NEWSLETTER OF THE

MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

OCTOBER 1994 VOLUME XIV NUMBER 10 BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY IO CHURCH STREET SOUTH EAST MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

Do you evcr havc a question about onc of your hcrps and wondcr who might be able to provide an answer? Most people who kccp pets of any kind have been is this situation at one time or another. A group of MRS members has volunteered to provide assistance. Listed below arc thc peoplc and their specialties. Pleasc bc reasonable about the time of day and how frequently you call.

Large pythons and constrictors Terrestrial turtles and tortoises Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268 John Moriarty 647-1334 Vence Jimerson 869-8547 Ann Porwoll 489-7853

Other Snakes Glen (Jake) Jacobsen 757-8268

John Meltzer 263-7880 Aquatic Turtles

John or Connie Levell 374-5422 Michele Stillinger 224-7212 Dennis Daly 331-8606

Amphibians Lizards John Meltzer 263-7880

Greg Kvanbek 533-7723 Nancy Haig 789-4637

Jeff LeClere 488-6388 Bill Moss 434-8684

Education Contact Crocodilians Dav Lydon 536-9783 Jeff Lang (701) 772-0227

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; 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

Bill Moss John Levell George Richard Randy Blasus Marilyn Brooks Michele Stillinger Gary Ash Donna Calander Jeff LeClere Barb Radanke Glen Jacobsen

SNAKEBITE EMERGENCY

HENNEPIN REGIONAL POISON CENTER

MINNESOTA POISON CONTROL SYSTEM

LOCAL

OUT OF STATE

(612) 347-3141

(612) 221-2113

(800) 222-1222

(612) 488-1383 (612) 374-5422 (612) 623-7620 (612) 925-4237 (612) 925-4237 (612) 224-7212 (612) 753-0218 (612) 757-8268 (612) 488-6388 (612) 291-1132 (612) 757-8268

Copyright Minnesota Herpetological Society. TIle 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 arc given to the MHS Newsletter, citing, volume, number, and date.

M[][NN1E§OTA lH[]ERP1ET01LOG1[CA1L §OC][lETY

Table of Contents ...

MHS Upcoming Meeting Highlights MHS Business MHS Meeting Review Use of Cedar or Pine as a Substrate by Melissa Kaptan Snakes ofMN ... Western Hognose by Jeff LeClere Classified Ads MN Amphibian & Reptile Distribution Request

From the Editor ...

page 3 page 4 page 6 page 11 page 12 page 16 page 19

't

Looks like there was a good turn out for the Midwest in MO. MHS was repre­sented by nearly 30 people, more than any other society coming from out of state! There was also an incredible turn out for October's General Meeting with Joseph T. Collins. Nearly 130 people showed up. Mr. Collins donated his speaker fee to an Amphibian Fund. Lets see a great turn out for this months meeting for members Barney Oldtield and John Moriarty. Bring some cash, Barney and John will be signing copies of their new book that will be for sale. See details in the upcoming speaker review and page 8. New details for photo contest are listed on page 9. One tinal note, John Moriarty is requesting distt'i­bution reports to update distribution maps, see pages 19 & 20 for info and forms.

Next Newsletter Deadline: NOY(,lUhrr 4th. t 994

Sl'nd all articles, ads. & inquiries directly to the ncwsletter editor at:

MilS EDITOR 234 West CiL'orgc Sf. St. Paul. MN 55107

2 MHS Newslelter Volume XIV Number IO

Welcome! Welcome to the Minnesota Herpetological Society! Meetings are presented on various topics, directly and indi­rectly, related to reptiles and amphibians. Membership rates begin at $15. If you wish to join, please visit the Membership SecretaIY during the General Meeting or fill out the form on the inside back cover of this newsletter.

The General Meeting is held the first Friday of every month (except holiday weekends - see list below) at Bortaug Hall, Room 335 on the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus. Meeting begins at 7:.0.0 sharp.

Meeting dates for 1994

November 4, 1994 December 2, 1994 December 3,1994 (Holiday Party)

MHS PURPOSE & BOARD OF DIRECTORS are listed on the inside front cover of this newsletter as well as the phone numbers of members who can answer specific animal related questions you may have. Please look for these people at the General Meeting as well.

General Meeting Agenda

Meetings begin at 7:.0.0 sharp. If you are late, please enter through the back door of the lecture room, around cor­ner to the right. The meeting consists of a brief address by the President on pertinent business followed by the in­troduction of the speaker of presentation. After the speaker there is a short break when you can purchase raffle tickets for an assortment ofherp related items, buy books, t-shirts, check out library books in our well stocked herp library and talk to a friend or meet someone new. Following the break we have our "Critter of the Month", sort ofa show-n-tell of your favorite herps. Finally we hold the raffle drawing. meeting ends by 1.0:.0.0 when we must leave the room, although it could end earlier allowing for additional socializing. After the meeting, you may find many of our members at the local restaurants, still talking about herps!

HELPFUL HINT: Board members and information people will try to answer your questions and seek out new members but sometimes there are so many people it may be hard to find them. Just look for the information signs or members with yellow colored name tags.

Meeting Etiquette

We request that talking be kept to a minimum during the presentation or when board members are speaking. This is a general courtesy to the speaker as well as the members present. Believe it or not, we have had a problem due to the casual nature ofthe setting or we wouldn't have to state this! If you need to leave after the meeting begins, please enter and exit through the back doors. For the safety of all members, animals and our standing with the University, please do not allow children to TUn up and down the stairs in the lecture room or in the halls. Because the University lets us use this lecture room at no charge, all children must be with parents when in the building. Occasionally treats are donated by a member. Please make sure children take one serving to allow everyone a chance to enjoy! Sales other than MHS merchandise are NOT allowed in the meeting room, transactions may be performed out in the hall. Animals brought for "Critter of the Month" must stay in their cages, bags, etc, before and after "Critter of the Month". This is for the safety of the animal, too many fingers in the pot... NO venomous animals are allowed, If you have questions about this policy or feel your animal does not qualify as venomous, please contact Vice President John Levell. Final permission will be granted by John only.

A1/IS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

Upcoming Meeting Highlights

NOVEMBER 1994 PROGRAM:

THE NEW GUIDE TO MINNESOTA'S

HERPETOFAUNA:

"AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES NATIVE TO MINNESOTA"

SPEAKERS:

BARNEY OLDFIELD AND JOHN MORIARTY

3

The Minnesota Herpetological Society's general meeting will featUl'e a velY special presentation by Barney Oldfield and John Moriarty, speaking on the trials and tribulations of authoring Amphibians and Reptiles Native to Minnesota. This b'reat anticipated and long awaited title features completely updated range maps and species accounts for all the amphibians and reptiles native to Minnesota, and then some. This hard cover book is lavishly illustrated with 116 of Barney Oldfield's exceptional color photographs, which is a number considerably higher than the 50 or so herp species native to the state. All in all, this is one beautiful book!

In addition to being co-authors of Amphibians and Reptiles Native to Minnesota, Barney Oldfield and John Moriarty are both long time MHS members. Barney is actively involved in research on Timber Rattlesnakes, both in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and has authored Of co-authored articles on that species, as well as on other reptile species. In addition, Barney's photographs of amphibians and reptiles are among the finest I've ever seen, and his photo's have appeared in herpetological publications too numerous to mention. John Moriarty has held several MHS Boar'd of Directors positions in the past, and he is a former president of our society. John is cunently a wildlife specialist with Hennepin Parks where he is actively involved with several herpetological projects, including work with Blanding's Turtles, the Bullsnake (yes I said Bullsnake) reintroduction program, and the Minnesota Frog and Toad Survey. Both Barney and John have extcnsivc t1e1d experience in Minnesota, and the two of them are among the leading authorities on the herpetofauna of the state.

The publication of Amphibians and Reptiles Native to Minnesota should be very gratifying to the entire MHS membership, not only because MHS members are the authors, but because the society as a whole donated $500,00 to help with prepublication expenses, While $500,00 may not seem like a lot of money when viewing the total cost of producing a book of this quality, it is a lot of money to a society that has a total operating budget of $5000 to $6000 a year. It was without a doubt, however, money well spent.

Copies of Amphibians and Reptiles Native to Minnesota will be available at the November meeting, at a rock bottom bargain price for MHS members. With both Barney and John in attendance, the portion of the meeting following their presentation promises to turn into one giant autograph party, Best of all, plans are being made to allocate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book to a special MHS Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Fund. Make sure you make it to this meeting, as you wouldn't want to be the only one without an autographed copy of this book now, would you. See you there! JPL

4 MHS Newsletter VolumeXfV Number fO

MHS Business

August Board Meeting Highlights

By Randy Blasus, Recording Secretary

The monthly meeting of the MHS Board of Directors was conducted October 8, 1994 at Gary Ash's house. A quorum of directors was present. The board took the following actions:

We lined up one judge for the photo contest as well as several prizes. [see photo contest rules and highlights on pagelo]

Motion was made and passed to donate a portion of the

CRITTER OF THE MONTH:

John Levell - Terl'apene carolina triunguis

Kate Rosenberg - The most incredibly tame Tokay gecko you have ever seen! It did not bite! It did not try to get away! It was not dead!

Joselyn Shackelford - baby ball python

Dan Bergquist - spiney-tailed iguana

Beau Larson - male western hognose

Amphibian & Reptiles Native to MNbook proceeds to a Julie Peterson - fox snake & milk snake new MHS Conservation Fund.

lake Jacobsen - Burmese brown tortoise

A policy on sales was made to help reduce the impact from bad checks we are currently getting. Donna Calander - Bell's hingebacked tortoise

10% ofMHS surveys are in and are being tabulated. [if See guidelilles 011 page two for Criller of the MOllth.

you still have one send it in pleases]

Due to our Newsletter not being forwarded by the Post Office, we will begin putting "address correction re­quested" labels on to keep our mailing labels current. Cost is $.35 per corrected address. [if you have changed your address contact us so we can change your label. You may not be receiving you newsletter be­cause ofthis ]

We purchased a video for the Librmy of Walter Auffen­burg's talk at the SSAR on monitors.

Presented and accepted were: Treasurer's Report, Mem­bership Report and Board Meeting Minutes.

General Meeting Highlights

130 people attended the October meeting. Raffle made $70.25.

RAFFLE DONORS:

Randy Blasus, Marilyn Brooks, Joselyn Shackelford & Cindy Hoeye.

Prizes included: posters, heaters, magazines, foam cool­ers and a bunch of wonderful pewter sea turtle pendents_

AND IF JOHN LEVELL DOESN'T START WRIT­ING DOWN THE COMMON NAME OF HIS ANI­MALS, I'M GOING TO STOP LISTING HIM!!!

Other MHS Business

If you would like to donate a refreshment, such as cook­ies, for a meeting, contact Refreshment Chair Nanette Jimerson at 869-8547. Or, please make a donation in our Donation Frog on the table to help us purchase cof­fee and kool-aid.

The MHS constitution amendment passed. If you would like a copy see Membership Secretary George Richard or Treasurer Marilyn Brooks at the next meeting.

*Notice* The Madeleine Linck Turtle & Tortoise Conservation Fund has been xenamed to just the Turtle & Tortoise Conservation Fund at Madeleine's request. She so mod­est! We appreciate all you have done for the benefit of reptiles and amphibians Madeleine! Anyway, the fund has $200+ in it. We are currently looking for an appro­priate charity to donate it to_

ArfHS Newsleffer Volume x/v Numher 10 5

MHS Business

Reminders NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW!

. . . MHS now has a Voice Mail box through the Bell Mu-You stili have tnne to get those Surveys back. Your m- seum. This mail box will tell of important breaking put is greatly appreciated. Please return them to the next information such as upcoming events, directions to General meeting or send to the Society at the address on meeting, changes, ctc. You can also leave messages. the front of this newsletter. Thanks! The number is #624-7065.

HELP WANTED!

ASSIST ANT NEWSLETTER EDITOR WANTED!!

If you like to type, read or do research, your the person I need! I have a stack of interesting articles and newspaper clippings waiting to be summarized, reviewed and condensed. De­pending on how good a typer you are, it shouldn't take more than a couple of hours per newsletter. Your help would be greatly appre­ciated and your time would be counted as vol­unteer hours to the society. Please contact Michele at 224-7212.

Recognize this handsome

fellow?

It's our fearless leader Bill Moss, pic­tured here in a recent article in the

.. Star Tribune on the Pet Fair at the Civic Center in St. Paul. Lookin'

~~~~ good Bill! Does it bite?

Bill's My ilero!

6 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

MHS General Meeting Review by Randy Blasus, Recording Secretary

Taxonomy and systematics can be a confusing subject for many people. This is doubly true when we begin to compare methods of study where the outcome conflicts with accepted nomenclature.

Currently Joe Collins is at the forefront of a change in the way we classify amphibians and reptiles. The biological method we use now describes a species by external morphology; the way it looks and if they produce viable offspring. Various differences in the animal's appearance are used such as scale counts and type, amount of toe webbing, size of tympanum and many other measurements to define species. This, however does not define species in a universal way. Molecular systematics is now being used to better describe species through gene flow and exchange. Basically if the animals breed and exchange genetic material in their native population they can be of the same species.

The science uses samples of genetic code gathered through blood and tissue samples. Once the info has been gathered from a number of specimens, they look for certain differences in the code to prove that the animals are evolving separately. The differences genetically may produce such subtle differences such as arrangement of body patterning. These differences are possibly the clues that show the beginnings of divergent evolution for the specimens.

The new molecular method works well for isolated populations

where it is easy to show genetic differences but has not yet been proven on such intermingled species as milk snakes where there is less separation and a much wider range.

In the use of this system, herpetology is almost twenty years behind the rest of the world. However, it is still far from being fully accepted by the Herpetological community at large. Some still prefer the method that has been used for generations as the most accurate. Others question the accuracy of the interpretations of the data. One example is how do you determine the natural genetic diversity within the species; let alone what constitutes an unacceptable variable. Another item is how the new method demphasizes subspecies and raises some to species level.

We are just beginning to find the tip of the iceberg as far as Herpetology is concerned. There are many unanswered questions and unknown variables in these animals. That coupled with the low level of funding being applied to this area and it will be a long time before this controversy is settled.

This issue is so complex that it was not covered here in great detail because of the inherent controversy of this subject (and to avoid some of Mr. Collins' mail problems). However we will have a copy of the video tape in the library for anyone wishing to subject himself to Joseph's intriguing presentation.

MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10 7

Notice from the Treasurer By Marilyn Brooks, Treasurer

The Minnesota Herpetological Society has, up till now, been lucky enough to remained unharmed by the BAD CHECK fiend. Once in a while we had check returned because someone forgot to deposit a check, but it was always cleared up. Until 1994! Over the last several months we have received SIX bad checks. This scares me. When you look at the checks, you will see that most are for New Memberships. This has resulted in the Board agreeing to become a little stricter in the check acceptance and membership benefits procedures.

Starting Immediately: 1) We will be checking for membership numbers on all checks written. 2) We will be checking for membership numbers in order to check out Library Books. 3) We will be checking for membership numbers in order to place a rodent order.

You can help prevent any delays by wearing your name badge at the meetings. The biggest impact comes to the new members who will have to wait a month in order to partake on a couple of the benefits (#2 and #3). A new member can avoid some of the inconvenience with by paying with cash. Hopefully everyone can understand that we are just trying to protect our organization from any worse impact of what seems to be a bad trend.

If anyone has questions, comments, or concerns on this, please contact me at home at 925 - 4237.

NEWSLETTER FOLDING VOLUNTEERS JANUARY 1994 - JUNE 1994

It is defmitely true that a society is only as good as its volunteers. Therefore, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helps with the important task of newsletter folding.

Randy Blasus Sally Brewer Julie Cherveny Delles'; Brandon, Chase Bruce and Nancy Haig Alan Kwong

Jeff LeClere Levell's; Connie,John Bill Moss Ann Porwoll Barb Radanke Rea's; James, Karen, Josie, Siri

Again, Special Thanks to Delvin Jones for his hard work on generating the labels.

Marilyn Brooks, Newsletter Folding Chairperson

8 MilS Newsletter Volume XIV Number fO

IT'S HERE!

256 pages, 7 3/8 x I () 1/2 inches 116 color photographs, 49 IlWpS

cloth/jacket, $25.95

The only guide to amphibians and reptiles ofthe Upper Midwest - includes maps and identification aids,

This is the book we've been waiting for! MHS members Barney Oldfield, a veterinarian, and John J. Moriatiy, wildlife specialist for Hennepin Parks, have combined 25 years of experience and study to produce this fabulous book.

And MHS members have the oppOliunity to get a closer look at the book at the November General Meeting where Barney and John will be talking about their book and signing your personal copy!

How do I get a copy? you might ask. MHS will have books for sale at the meeting at a REDUCED cost to MEMBER ONLY! Price is $22.00, $4 off retail. If you can't make the meeting we can ship you a copy for $22 + $2 shipping & handling. Copies sent in the mail will be signed. Non members may purchase the book for $25.95 (+ $2 S & H). IN ADDITION ... MHS will be donating $1 of every book sold to the MHS Conservation Fund. This fund will be used to help a reptile and/or amphibian based conservation fund. Remember, ALL proceed from the sales ofMHS merchandise go towards the operation of the society, donations, etc. MHS is NON PROFIT.

A""S Newsletter Volume .XIV Number I () 9

Duck Stamps Help Frogs - So Buy Yours Now!

The federal r1i gratory Bi rd Hunt i ng and Conservation Stamp (better known as the Duck Stamp) is required by all duck and goose hunters. It is also required to visit certain National Wildlife Refuges. The Duck Stamp should also be purchased by persons interested in conserving amphibians and reptiles since the proceeds from the stamps goes to the purchase and maintenance of Nat i ona 1 Wil dl ife Refuges. The protect i on of these 1 arge areas are crit i ca 1 to survi val of a number of amphibian and reptile species.

Minnesota has a number of National Wildlife Refuges. These include the Minnesota Valley NWR in Bloomington, Sherburne NWR in Sherburne Co., Tamarack NWR in Becker Co., Agassiz NWR in Marshall Co., Upper Mississippi NWR in Houston and Winona Cos., Big Stone NWR is Big Stone Co., and the new Crane Meadows NWR being acquired in Morrison Co.

The federal Duck Stamp costs $15.00 and is available at most Post Offices. There is also a state duck stamp that cost $5.00 and is available where hunting licenses are sold. These stamps are highly collected and can be easy resold in the future, so it is a good investment for the frogs and yourself.

10 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

IFA~ 'A,"V"A'ri'A~AV'~~A~A.~~A~ .,/ ''"/''''~

~ ~ ~ Herp Photo Contest! ~ .~ Now is the time to start taking pictures! If you have alreadY~ ~~t .iI taken a few, then start sorting through them looking for that r. ~ perfect photo. This contest is scheduled to take place in the

Iii t ~ PI::~~h e:fc!ec~~:;~;ya!~~e"~e~i~~e~:~~eo~c:I,~'w~~i~:Sa~~:::!d. ~ ~ H" .. " th".I,,, ~ )~ 1. Prints may be entered by any current MHS member. ~ ~ 2. A contestant may enter up to 5 prints. l' )~ 3. All entries must be turned in at 01' before the January meeting or postmarked by ~

)~ December 31, 1994. ~(' ~ 4. Entries will be returned if accompanied by a self addressed stamped envelope. ~ ~ Entries may also be picked up at the February meeting. ~

)~ 5. Prints may be 4"x 6", 5"x 7", or 8"x 10". They should be mounted on cardboard ~( ~ 01' matboard that is at least 8"x 10", but no larger then ll"x 14". Framed prints ~ ~ are discoLlraged. ~ '1 6. The entrants name, address and category needs to be on the BACK of every print ~

I ~ mat. DO NOT place names on the front of mats. ~

I ~ The 3 Categories are: ~ I ~ 1. Black and White Prints ~ ~ 2. Color Prints: Herps in a natural setting ~ ~ 3. Color Prints: Herps with people ~

~ ALL ENTRIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD! ~ k This category is voted on by the membership at the February meeting. t ~PRIZES INCLUDE: $25 worth of enlargements at Great Prints ~ ~ $25 gift certificate at National Camera Exchange ~

, ~**NOTICE** National Camera Exchange has offered to members ofMHS who ~ I )~are entering the photo contest, a 20% discount on enlargements or picture devel- r. I ~oping at the National Camera Exchange located in DINKYTOWN (1327 SE 4th ~

Il).St). Please say you are entering the MHS Photo COI.ltest in order to get discount. ~. f ~Offer is good through December 31,1994. .:

l1.""'..=.. • ..=...-=...-=...-=.. • ..=...-=...-=.. • ..=...-=..~v~..=..v..=..~~v..A

11 MHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

Use of Pine or Cedar as a Substrate by Melissa Kaptan

Courtesy of Cold Blooded News, Vol 21 #9, CO Herp Society

Despite its widespread use in the pet trade and for a variety of pet animals, there remains some confusion over the use of cedar--and by extension, pine--as a substrate for animals, especially for prey animals and reptiles.

In the Winter 1994 issue of Wildlife Rehabilitation Today, the director of a bird conservation stated the question succinctly: "Everyone just says they have 'heard' cedar is harmful, but no one can supply a source of this information, via a study or an authority."

Dr. Richard Evans, a veterinary pathologist who is also associated with the Orange County (CA) Department of Public Health, responded to this question by discussing laboratory fmdings and practical experience in the use of cedar shavings as has been found by study and anecdotal evidence involving rodents, cage birds and poultry.

Dr. Evans states that the extracts of cedar and other soft woods, such as pine, contain a number of aromatic (volatile) compounds including hydrocarbons, cedrene and cadroI. Naphthalene (the active ingredient in moth balls is also a member, but is a distinct compound.

These compounds are known irritants of skin, and cause not only irritation, but the degeneration and death of the cells in the respiratory tract. Once this destruction is set in motion, the animals' defensive barrier is eroded, enabling infection by various microorganisms and secondary microbial infections of the lungs. The medical literature notes increased rates of respiratory infections found in poultry which is raised with cedar shavings in the poultry house. Owners of caged birds have noted similar infection rates, particularly in poorly ventilated areas ..

In addition to the skin irritation and respiratory tract damage, these compounds activate enzymes in the liver which

results in abnormal metabolism of certain drugs, something especiallY critical for animals undergoing antibiotic therapy or surgery.

Dr. Evans notes that there is also some evidence to indicate that reproductive rates may be affected, and cancers promoted, through prolonged contact with these compounds. And, as with any other chemical or disease condition, the very young and very old are especially at risk.

Symptoms of irritation include clear to discolored fluids discharged from eyes and nose (which may be mistaken for a regular microbial respiratory infection), sneezing, coughing, constant blinking or other signs of light sensitivity, irregular breathing (dyspnea) and possibly regurgitation. In severe cases, the animal may fall unconscious with or without convulsions. Secondary bacterial, viral and fungal infections are all the more likely to attack once the cells of the respiratory system ale damaged and destroyed. I

While reptiles and amphibians are not birds or rodents, this is nonetheless important for herpetoculturists. If a rodent or bird skin becomes irritated through fur and feathers, think how much faster that may occur in a furless and featherless reptile or amphibian. Snakes and lizards frequently burrow into their shavings substrate, becoming completely covered by the material, breathing air through the layers of piled up shavings.

With the similarity of the symptoms of cedar toxicity to other common reptile ailments, it is easy to see why toxicity may go undiagnosed. We will never know just how much that housing breeders on cedar may have affected their reproductive success, nor how many recurrent respiratory infections are due to other than stress and too cool temperature conditions in the animal's

enclosure. Birds and rodents are both warm-blooded animals and as such have consistently rapid metabolisms. Herps, on the other hand, have metabolisms that fluctuate depending upon the environmental temperature and meal times. Many herps that don't feel well will stay in the coo lest part 0 f their enclosure, thus slowing down their metabolism, and slowing the effects of any substance ingested or absorbed into their bodies.

You might want to rethink buying prey that has been raised or housed on cedar. Evaluate the health of every animal whom you have housed on cedar and pine (after you clean out the cedar and any residual oils in their enclosure). If you see pet stores housing rodents on cedar or pine. you may \vant to discuss this matter with them, requesting them to change and. if they fail to. purchase your prey and pet rodents elsewhere.

(Reprinted here from the newsle[[er of the Pacific _Vortlnvest Herpetological Society, Vol. V111, No. VI. June 1994. p. 15. Origillol(v from (he .Vorlh Bay Herpetological Society newsletter, April 94)

12 iHHS Nell's/efler Volume x/v Numher I ()

Snakes of Minnesota by Jeff LeClere

WESTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE (Heterodon nasicus nasicus)

Description

This is a medium sized Minnesota snake ranging from 15 to 39 inches in length. It is a very heavy-bodied serpent. It is not venomous. Its ground color is usually some shade of brown with darker brown blotches down the back. There are two alternating rows of smaller dark spots along the sides. There is a large longitudinal blotch on both sides of the neck. The belly is shiny jet black with small yellow or whitish squares, often many squares clustered together. The rostral scale is enlarged; protruding outward and upward like a hog's snout. The snout comes to a point and there is a heavy keel along the top. The scales are keeled and the anal plate is divided.

Subspecies

There are three subspecies of H. nasicus. One of these, the Plains Hognose snake (Heterodon nasicus nasicus) occurs in Minnesota. It intergrades with the Dusty Hognose snake (Heterodon nasicus gloydi) in southern U.S. where their ranges meet. The Dusty Hognose are distinguished by the softer 'dusted' appearance and they have fewer body blotches (less than 32 in males and less than 37 in females). Plains Hognoses' body blotches number more than 35 in males and more than 40 in females. The Mexican Hognose snake (Heterdon nasicus kennerlyi), often the most colorful subspecies, differs in having 2-6 small scales between the internasals and prefrontals instead of nine (Figure 1) like the other two subspecies. Other snake species, such as Rat snakes have no smaller scale separation· the prefrantals and internasals are all touching (Figure 2).

internasals-r,~+-~

~~~~~ __ prefrontals

Figure 1 Figure 2

13 MHS' Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

Range

In Minnesota, the Plains Hognose snake has a very spotty distribution due mostly to a preference for a particular habitat and habitat destruction. Western and central MN have the most concentrated populations, but many small, isolated populations can be found where suitable habitat is left.

Habitat

This snake has a strong preference for sandy or gravelly situations. They like very open portions of prairies or sand dunes with very little cover. Habitat destruction or other environmental changes may push this snake out of its natural habitat and force it to live in more wooded biomes.

Habits

One of the the habits this snake is best known for is its method of protection. This snake is clumsy and slow compared to many other Minnesota snake species. When it is confronted, it may remain still to blend in with its surroundings or it may hide its head under its coils. It will spread its jaws and neck to the extent of a cobra while puffing up its body. This is one of the few Minnesota snakes that actually hiss with great vigor: only the Bullsnake rivals it. It will strike, but with a closed mouth! If this front fails and persecution persists, it will twist and turn as though in pain and then roll over on its back and play dead! With a wide open mouth and tongue hanging out, nothing can persuade it to move. Even if it is picked up it remains limp and lifeless. It may bleed from the mouth and cloaca and expel musk or fecal matter' or regurgitate. It closes off the opening to the esophagus and salivate. This is to prevent the swallowing of dirt and is readily observed in H. platyrhinos. Only one thing gives it away; if it is righted, it will immediately roll on to its back again. If left alone the snake will crawl away and resume its activities. The Eastern Hognose is quite a bit more eccentric with its act than the Western Hognose. H. nasicus also may use its burrowing capabilities to escape. Using its upturned snout it can burrow out of sight amazingly fast.

This snake is diurnal except in very hot weather when it may aestivate. They are most active in the morning and evening. They breed in the spring and, pmhaps more commonly than thought before, again in the fall. They are oviparous laying anywhere from 2 to 30 or more eggs in a clutch with the most common number of eggs being somewhere in the middle of that range. The young Hognoses are 5-8 inches when they hatch in August or September. They hibernate from September to March or April in mammal burrows.

14 MHS News/etter Volume XIV Number /0

Food

These snakes are voracious feeders and consume any smaller animals they find. Frogs, toads, lizards, small snakes, reptile and ground-nesting bird eggs, rodents, and small birds. Carrion is also consumed and young snakes may eat insects.

Hognose snakes are opisthoglyphous (having fangs at the back of the mouth) and they use this feature to 'deflate' toads which may puff themselves up with air to unswallowable proportions. mentioned earlier these snakes were non-venomous, but there is some evidence that they may be mildly venomous. Although Hognoses have fangs, they apparently have no ducts or grooves through which venom could be administered. They also have no venom glands but two species, the Western and Southern Hognose snakes, contain partoid glands. This appears irrelevant, however, as many cases of envenomation have been caused by the Eastern Hognose which lacks the partoid glands. It is thought that the venom is hemotoxic. It is not known whether it is an actual venom that is produced or reactions due to saliva or bacteria. These snakes can hardly be induced to bite, even in the wild, and therefore cases are rare. There are more cases involving H. platyrhinos so we will discuss this more in the upcoming article on Heterodon platyrhinos.

Care

Western Hognose snakes are easy to keep. Ten to fifteen gallon tanks or a 24 x 18 x 12 wooden cage is suitable for adults. Newspaper or indoor/outdoor carpeting is acceptable, but due to their burrowing nature they will spend hours ripping up the paper or carpeting looking to penetrate a mammal burrow. With their tough, bony rostral scale, they are extremely resistant to nose rub but it is better not to take chances. The snakes are also uncomfortable if they display this behavior frequently and for long periods so something must be changed. Aspen shavings, soil, or an intermediate size of gravel or sand may be used. A heavy untippable water dish is a must because these snakes will push it around or tip it over as they burrow under it. Ventral heat is good but a light kept on for 10 to 12 hours a day may be better. The temperature should be about 75 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit. during the day and can drop into the upper 60's at night.

If you keep a warm herp room, supplemental heat may not be necessary.

Feeding is usually not a problem as Western Hognose snakes are not nearly as fussy as their toad-loving relatives, the Eastern Hognose snakes. They will usually consume rodents (headfirst, sideways, or backwards!) without problems right from the start. Amphibians should be discouraged as a staple diet if possible because of parasitism and more frequent feedings (once a week for mice, twice or more for amphibians) and unavailability of amphibians in winter (if you do not hibernate your snakes). If your Hognose does not eat mice, rub the rodent with a toad or a skink (frozenlthawed or live) and it should eat. Many wild-caught Hognoses will stop feeding in the fall and winter no matter how warm you keep them. Such snakes should either be released in the same place they were caught or hibernated.

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

1994 HOLIDAY BANQUET ,ATURDAY, DECEMBER 3,1994 -ERRACE CAFE, ST. PAUL STUDENT CENTER ,T. PAUL CAMPUS, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA ,:30 PM TO 10:30 PM SOCIAL HOUR: 6:30 - 7:30

POTLUCK DINNER: 7:30 . SPEAKER: FOLLOWING DINNER

S5.00 PER PERSON (except children who can sit on parent's lap)

V1HS will be providing coffee, wine, beer, pop and water. Tableware will be provided. :>eople attending are asked to bring a food item and it's necessary serving utensils.

?LEASE MAKE RESERVATIONS BY NOVEMBER 23,1994. DETACH FORM AND SEND WITH A CHECK PAYABLE TO MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY AT: Minnesota Herpetological Society

Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church Street South East

. Minneapolis, MN 55455-0104

CONTACT MARILYN BROOKS IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS AT 925 - 4237.

NAME(S) --__________________________________ __

PHONE NUMBER ________________________________ __

NUMBER OF ADULTS NUMBER OF CHILDREN __________ __

NUMBER OF FREE CHILDREN ________ (those who can sit on parenfs lap)

TOTAL NUMBER ATTENDING --______ _

TOTALAMOUNTENCLOSED$~---------------

FOOD YOU ARE BRINGING: (CIRCLE ONE PER FAMILY)

APPETIZER SALAD VEGETABLE BREAD MAIN DISH DESSERT LET ME KNOW WHAT IS NEEDED

You and your family are hereby invited to attend the Minnesota Herpetological Society 1994 Holiday Banquet on Saturday, December 3rd from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

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The special quest speaker will be Bill Lamar. The topic this year is Herpetological Eco Tourism in Latin America. Not only is he a highly knowledgeable speaker, as he has lived in Latin America for over 20 years. But still gives guided tours as well, and will be fresh back for our program. So come join in the fun with good food, good friends, and a great program.

Your presence is requested at Terrace Cafe at the St. Paul Student Center on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota.

Please RSVP by November 23, 1994 to Minnesota Herpetological Society at Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church Street South East, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455-0104.

MHS Newslelfer Volume XIV Number 10 15

Breeding can be accomplished if the adult snakes are hibernated for about three months. The temperature should be 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In the spring, introduce the pair. Perhaps adding a few extra males would enhance success. Separate the snakes after you notice the female is gravid. Always provide a nest box 2 or 3 weeks after this time. Check the box and cage frequently so the eggs do not dry up or get eaten by the female Hognose. Once you find eggs move them to an incubator with high humidity. In another month or two the young should hatch. The young will feed almost right away on pinky mice. Males become mature after their first year and females become mature in almost 2 years. Try placing your pair of Hognoses together in the fall. This has been successful on many occasions. The young hatch in winter.

References:

Behler, John L. and F. Wayne King. and Amphibians of North America.

1979. The Audubon Society Field Guide to the Reptiles

Breckenridge, W. J. 1944. Reptiles and Amphibians of Minnesota.

Conant, Roger and Joseph T. Collins. Eastern and Central North America.

Le Clere, J. 1989. Hognose snakes.

1991. A Field Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of

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.

Trutnau, Ludwig. 1979. Nonvenomous Snakes.

Vogt, Richard Carl. 1981. Natural History of the Amphibians and Reptiles of Wisconsin.

16 AIHS Newsletler Volume XIV Number 10

Classified Ads 1.0.0 = male, 0.1.0 - female, 0.0. J = unknown, ad rates on inside hack cover of newsletter

For Sale

Aug '94 hatchlings all feeding on frozen mice: Corns­red albino, normal & Okatee; white oak phase grey rats, mex. black kingsnakes. 0.1 mex black king, 5 yrs. Call Connie or John Levell for prices (612)374-5422.

Day geckos-Phefsuma madagascariensis gral1dis C.B. '94, $50 ea; banded caimen, 3 ft., $150. Call Craig at (612)934-7239.

o o

I~ ."..

Large ornate cage, a real piece of furniture for any decor. $200/BO. Call Perry at (612)450-5595.

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1.0 Central American boa, 5 ft, $100; I.l Cal king, 3-4.5', $175 pr; I.l Eastern kings, 4', $145 pr; 1.1 Florida kings, 4-4.5', $145 pr; 1.1 prairie kings, CB 94, $50 pr; I.l speckled kings, 2-4', $125 pr; 5 scarlet kings, CB 94, $15 ea; I green iguana, 5', $100; 5 plumed basilisks, CB 94, $60 ea; 0.1 redfoot tortoise, 13", long term cap­tive, $175. Call (612)388-2872.

I.l snow corns, young adults, $50 ea $90 pr; 1.0 ame­lanistic corn, beautiful adult, $35; 1.0 normal corn, big adult, $25. Call Becky evenings (612)699-8031.

1994 hatchlings, avail now! Western hognose, feeding on pinks, going fast, $30; exceptional Pueblan milk­snakes, $50-75; ghost and creamsickle corns, $30: ame­lanistic and anerythristic corns, $20; "intcrmontana" EmOlyi, $75; mex.mex., exceptionally bright, $50;

Mexican black kingsnakes, most pure black, $35; gray­banded kingsnakes, light, bright, Blairs, $75-100; leop­ard geckos, $20; surplus adult snakes avail. Quantity discounts avail. All calls retumed. Joel (814)724-8351.

3.4 Carpet pythons, handpicked '93 breeders expo, un­related, $175-200. Pager 643-8778, hm 774-6786.

Baby Burmese pythons, captive bom, $50 each. Con­tact Jay Whitesel at (507)367-2470.

Captive bred children's pythons, $125; Brazilian rain­bow boas, $250; Columbian rainbow boas, $85; Hogg Island boas, $350. Due May/June, can deliver to Twin Cities. Contact Mark Wendling (319)857-4787.

Wanted

All the shed snake skins in the world, always, to use at hands-on programs to give to kids. Bob Duerr 541-0362.

VOLUNTEERS! Get involved with your herp

society! Meet new and exciting people! MHS is AL­WAYS looking for volunteers for different events and MHS committees such as Hands-on and Newsletter foldings. Currently we are looking for individuals inter­ested in helping out the adoption committee. Please contact President Bill Moss for more info on these op­portunities. Thanks for your support!

Misc.

Snake skins tanned. Call Jane for more info at 724-7437.

BOA SURVEY: Please write for my questionnaire on boa constrictor reproduction. Even if your animals have not reproduced, please respond if they are at least 4 years 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 300703, Arlington, TX 76007, USA. iNTER­NET: 7223.220@COMPUSERVE.COM

MHS Newsletter Volume XIV NUll/bel' 10

Classified Ads Continued ...

MHS Merchandise

RAT & MICE SALES

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

Rats: Pups - $10.00 doz. Adults - $12.00 six

$24.00 doz.

Orders taken by Terry Scheiber only. Must be at least one week in advance of general meeting where they will be delivered. Tel: (612)440-7482.

MISe.

MHS also offers an assortment of other herp related items for sale at the general meetings including:

books magazines posters notecards t-shirts

buttons stickers bumper stickers patches

Look for sales of merchandise at the far right hand side of the meeting room. Transactions can be han­dled before the meeting, during the break and after

the meeting ends if time allows. All proceeds from the sale of MHS merchandise goes towards the costs of rnnning the society snch as: Speaker fees, library books, charitable donations, etc. MHS is a non­profit organization and is volnnteer !"Un.

For Sale or Petting 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

Featuring ... IAMS ... Natural Life ... Science Diet Tetra ... Toppers ... Other Specialty Foods

VIVARIUM PETS A Full Line of Pet Supplies &

Unusual Pets

6519 Nicollet Ave. S. Richfield, MN 55423

Gloria Anton 612-861-8868

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

l\.'I-F 10·8, Sat 10-6, Sun \2-5

6519 Nicollet Ave. So. (612)861-8868 Richlield,!YIN 55423

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JOHN & RUTH MELTZER (612) 263-7880

WE (lAVE CAPTIVE BRED:

BEARDED DRAGONS! CHINESE WATER

DRAGONS! VEILED

CHAMELEONS! ANI) MANY TYPES

OFGECKOS!

JHHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

SECORD'S EXOTIC ANIMAL HOUSE BILLY SECORD - (612)920-1987

LARGEST PRODUCER OR SMALL EXOTIC MAMMALS IN MINNESOTA!

HEDGEHOGS, DUPRAS IS, ZEBRA MICE, PYGMY MICE, GIANT AFRICAN POUCHED RATS, JIRDS, MOUSE LEMURS, BRUSH-TAILED KANGAROOS, AND MUCH, MUCH MORE! - U.S.D.A LICENSED

BREEDING INVENTORY SURVEY: Everyone keeping live reptiles and amphibians is asked to contribute to this annual report. Please submit the following information current January I st of each year. (I) inventory or your collection, list numbers and sex, (2) list all species bred during the previous year, (3) any longevity records, (4) please print clearly, your name, address, and telephone number as you want them listed, (5) please do respond, Send all information to: Frank Slavens, P,O, Box 30744, Seattle, WA 98103, Fax: 206-546-2912,

TIMBER RATTLESNAKJ<; - 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

i and can be personalized upon request. MHS members interested in purchasing a print should contact the artist at MHS meetings or by

calling (612)347-8760 (W) or (612)933-2055 (H), Proceeds will be used to recover printing costs and further Tim-

i ber Rattlesnake research in Minnesota. So place your order soon -they won't last long!

MHS News/eller Volume XIV Number /0

Updating Distribution Maps for Minnesota's Amphibians and Reptiles

submitted by John Moriarty

Now that, Atnphib~ans_®dR~ptil~Nativelo Mi[lllCsnta (Oidfieid and Moriarty, 1994) has been published there will be persons wilh addiuons and uJXiates to the distribution maps. Actually there have already been some additions from the spring and summer of 1994.

If you have an addition or upgrade to the distIibution maps you should contact me (Jolm Moriarty). I will maintain a list of changes and publish the additions once a year in the MHS newsletter. I will also assist persons to WIite up signiflcant range extensions for publication.

Distribution records should be accompanied by: 1. a specimen, or 2. photograph or 3.detailed sighting report (before submitting a sighting report see I or 2). Road Kills make good specimens or take a single individual. Do Not collecllive adult specimens of turOes or state listed snakes, take a photo instead. Slides are preferred to prints but both are accepted.

When you submit a distribution record please use the attached form. Locality information should in written using Township/Range/Section format. See Kam's Field Herpetology for information on this system. Additional field notes Of comments should be entered on the back side.

Additional information on interesting natural history facts, such as size, color patterns, predation, etc., are als,~, r,~c;cd~c' "hl"r.,l Hi"!,,!'v infnrrnMion ean he sent to Bamey Oldfield or Jolm Moriarty.

MINNESOTA AMPHIBIAN ANQ.,Rm'TILE DISTRIBUTION REPORT .5 A/"1 /<-- (-=

Species: Bluck tfo.yL 5 m h (Rrhf' O/;Ntf/;) Date: 1.5(1"';/ If 97 Location: County: @1-<5 ./=cJ r} T /OZ.{lR 71:/ SEC >{' J;:' J[

Site Name: If e no Vcy .I..{l" &'c.(= Closest Highway and Direction: !/ivy';Z 6" y" /7,)(1 4/0/ !6-I, 2'1?

I / 7J ! ) Site Description: Vegetation:_--",-,f;.::.'t,--F'I1!UCt",-5_,,-q.!LIz-,r/'---,~rt~r~4~?f"---=-::...!(J!.tfiJ{L£e:.!J":.....;;Qu.r:....e~"-"f'---_

tl' J Terrain:_----"-f.LI.s;:.t9-'j)!F""'--"6LLIt..:../I..z.f_ICI/'--=-u"d'-'"----'?::...:c::...!,,::LA'-1f1:Lc....::ec.!:./~!J;.:..!l11t:..1h:<;r:.L._ Water: oIr./ - 11,')[. t?(v-R-? 1J7cJ:wr;~ ~ )O{) vch Fa

;- I

Specimen_ Photo~ Sighting __ (contact for shipping instructions) (attach) (attach detailed description)

Collector Name: __ ~8iL!..-' -.:..!I'-"_--L6LI,Lt'~C~4'~e~/ __________ _ I'

Address: __ -Lf!~()L' ~tJ~O,!L!X~/:...:;.'2 ..... .;-3 __ --;-_______ _

0",;'" fiv"f ~h , 1lt1/ ... ;

Phone: Home_-f/,-2~],-"_-~'I~r~6--,--7 __ Work _=--( ::J-=--3::...:-_7'LL;--1.6~--,-7 __

Mail to: John Moriarty, Hennepin Parks, 3800 Co Rd. 24, Maple Plain, MN 55359 (6121476-4663

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20 AIHS Newsletter Volume XIV Number 10

MINNESOTA AMPmBIAN AND REPTILE DISTRIBUTION REPORT

Spec~: ________________________________________ Dare: __________ __

Location: COunty: ______________________ T _____ R,, _____ ,SEC, _____ _

Sire Name: ____________________________________ __

Closest Highway and Directi.on: ______________ _

Sire Description: Vegetation: ______________________________ _

T~: ____________________ _

Warer. ______________________________________ _

Specmen___ Photo (comactfor shipping instr.:ctioflS) (attach-) -

Sightin,\-g ...,....,,---, (attach detailed descripnon)

COll~Name: _______________________________________________ _

Ad~: ___________________________________________ __

Phone: Home _________________ Work ______________ _

MOil to: John Moriarty, Hennepm ParieS, 3800 Co Rd. 24, Maple Plain, MN 55359 (612)476-4663

FI ELD NOTES AND COMMENTS : ___________________ __

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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 (I) standard size business card. DEADLINE for all newsletter items is one week before the general meeting.

NON MEMBER & EXPANDED SIZE ADS: Line ads:$.10 per word. Business Cards: $5.00 per month.

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

One month only $10.00 permonth $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

MINNESOT A HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

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TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP? NEW __ .__ RENEWAL __ __

MEMBERSHIP LEVEL? _--"SUSTAINING ..... S60.00

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HOW DID YOU HEAR OF MHS? ______________ ~--------------

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Indicate how many of each size

ADULTS: SMALL_ MEDIUM LARGE__ X-LARGE __

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 OCTOBER 26, 1994

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PAID Mpls.MN

Permit No. 2275