That Reptile Blog – Reptile, Amphibian and Exotic Pet Care and Information

I’ve recently posted information concerning a petition that seeks Endangered Species Act protection for 53 US herps.  Many readers applauded the news, but some were concerned about potential limitations on their ability to keep protected species.  As they correctly pointed out, responsible pet owners have made important contributions to the conservation of many species (please see article below).  In the course of my work as a zoologist, I’ve often dealt with federal, state and international permits, and continue to assist zoos with related issues.  Today I’d like to explain a bit more about this proposal, which was championed by the Center for Biological Diversity, and how it may impact target species in the wild and captivity.

The ESA: Pros and Cons for Herp Keepers

Although federal red tape complicates life for private herp owners, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) remains our nation’s most powerful conservation tool.  A recent study revealed that the ESA is 99% effective in preventing extinctions…once a species is listed, its survival is almost guaranteed.  Benefits to such species extend beyond permit requirements – habitat protection, research funds, compilation of recovery plans and other possibilities arise.  This post lists frequently asked questions concerning the ESA. Read More »

While working at the Bronx Zoo some years ago, I was delighted to receive a surprise shipment of New Guinea Snake Lizards (Lialis jicari).  Also known as the Long Headed Scaly-foot or Flap-Footed Lizard, it and the related Burton’s Snake Lizard (Lialis bertoni) have long fascinated herpetologists and hobbyists alike.  As you’ll see below, their similarity to snakes goes way beyond a limbless body; indeed, many consider the Snake Lizards to be an example of convergent evolution (unrelated species evolving similar characteristics).  Today I’d like to summarize my experiences and some of what is known about these amazing, little-studied creatures.

Classification

The 2 species mentioned above are the sole members of the genus Lialis. They are classified in the family Pygopodidae, along with approximately 38 other legless relatives. Their distribution is limited to Australia, New Guinea, and some nearby islands.

Snake Lizards have been described by one taxonomist as “legless geckos”, and appear most closely related to that group.  Actually, Snake Lizards do sport remnants of their rear legs, which appear as small skin flaps (hence the name “Flap-Footed Lizard”).  Read More »

The global extinction crisis faced by amphibians has been much in the news in recent years, as have threats to sea turtles, Madagascar’s tortoises, Asia’s freshwater turtles and other long-suffering groups.  In the USA, a number of reptile and amphibian species are also in dire straits despite, in some cases, federal protection.  I hope this article inspires both hope and action in my many conservation-minded readers.

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! Read More »

Captive insect-eating reptiles and amphibians (and perhaps invertebrates) are often plagued by nutritional deficiencies. A highly-varied diet is a great way to ensure adequate nutrition, but most keepers have access to only a few feeder-insect species; gut-loading (providing nutritious diets to feeders) is helpful, but detailed studies are lacking. While touring several Japanese zoos a few years ago, I was intrigued by the number of cricket species being bred as herp food, and resolved to investigate the species and diets I saw in greater detail. A recent article in Zoo Biology (2011, V. 30), which provides insights into carotenoid supplementation in three different cricket species, has re-sparked my interest. I’ll summarize below.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are pigments that occur in plants. Animals, as far as is known, cannot manufacture carotenoids but rather must obtain them through their diet.

Carotenoids benefit the immune system by acting as antioxidants, function in the reproductive and other systems, and are believed partially responsible for the health benefits enjoyed by people who regularly consume fruits and vegetables.  We know little of their role in reptile and amphibian health, but many zoo nutritionists believe them to be important. Read More »

The incredible diversity of life in tidal creeks and rivers has attracted me since childhood.  And while invertebrates and fishes predominate, areas where fresh and salt water meet hold wonderful surprises for reptile enthusiasts as well.  Today I’d like to discuss a turtle that I often find in brackish water habitats, and which seems to be evolving unique adaptations to survive there – the Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpentina.

A Turtle Banquet

The Long Island (NY) tidal creeks (please see photo) that I frequent seem “paved” with crabs, marine worms, snails, bottom fishes, mussels, clams, shrimp and other foods that could be easily exploited by turtles.  In fact, research indicates that at least one marine turtle, the Kemp’s Ridley, actively migrates to the LI Sound, gaining up to a pound per week during the time it remains there.  The Snapping Turtles I’ve seen in such habitats have been quite large, and I can’t help but think that abundance of high quality, easily-caught food must play a role in their presence.

I’ve even been fortunate enough to come upon a family of River Otters in one tidal creek, a species long gone from LI but now making a comeback.  I’ve worked with captive otters, and can attest that if they are present, there’s lots of food about – their appetites are unbelievable! Read More »