A Mysterious Giant

The False Gharial, which may exceed 16 feet in length, is the least-studied of the large Crocodilians, and among the rarest.  It has been bred in captivity only 3 times in the last 60 years (once at the Bronx Zoo, prior to my tenure) and few US zoos exhibit them today; 28 reside in European zoos, while South America is home to 1 specimen.

A secretive nature keeps the False Gharial shrouded in mystery.  The few field studies that have been carried out (please see below) indicate that it has been exterminated from much of its range. 

My Introduction to the False Gharial

During my years with the Bronx Zoo, I was lucky enough to have 4 adult False Gharials under my care, including the only proven breeders in the Western Hemisphere.  They were huge beasts, the largest of which topped 600 pounds in weight.  Each had been in the collection for 20-30 years when I began working with them.  I clearly recall seeing these same animals when visiting the zoo as a teenager, but their increased size did not fully register until I dug out some old food cards.  Upon arrival at the zoo, they were feeding upon goldfish…they now downed whole chickens without effort, and were capable of taking much larger meals!  

I was especially struck by the False Gharials’ jaws.  I had previously worked with a related species, the Indian Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus).  The Indian Gharial feeds primarily upon fish that are captured with uniquely-long and slender jaws.  The False Gharial’s jaws are also elongated, but they are in no way slender!  Up close, the massive bones and muscles that anchor these powerful weapons are readily apparent.  It was easy to imagine that, as I had read in field reports, wild False Gharials regularly dined on Proboscis Monkeys and other sizable mammals.

Mom Salvages my Honor…perhaps

The difference between False Gharial and Indian Gharial jaws was brought home to me when I first tried to urge a False Gharial out of my way while servicing its exhibit.  With Indian Gharials, there was a chance that the jaw might be damaged if an animal struck the “croc pole” (a thick pole used to nudge crocs and keep them at a safe distance); the first time a male False Gharial hit my pole it splintered and flew out of my hands.  He and his mate charged and, now unarmed, I fled out the exhibit service door.  

While in retreat I noticed my mother, a long-term Bronx Zoo volunteer, pointing me out to a group of school children.  Fearing I had worried her (again!), I came out from behind the exhibit.  I found my mom, ever-confident in my abilities, explaining to the children that experience and training had enabled me to know just how to react in this dangerous situation.  Not wishing to disillusion her or her wide-eyed audience, I did not point out that adrenaline and common sense were largely responsible for my inglorious exit!

False Gharials vs. Cuban Crocodiles

False Gharials drew me into an even more dangerous incident some years later.  Seven Cuban Crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) broke through a wall and invaded an exhibit housing a pair of False Gharials.  I and two co-workers waded in and tried to separate the enraged combatants while also protecting one another from attack.  In the ensuing two hour battle, we escaped injury and were able to separate the animals.  Many bore bite wounds, but crocs have amazing immune systems, and all healed without further complications.

Transporting Crocodiles

I’ve helped to grab, tie and transport adult False Gharials on four occasions, and each experience confirmed my belief that these heavily-armored creatures are among the world’s most physically impressive reptiles.  I’ve “wrestled” with other large crocs in the course of my work (please see Marsh Crocodile photo), but none battled as hard or seemed as “indestructible” as did False Gharials. 

Sadly, I learned that they too have weaknesses.  In time, zoos began experimenting with sedatives as a means of rendering crocodile relocations less dangerous for both keeper and kept.  Unfortunately, little was known about the effects of medications designed primarily for mammals, and we lost two adult False Gharials to complications arising from the use of Ketamine.

Natural History

Although some ambitious field studies have been undertaken (please see “Further Reading”, below), we know surprisingly little of the False Gharial’s life in the wild.  Unlike most large crocodilians, it is quite secretive, and dwells in habitats that are difficult to survey.

Taxonomy

The False Gharial is placed in the Order Crocodylia (25 species) and Family Crocodylidae (16 species).  Recent evidence of its relationship to the Indian Gharial may lead to a reclassification in the Family Gavialidae.

Range

Once found throughout much of Southeast Asia, the False Gharial is now extinct in Thailand, Vietnam and Sulawesi.  Today it survives only on the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra and Kalimantan. In the early 2000’s, a remnant population was discovered in western Java.  Additional surveys are needed (please check here http://tomistoma.org/pa/ for survey updates).

Habitat

The False Gharial inhabits heavily-vegetated peat swamps and slow-moving “black water” rivers.  There is evidence that it occasionally enters the tidal portions of certain rivers. 

Diet

The long, slender jaws of young False Gharials indicate that they are fish specialists.  The jaws thicken with age, allowing adults to take monkeys, small deer, birds, snakes, turtles and other creatures. 

Reproduction

Females scrape together a mound of dead vegetation in which to deposit their 20-30 large eggs, but appear not to guard the nest or young.  Eggs are likely lost to wild pigs, Water Monitors and other predators.

Conservation

The False Gharial is extinct in several countries and is threatened elsewhere by dam building, gold mining, incidental capture in fishing nets, and the over-harvesting of fish.  Fewer than 2,500 adults are believed to remain, but accurate surveys are lacking.  Fortunately, several populations are located within reserves that also shelter Orangutans and other creatures better known to the public.

The only predator of larger False Gharials appears to be the Salt Water Crocodile, Crocodylus porosus.

The False Gharial is classified as “Endangered” by the IUCN and is listed on Appendix I of CITES. 

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Fishing for Alligators in NYC’s Sewers

Field Report: False Gharials in Kalimantan

False Gharial Interest Group

One Ton Crocodile Captured

False Gharial in enclosure image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by kennyannydenny

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Working with the False Gharial – One of the World’s Largest Crocodiles

The post Working with the False Gharial – One of the World’s Largest Crocodiles appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Unprecedented Agreement May Help 757 Species

Following a slew of lawsuits by the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD), the Federal government has agreed to speedily consider protecting an additional 757 native species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  The CDB employs an attorney who deals solely with amphibians and reptiles, and the agreement is said to be “airtight” and legally enforceable. 

This agreement is an important step, as the ESA is our most powerful wildlife law.  Indeed, ESA listings have proven vital to the continued survival of many species.  For example, a recent CBD study of 110 ESA-protected species showed that 90% of them were recovering “on time”, according to the goals set at the original listing…not bad, considering what is happening to rhinos and other “protected” species elsewhere!

Consider the American Crocodile.  At its ESA listing in 1975, only 10-20 breeding females, all in Florida Bay, remained in the USA. I saw some of these in the early 1980’s, on the grounds of an electric company, but they were notably absent from all nearby habitat. Today, the population numbers over 2,000, and they can again be seen in Biscayne Bay, Key Largo and elsewhere. In fact, the government recently advertised for “crocodile re-location agents”, as they are showing up in backyard canals!

Included among the 757 species fast-tracked for ESA consideration are the Ozark Hellbender, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Boreal Toad and 20 freshwater turtle species. The CBD has also filed a 300 page report seeking some form of protection for 8 snakes, 24 salamanders, 3 toads, 4 frogs, 6 turtles and 10 lizards. 

Other Herp Success Stories

Habitat Protection

A review of the CBD annual report and other sources revealed some pleasant surprises.  In California, 99,000 acres have been protected as habitat for the endangered Arroyo Toad and 47,000 acres have been set aside for the California Tiger Salamander.

Pesticide Use

Atrazine, a pesticide that has been shown to cause hormonal changes in frogs (i.e. the development of ovaries in males – something I observed via autopsy years ago), is in the CBD’s crosshairs.  The 43,000 comments submitted to the Federal government by CBD researchers and others should go a long way in resolving this serious threat to amphibian survival. 

Rattlesnake Roundups

Under pressure from several environmental groups, one ofGeorgia’s two remaining “rattlesnake roundups” has been transformed into a kill-free event.  Other snake-related efforts include a posted reward for sightings of the South Florida Rainbow Snake, which the CBD believes may have been prematurely declared extinct (I’ll post sighting reports, hopefully in the near future). 

Volunteer Efforts

By submitting photos and GPS info through the Global Amphibian Blitz, citizen-scientists are helping herpetologists track rare and common species both here and abroad. 

Pending Lawsuits

Unfortunately, the mere fact of Federal protection may be insufficient to ensure a species’ survival. Often, hands-on recovery efforts are essential, and in some cases human-generated threats continue despite the law.   

In 2011, the CBD sued the Federal government on behalf of several protected amphibians. Cited in the lawsuits were failures to produce recovery plans for the California Tiger Salamander and the Yellow-Legged Frog. Efforts to dredge canals near the last remaining breeding pond of the Mississippi Gopher Frog were also attacked in court. 

Continuing Threats to US Herps

A number of rare native amphibians remain without protection (some may now be under consideration, please see above).  Among these are many unique endemics, including the Arizona Treefrog, Colorado Spotted Frog, Black Warrior Mudpuppy and Austin Blind Salamander. Please see this article for further information.

Tiger Salamander larvae are still used (live!) as fishing bait in some states. In addition to decimating populations, the bait trade has been implicated in the spread of two deadly amphibian diseases.  Please see this article for details.

The trade in frog legs kills billions of animals annually, both here and abroad, and imported legs and frogs destined have been shown to harbor Chytrid fungus and other pathogens. Please see this article for further info and links to sites where you can take action.

Global Concerns: IUCN Red List Update

The IUCN has just released a comprehensive report on the status of animals and ecosystems worldwide (please see video below). Of the 63,837 species that have been accessed, 19,817, including 41% of the world’s amphibians, are threatened with extinction; a great many others will likely move into that category soon.

Ten percent of Asia’s endemic snakes, and 43% of all Asian snakes, are headed towards extinction. One recent study raises the possibility that snakes may be undergoing a global decline similar in scale to that faced by amphibians. Please see this article for further information.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

IUCN Video of Threatened Species

Center for Biological Diversity Annual Report

Freshwater Turtle Conservation in the USA

CBD Report: Status of 110 Protected Species

Rainbow Snake in Georgia  image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Alan Garrett

Hyla eximia  image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Vivipro

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update

The post Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in the USA – 2012 Update appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Note: I’d enjoy hearing about your own unforgettable (and “wish you could forget”!) herping experiences. Whether your tales involve garter snakes in the backyard or crocodile monitors in New Guinea, please write in so that I can share them with other readers, thanks.

Turtle Enthusiasts Gather at SUNY Purchase

In July of 1993, I attended an amazing, week-long international conference held in Westchester County, NY – The Conservation, Restoration and Management of Tortoises and Turtles. Hosted by the dedicated folks at the NY Turtle and Tortoise Society, this gathering of leading professionals and serious hobbyists has, in my experience, yet to be matched. The 500-page conference proceedings are an invaluable resource, and I highly recommend them to anyone with more than a passing interest in turtles and tortoises. You can order the proceedings, for the unbelievable price of $20, here.

Romulus Whitaker

Romulus Whitaker, one of the world’s foremost herpetologists, was in attendance as a speaker. Although most often associated with his work in India, Mr. Whitaker actually grew up in NYC; I had long been in awe of the accomplishments of my fellow New Yorker. At the time, I was a reptile keeper at the Bronx Zoo, working with Indian Gharials that had hatched at the Madras Crocodile Bank, founded by Mr. Whitaker. Curiously, the Gharials went off feed for 5 months each year, despite being kept warm, yet remained active and lost little weight.

I introduced myself to Mr. Whitaker, and right away found that he lived up to his reputation as a pleasant soul, always willing to share his expertise. We spoke often over the next few days, and I learned a great deal about Gharials, Painted Terrapins, Giant River Turtles, Narrow-Headed Softshells and other South Asian reptiles that I cared for (the Gharials, I discovered, were responding to an internal “clock” that informed them it was winter in their native land).

Snake Hunting with a Legend

Towards the end of the conference, Mr. Whitaker asked if I might take him to a spot where he could see some native NY snakes…those that first inspired his interest as a child. It happened that we were in the middle of a hot, dry spell at the time and, what’s more, I wasn’t very familiar with the surrounding area. So there I was, about to go snake hunting with Romulus Whitaker at a time when I’d be lucky to find a Brown Snake!

I made some frantic calls to local contacts and learned that Ward Pound Ridge Reservation would be my best option. I had previously been involved in salamander research there, and was relieved to recall that this largest of Westchester’s preserved areas was something of a herp haven, despite being so close to NYC.

All herpers (or birders, or naturalists of any sort) soon learn that animals rarely if ever show up when you wish, or do what “is expected of them”. But, as is true with of all with a passion for reptiles, Mr. Whitaker showed almost child-like excitement at the prospect of finding even the commonest of snakes. Buoyed by his enthusiasm, I resolved to do my best.

Was I in for a surprise! In quick succession, we found Black Ratsnakes, Black Racers, Eastern Garter Snakes, Northern Watersnakes, Brown Snakes and Northern Red-Bellied Snakes; the most productive near-city trip of my life. Even more surprising, given that we were in a dry spell in mid-July, was the discovery of Dusky, Red-Backed and Slimy Salamanders, and Eastern Spotted Newts. A number of interesting spiders rounded out the day. (Note: all animals were released).

Wonderful Encounters, Near and Far

I’m rarely superstitious, but I believe that the man was truly charmed! It was such a pleasure to see him in action…despite being at the pinnacle of his profession, he was as thrilled to be in the field as my 4-year-old nephew is today. I knew of Mr. Whitaker’s reputation for speed and agility, but was still surprised at how good he was at catching even sun-warmed Black Racers. He leapt headlong into thick cover in his pursuits, and rarely came up empty handed. Although younger, in very good shape, and well-experienced, I was not at all in his class…I’m sure the same remains true today!

What a day, and what a conference. Soon after, Mr. Whitaker departed to begin work with nesting King Cobras in India, and I was off to tag Green Anacondas in Venezuela (please see articles below). But, looking back, I see that we enjoyed our time at Ward Pound Ridge just as much as those “exotic” adventures. We herpers are indeed a lucky bunch…the world, near and far, holds so much of interest for us. I look forward to hearing about your own trips and observations.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: Rom Whitaker on conservation

My Close Call with a King Cobra

Tagging Anacondas in Venezuela

Local herp societies may offer field trips and much more. The NY Turtle and Tortoise Society is a perfect example.

King Cobra Nesting Research

Snakes in NYC

Gharial and Turtle photo By Adam Jones Adam63 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
King Cobra Photo By Enygmatic-Halycon (http://www.flickr.com/photos/enygmatic/1980455755/) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Black Racer photo by Sfullenwider (Own work) [GFDL (www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Snake Hunting with Romulus Whitaker – Learning from the Master

The post Snake Hunting with Romulus Whitaker – Learning from the Master appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Awe-Inspiring Crocs

Large Saltwater Crocodiles, or “Salties”, awe neophyte and veteran herpetologists equally when viewed up close. There is simply no way to prepare oneself for the grandeur of these other-worldly beasts. I had worked with hundreds of large crocs before meeting my first true monster – a 17-foot-long, 1,700 pound brute christened “Gomek” (please see article below). Accompanied by his keeper, I edged to within a few feet of the usually calm, nutria-eating giant, and I still lack the words to properly describe the experience.

Well, the individual just captured in the Philippines out-measures Gomek by quite a bit…please see the video below. He frequented the outskirts of a farming town in Bunawan Township, 515 miles southeast of Manila. Circumstances led residents to believe that the animal, whom they have named “Lolong”, may have been responsible for killing several people; domestic water buffaloes were also on his menu.

Catching a Legend

The giant destroyed 4 traps and eluded capture for 3 weeks; a stronger, re-built trap finally snared him. After several escapes from ropes that sought to restrain him (not an easy task, even with much smaller animals, I can assure you!) Lolong was pulled from the water…a feat that took the efforts of 90-100 people!

The new heavyweight contender is currently listed as being 21 feet long and weighing an amazing 2,370 pounds. The Mary River individual mentioned earlier measured at least 21 feet long (there is some uncertainty). I’m anxious to hear if 21 feet is a rough measurement…if so, we may have a new record.

Unfortunately, giant crocodiles and people do not mix, so this fellow cannot be released. An exhibit in a local ecotourism park is expected to be his new home.

Natural History

Saltwater Crocs occupy an enormous range that stretches from northern India southeast through China and Thailand to Australia. Ocean journeys of over 600 miles have been documented, and they sometimes wind up well beyond their normal haunts (i.e. Japan); some particularly seaworthy specimens even sport barnacles!

An Extinct Giant

Salties are not the largest crocs to have ever lived. Deinosuchus, a 29-foot-long crocodile that once roamed Florida, preyed upon dinosaurs! Please see this article.

Gomek’s Story

Gomek was captured on New Guinea’s Fly River and eventually found a home with Arthur Jones. Mr. Jones, best known for inventing Nautalis weight-lifting equipment, was quite the animal fancier. At one point he had scores of adult crocs and a herd of 20+ African Elephants on his land in Florida. Years in the zoo field and friendship with a protégé of his have favored me with a few peeks into his most unique life…but those are stories for another time. For now, please check out the Gomek article below.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting animal stories.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. Thanks, until next time, Frank Indiviglio.

Further Reading

Saltwater Crocodile Natural History

Photos and a video of the giant captured this month here

My Visit with Gomek World’s Largest Captive Croc

Check out this video of a giant croc feeding -
feeding a giant croc

Crocodile images referenced from Wikipedia.

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Recently Captured One Ton Crocodile may be the Largest Reptile Ever Recorded

The post Recently Captured One Ton Crocodile may be the Largest Reptile Ever Recorded appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Snakes of NY State

New York State is home to 17-18 species of snakes, most of which once dwelled within NYC limits. Three of these – the Copperhead, Timber Rattlesnake and Eastern Massasauga – are venomous. 

Snake diversity increases when you travel just a bit north or east of NYC.  Fifteen years ago I had the amazing good fortune to search for snakes with legendary herpetologist Rhom Whittaker (who, although based in India, is a former New Yorker).  We found 6 snake and 4 salamander species in a single day at Westchester’s Ward Pound Ridge Park!

The Ultimate Urban Snake

The only species that one might “almost reliably” expect to find within the city is the DeKay’s Snake (or Northern Brown Snake, as it is now more commonly known).  This secretive little serpent was my first wild snake sighting – but, at age 5, I was not quick enough to catch it.  However, I’ve taught my 3-year-old cousin better, and just last week he made his first capture (please see photo; please note that all NYS herps are now protected, and may not be collected).

As a child, I found Brown Snakes to be quite common in small, overgrown lots in a few Bronx neighborhoods, where they were easier to find than in the more “snake-friendly” environs of Van Courtlandt Park.  While a student at the Bronx High School of Science, I surprised a well-known herpetologist who, on a visit there, overheard me talking about collecting snakes near my home.  He later visited the dead-end street site I mentioned, and published a note about it in a local herp society newsletter.  Each year I still take in and release a few Brown Snakes that are uncovered by folks in NYC, so it seems they are here to stay.

Urban Snake Habitats

It’s difficult to provide guidelines for urban snake viewing.  Cities provide unique opportunities and challenges to snakes and snake hunters, and so what works in the countryside often has little bearing in the city. 

For example, Black Racers and Smooth Green Snakes have long been absent from NYC’s largest stretches of woodland (i.e. Van Cortland Park).  However, they managed to hold on for a time in abandoned lots in the South Bronx.  Blighted by fires in the 1970’s, these lots and the ruined buildings on them provided me with many non-herp surprises as well, such as Barn Owl nests and roosting Little Brown Bats.  However, such areas were and still are very dangerous places (due to human, not reptile-related threats) and should be avoided.

Given the unique nature of urban snake habitats, I’ll describe some of the places I’ve found various species, rather than attempt a review of likely sites.  As anywhere else, large undisturbed areas are always worth a look.  NYC host a surprising number of such places, including Van Cortlandt Park, the further reaches of Central Park, Staten Island’s Greenbelt and many more.  As a child, my favorite collecting sites for herps of all kinds were the grounds of the Bronx Zoo and the NY Botanical Gardens. With the exception of the highly-specialized Eastern Hognose Snake, any of the species mentioned here may be encountered in such habitats.

Regular Residents

Eastern Garter, Northern Red-Bellied and Northern Ring-Necked Snakes can turn up anywhere, even on unused lots in Manhattan, but are nowhere common.

Eastern Milk Snakes

When I first began working at the Bronx Zoo, I was astonished to learn that Eastern Milk Snakes could still be found along one stretch of Pelham Parkway.  The presence of a horse stable and a private mouse breeder (this a unique story in itself!) seemed to assist the snakes in their battle to survive alongside millions of people and 24/7 traffic.  In fact, some of the largest specimens I know of came from this site.  Sadly, all has now changed for the worst, but one never knows where the next surprise population will emerge.

Copperheads

Until recently, Copperheads dwelled right beneath the George Washington Bridge, on the NJ side.  I haunted the grounds of the Cloister’s Museum, on the NY side of the river, where they were also found in days past.  I was rewarded with a Ring-Necked Snake and plenty of Browns, as well as Red-Backed Salamanders – venomous snakes were never on my “must catch list” anyway!

Northern Water Snakes

Recently I was happy to observe Northern Water Snakes on the grounds of the NY Botanical Gardens.  Some years ago I re-introduced this species to the grounds of the Bronx Zoo, and they are now breeding there, but are uncommon.  Unfortunately, these feisty beasts seem extirpated from the rest of the city, with the possible exception of Staten Island. 

Hognose Snakes

Ten or so years ago I was involved in a herp reintroduction program based in Gateway National Park, along Jamaica Bay.  A huge population of Fowler’s Toads suited the area for Eastern Hognose Snakes, and the species did surprisingly well there.  These unique specialists are to be found nowhere else in the city.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments here…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Please see my article on what might be the oddest urban herp experience – Hunting Alligators in NYC’s Sewers.

Urban Amphibians: Axolotls Found in Mexico City Park  

Snakes of NY: Photos and Information  

Snakes in Indian Cities  

Milksnake image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Tracy

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Urban Herping – Finding Snakes in New York City

The post Urban Herping – Finding Snakes in New York City appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Cuban Treefrog, Osteopilus septentrionalis

Cuban Treefrogs are large as treefrogs go, and will tackle anything that might (or might not!) fit into their cavernous jaws.  I released several in a greenhouse at the Bronx Zoo, and was once startled to find one swallowing a Green Anole that exceeded itself in length.  But an observation made recently in Florida put my own to shame.

Cuban Treefrogs, native to Cuba, the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, are well established in Florida.  In Jupiter, Florida, a 2.4 inch-long Cuban Treefrog was found (on a sidewalk, no less!) with a Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus) measuring over 7 inches in length protruding from it’s mouth.  The frog was unable to completely swallow the snake, but held onto it for 40 minutes, after which the observer took a photo and departed.

Spectacled Caiman, Caiman crocodylus

Spectacled Caiman have been recorded in 7 US states but are breeding only in Florida.  Southeast Asia’s Walking Catfish (Clarius batrachus) has been established in Florida since the 1960’s, when a number apparently “walked” away from fish dealers there.  While visiting a turtle breeder in the state several years ago, I was astonished to see scores of Walking Catfishes surface for the trout chow he tossed into his outdoor turtle ponds.  They are most interesting, but have played havoc with South Florida’s aquatic ecosystems.

But they have enemies…a Spectacled Caiman that appeared ill was collected in the Everglades National Park.  It died soon after, and upon autopsy an adult Walking Catfish was found lodged in its throat.  The feisty beast had flared both of its sharp pectoral fins, and each had pierced the Caiman’s esophagus.  Based on my observations of many types of catfishes (the group is a great favorite of mine), I can imagine that similar fates have befallen a number of other species.

In reading some related articles I learned that catfish-related deaths have been reported in quite large animals.  In Puerto Rico, at least 20 Brown Pelicans have been killed by non-native Sailfin Catfishes.

Further Reading

Natural History of Spectacled Caimans in Florida

Natural History of Cuban Treefrogs in Florida

Please write in with your questions and comments. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

 
Spectacled Caiman image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Curtis Clark

Post from: That Reptile Blog


Herpetological Field Reports – Non-Native Predators and Prey in Florida

The post Herpetological Field Reports – Non-Native Predators and Prey in Florida appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Natural History

Marsh Crocodiles are aptly named – despite being powerful swimmers, they favor the calm, plant-choked waters of swamps and marshes over swift-moving rivers (the species name, “palustris”, is a reference to their habitat).

Their range extends from Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan through India and Sri Lanka. 

A Surprise

A single population of Muggars holds on in a country not known for its crocodiles, Iran.  The Iranian Muggars live in the southeastern part of the country, which is the species western-most limit.  The most recent survey of this group documented 150 individuals, but estimates put the total population at 300 or so.

Dammed river sections and village ponds account for an important part of this population’s habitat – one large reservoir is even protected as a breeding site.  Muggars spend periods of cold and hot weather in long, self-dug burrows, and fishes form the bulk of their diet.  Water birds, snakes and other animals are taken opportunistically.

Fortunately, Muggars are not hunted in Iran and are reportedly viewed as culturally important animals.  They are protected as an endangered species and a national management plan, containing research, educational, captive breeding and ecotourism components, is in place.

Muggars at the Zoo – A Vexing Problem

While working at the Bronx Zoo, I cared for a group of these most fascinating reptiles but unfortunately the exhibit was not conducive to breeding.

Sadly, a number of visitors tossed coins into the crocodiles’ open mouths (crocodiles cool off by lying with their jaws open, in order to expose the blood vessel-laden tongue to the air) and over the years the animals were slowly poisoned by zinc and other metals as the coins were digested.  We lost several animals, but others recovered and were re-located to zoos with covered exhibits (or better-behaved visitors!).

Further Reading

IUCN Report on Marsh Crocodile populations, natural history and conservation recommendations.

Check out the size of the Marsh Crocodiles in this video – easy to see why reintroductions must be carefully planned so that crocs and people do not meet up!

Please write in with your questions and comments. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

 
Basking Muggars image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Kminoj
Marsh Crocodile image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Hericks

Post from: That Reptile Blog


The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 2

The post The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 2 appeared first on That Reptile Blog.

Threats

Marsh Crocodiles, also known as Muggars, are equipped with immensely broad snouts (the croc world’s widest) and may reach 16 feet in length.  Their large size and propensity to colonize canals and other man-made water bodies renders them a threat to people in some areas. Attacks are not unknown – this, along with a fondness for livestock and commercially important fish, has doomed several populations to extinction. 

The IUCN classifies the species as “Vulnerable”.  Fortunately, Muggars are farmed in some areas; this has lessened pressure on wild stock from skin traders.  The population in Iran, which I’ll discuss in Part 2 of this article, is not disturbed and seems to be doing quite well.

Working with Muggars

I worked with a group of Muggars at the Bronx Zoo for quite some time.  Like all crocs, they were amazingly aware of their surroundings and quick to respond to changes in their daily routine.  If I followed the same procedure each day when working in their exhibit, the Muggars would predict my movements and stay out of my way.  Two people entering the exhibit, however, meant trouble (they seemed to recall being restrained for vet exams) – and, as you can see from the accompanying photo, they were not shy abut charging in response.

I do not recommend keeping Crocodilians of any species as pets – but if you train as a professional zookeeper or field researcher there will be many exciting opportunities in store for you.  Almost all species, from the small (by croc standards) Dwarf Caiman to the massive Salt Water Crocodile, are in deep trouble, and many zoos are expanding their breeding efforts – please see the photo of I and co-workers moving a highly endangered Indian Gharial for a sample of what may await you.

In Part 2 of this article we’ll take a look at the status of a unique population that thrives in Iran.  Please write in with your questions and comments. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Please see this website for an interesting collection of Muggar news stories and research notes.

My visit with Gomek, the largest croc in captivity.

Video of a wild Marsh Crocodile, Sloth Bears and other creatures.

 
Marsh Crocodile Basking image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Karunakar Rayker

Post from: That Reptile Blog


The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 1

The post The Muggar or Marsh Crocodile – Encounters in Captivity and the Wild – Part 1 appeared first on That Reptile Blog.