clawed Frogs may reproduce at any time of the year. This adaptation allows them to take advantage of favorable conditions whenever they occur, and is responsible for their ability to thrive as an introduced species in a great many countries. More >
(No Ratings Yet) Loading ...Invasive Species News – African Rock Pythons may be Breeding in Florida
Aug 2nd
Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. A recent article in the journal IRCF Reptiles and Amphibians (V17, 1) provides evidence that the African Rock Python (Northern African Python, Python sebae), may have established a breeding population in southern Florida. The huge constrictors are adapted to take small antelopes and other large animals, and have been killed and consumed people in their native habitat.
Florida’s Introduced Constrictors
At least 45 species of non-native reptiles and amphibians have established breeding populations in Florida; many others have been observed but are not known to be reproducing. Among these are 2 of the world’s largest snakes, the Burmese Python and the Boa Constrictor. Other large constrictors, including the Green Anaconda, Yellow Anaconda and White-Lipped Python, have been found at large in Florida. More >
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