MINNESOTA

HERPETOLOGICAL

SOCIETY

NEWSLE1TER Vol. 19 No.1 JANUARY 1999

Board of Directors President Gemge Richard (612) 639~368

Vicc President Barb Buzicky (651) 291-1132

Recording Secretary Bruce Haig (612) 434-ll684

Membership Secretary Amy Peterson (612) 922-4066

Treasurer Marilyn Blasus

Newsletter Editor NancyHaig

Past President! Members at large Fred Bosman Laurie Grassel Gordon Merck Janell Osborn Sarah Richard

Committees Adoption Sarah Richard Jane11 Osborn Sean Hewitt Greg Kvanbek

Education Sean Hewitt

Northern ?vlinnesota

(612) 925-4237

(612) 434-8684

(612) 476-0306 (612) 428-4625 (612) 566-2001 (612) 455-6540 (612) 639-6326

(612) 639~326 (612) 455~540 (612) 935-5845 (612) 388-0305

(612) 935-5845

Jeff Korbel (218) 586-2588

Occasional Papers John Moriarty (651) 482-8109

Rodent Sales Tina Cisewski (612) 856-2865

Herr Assistance Amphibians Greg Kvanbek (612) 388-0305 Jo1m t-.'ieltzer (612) 236-7880 John r..loriarty (651) 482-8109

Chameleons Vern & Laurie Grassel (612) 428-4625

Crocodilians

Jeff Lang (701) 722-0227

Uzards NancyHaig (612) 434-8684

Big lizards, Monitors Bill Moss (612) 488-1383

L--uge boas, Pythons Tina Cisewski (612) 856-2865

Other snakes Jeff leClere (612) 488-6388 John !Vleltzcr (612) 263-7880

Aquatic Turtles Gary Ash (612) 753-0218 Jo1m Levell (507) 467-3076

Terrestrial T ttrtles Fred Bosman (612) 476-0306 Jolm Levell (507) 467-3076

The Minnesota Herpetological Society

Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church Street, SE,

Minneapolis Minnesota, 55455-0104

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

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

JANUARY 1999 Volume 19, Number 1

The purpose of the Minnesota Herpetological Society is to

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

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

• Promote the study and conservation of reptiles and amphibians.

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

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

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

The :tvfirmesota Herpetological Society bruchaig@citilink .com Attn: Newsletter Editor Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church St, SE Minneapolis, MN. 55455-0104

Snakebite Emergency Hennepin Co. Regional Poison Center

(612) 347-3141 Minnesota Poison Control System

Local (612) 221-2113 Out of State: (800) 222-1222

Copyright lvlinnesota Herpetological5<xiety 1999. Contents may be reproduced for non-profit use provided that aU material is reproduced without change and proper credit is given authors and the ivtHS Newsletter citing: volume, number and date.

January 1999 Newsletter

Upcoming Meeting Highlights

February Program:

"The Great White Snake Sale

& Photo Contest"

Dust off your excess herp treasures and bring your wallets and checkbooks. It's time for the Great White Snake Sale and Photo Contest.

This annual event is a major flmd raising source for the MHS. Proceeds from the sale go towards the items you see expensed in the budget. The more money we raise, the more functions" services and grants we can support.

Here's how it works. Bring your cages, equipment, arhvork, knickknacks, books, etc. to the February Meeting. Give them to the sales staff in the back of the room. Put small items Oewelry, magnets, etc.) on a piece of cardboard so they won't get lost. IncludIng a list of items with suggested sale prices and your name really helps speed things up. You may request a receipt for your donations. MHS is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization.

Get your name badge from the box, find a seat in the side rows and let the fun begIn. TIus is a silent auction. The middle sections

THE MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

wiJI be roped off wiJI the items are being set-up. When the area is opened, check out the items, if you see something you like, write down your bid (increments of $.25) and your membership number (it's on your badge). Keep checking your item in case someone raises your bid. A time limit is established and a final call will be announced before the session is closed and the items removed.

Please have patience until the totals are computed. All purchases must be paid for when you pick them up.

During the auction check out the

PHOTO CONTEST ENTRIES

that wiJI be On display and vote for your favorites. There's still time to enter your photos. Follow the contest presentation rules and bring them Friday night. Be sure to contact Michele Hewitt (612) 935-5845 if you are bringing late entries.

Date: February 5, 1999 Location: Borlaug Hall, Room 335, U of M. St. Paul Campus 7:00pm

PHOTO CONTEST RULES

There are four categories: Herps in a Natural Setting Herps with People Photographs by professional

photographers Miscellaneous styles

Volume 19 Number 1

Entries must be: 1. 41/ x6",5trx711, 8"xl0" motulted

on cardboard no larger than 11'x14" .

2. Identified on the back with entrants' name, address, and category. Do not place names on the front of the prints.

3. Members may submit up to five prints.

Requests for Funding The MHS Board of Directors is

reviewing the allocation of donation funds for this year. We are looking for organizations and projects that are herp-related in the areas of conservation, education or research. Contact a Board member if you have a suggestion or send a request with a summary of the groups planned activity and history to our mailing address:

The Minnesota Herpetological Society / Grants Committee Bell Museum of Natural History 10 Church st. SE. Mirmeapolis, MN, 55455

Attention Members The Annual Meeting of the

Mirmesota Herpetological Society will be held March 5,1999.

As part of the meeting we wiJI be electing the new Board of Directors. H you would like to run for a position or nomInate someone else, please contact Bruce Haig, (612) 434- 8684. (See page 5 for 11I0re information-ed.)

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

Thanks For All Your Help

Part of the fun in starting a New Year is remembering all the people who helped you through the last one. These names were taken from the sign up sheets in the front of the room. If we've missed anyone, we're sorry, please remember to sign the sheets so we can properly thank you next year.

Critter of the month

This is the time for members to share their animals and experiences with a crowd that can appreciate how wonderful the reptiles really are. It's hard to pack up an animal after a long day, stand in front of a large crowd and figure out something to say, but 25 people managed to do it. If you learned something new, saw an interesting animal, or just enjoyed the show, say thanks to:

Dan Keyler, Julie Peterson, Kristin Schouweiler, Jeff LeClere, Noah Anderson, Jake Jacobsen, Gordon Merck, Joy Nordquist Laurie Grassel, Nancy Haig, Duane McDermott, John Levell, Randy Blasus, Barb Buzicky, George Richard, Heidi Davenport, Sara Knez, John Moriarty, Bill Moss, Del Jones, Donna Calander, Jim Gerholdt, Evan Muriss, Craig Rewier, Amy Peterson.

Refreslunents

"Nice but not really Necessary" spelled the end of the refreshments at the General Meetings. As no one stepped forward to officially set-up the table and drinks, the offerings have dwindled to an occasional treat. Mysteriously, items appear and magically disappear, but no one has signed up for credit. To our "munchies elves" a grateful thanks.

Raffle Donors

The raffles supply an important part of our funding for MHS. In 1998 we earned $393.75 thanks to our corporate donors:

The Bell Museum of Natural History

Living Museum of Natural History- Lanesboro, MN

MHS Adoption Committee Camp Snoopy MNDNR, Underwater World, MOA Remains to be Seen Tortoise Trust, USA Declining Amphibians Task

Force

And our own members:

Randy & Marilyn Blasus, Fred & Liz Bosman, Barb Buzicky, Caitlin Moriarty, Dav Kaufman, The Keylers, Roger & Jody Statz;

And of course the generosity of the members buying tickets!

Newsletter

The MHS publishes a monthly newsletter filled with the news and announcements of the society and articles of interest for the members. Supplying 33 articles this year were:

Sean Hewitt, Franke Forstner, Janell Osborn, John Moriarty, James Rea, Greg K vanbek, Gary Casper, David Norman, John Levell, Fran Frisch, Randy Blasus, George Richard, Jeff LeClere.

I would also like to thank James Rea for coordinating all the newsletter foldings and seeing that it gets mailed out in time. -Nallcy Haig-editor

2

State Fair

This year saw a major change in our display and location in the MN DNR building at State Fair. Although technically not a Hands­On, this is an important educational display of reptiles native to Minnesota. Thousands of people visit the fair and pass through the DNR building. We are now in a centralized location in the building, great for public exposure but more controlled for temperature, which is nice for the animals. The new cage system also helps display the animals better.

Special Thanks go to:

The construction crew:

Vern Grassel - for the custom cages

Bruce Haig, George Richard, Del Jones, Gordon Merck for set­up.

Animal Donors:

John Moriarty, Jim Gerholdt, Merle & Jan Larson, Gordon Merck

Animal Care Givers-

Randy & Marilyn Blasus, Fred & Liz Bosman, Jim & Pam Gerholdt, Bruce & Nancy Haig, Maryjane Hommes, Alan Kwong, Neal Kwong, Merle & Jan Larson, Gordon Merck, John Moriarty, and Lynn Paiter.

If you have any comments about the State Fair display this year, (especially those who worked out there) please contact Nancy Haig (612) 434-8684. Watch for announcements for this coming year's display. See you at the Fair!

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

GENERAL MEETING REVIEW Minnesota Timber Rattlesnake Report Speaker: Dr. Dan Keyler

Dr. Dan Keyler has been a MHS member for sixteen years and received a grant form the MHS to analyze the DNA of timber rattlesnakes in Minnesota in 1998. The last time he talked to the society about timber rattlesnakes was in 1993 when he and Barney Oldfield made a joint presentation. A lot has happened since then and we were happy to get the latest information from Dan.

Timber rattlesnakes historically have covered a large range over practically the entire United States. Glaciation helped define the range in the past and separated gene pools so it is possible that there are now three distinct morphs; Northeastern, Western and Southern varieties of timber rattlesnakes. The DNA work that he and others are doing will help answer some of the questions about how different these gene pools really are.

Timber rattlesnakes have historically been reported in at least 6 counties in southeastern Minnesota. They are almost certainly no longer found in Washington and Dakota counties and none were found in Wabasha county in 1998 despite the existence of some excellent habitat. Winona, Houston and Filmore counties probably still have considerable populations. Dan fOWld a gravid female at a place called Rattlesnake Crossing in Olmsted county in 1998. This was the first reported siting of one in that area since 1900.

The ideal habitat for timber rattlesnakes in MiImesota are high bluffs with southern exposures and exposed limestone and sandstone outcrops warmed by the sun. These areas are also popular with people seeking to build homes with views of the valleys below. This results in conflicts that the

snakes inevitably lose. Roads built to give access to these areas also take their toll on the snakes and other wildlife CroSSiIlg them. A reproductively viable population must contain 30 to 40 individuals including 4 to 5 adult females. Dan is afraid there are not many populations left that will be viable iII the long run. Many of the individuals seen now belong to renmant populations that are not big enough to be self-sustaining.

The cracks in the rock outcrops serve as hibernaculums for 3 to 5 snakes iII Minnesota. It is reported that hibernaculums of 25 to 30 aninlals are common in Virginia but this is not the case here. The snakes emerge from these cracks in early spring to bask and elevate their body temperature. The earliest that Dan has observed them in Minnesota is May 4.

Once they get up to operating temperature, their appetite kicks iII and they go in search of food. Their prey includes chipmunks, bats, 13 lined ground squirrels, voles and any other small mammals they can find. They are themselves prey to racers and hawks that are also out hunting.

As the sunmler heats up, they range further from their horne sites with the males covering larger expanses of territory than the females. On average, they travel in a radius of about one half mile from their horne site. Adults are not extremely active, eating only a few times each year and probably only shedding once.

In late fall, they return to the hibernaculurns to bask and get ready for seven months of hibernation. They do not eat in order to clean out their intestinal tracts so food will not decay inside them over the winter. September 23 is the latest date that Dan has observed them in Minnesota.

By Bruce Haig Recording Secretary

Mating occurs in late summer, the females carry the sperm over the winter and the eggs are fertilized in the spring. They can carry the sperm for several years and recently parthenogenesis has been reported but Dan is skeptical about this. The females bask in the spriIlg without eating as the embryos develop. They are very vulnerable at this stage and are easily killed by humans. There was a boWlly for rattlesnakes paid in Minnesota until 1986 and gravid females were especially desirable because the hunter would collect for the female and each of the young.

8 to 12 neonates are born alive during the second half of July into early September and stay with the mother for two weeks before disbursing. The young are born gray and begin to get their brown and golden colors after their first shed. Their venom is three times as potent as that of adults but is produced in much smaller quantities.

Females must be 7 to 8 years old before they can reproduce and produce young only once every 3 to 4 years. That means that at most they can produce 4 to 5 broods over their 25-year life spans. That's why a population requires 4 to 5 adult females to be viable in the long run.

In making field observations, Dan prefers to immobilize the snake's head and body in a clear Plexiglas tube. He takes the temperature immediately after capture, determines its sex, and weighs each animal on a spring scale. Blood is extracted for the DNA studies using a 22-gauge needle inserted into the caudal vein in the tail. The ratio of sexes is about even but females average about 30% smaller than males.

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

The Herpin' Lifestyle

Resolutions for the Herper

Being quite uninterested in the standard New Year's resolutions (lose weight, quit smoking, start an IRA), I thought I'd suggest some resolutions that you, the herper, would find useful. While these are not my own personal resolutions, they all begin "I resolve". This way you can repeat them out loud to yourself, perhaps while looking in a mirror.

1 resolve to maintain my herps in the cleanest possible conditions.

1 resolve to teach a child how to catch frogs (and clean cages).

1 resolve not to take any of my herps out in public, unless it is for a legitimate educational event.

1 resolve to get more geckos.

1 resolve to provide larger and better enclosures for my herps.

1 resolve to attend more educational "hands-on" types of events.

1 resolve to learn enough about my own animals, and herps in general, so that 1 do not make idiotic statements at educational events.

1 resolve to take my non-herping spouse or significant other on at least three herp-related vacations this year, so that he or she will be forced to share my interests.

1 resolve to subscribe to more herp magazines.

1 resolve to learn how to identify native amphibians and reptiles.

1 resolve to alienate my non­herping friends.

1 resolve not to be bitten by a venomous snake.

1 resolve to spend more night in the swamps this spring.

1 resolve not to think of people who keep fish as being weird.

1 resolve to get more turtles.

1 resolve not to be the cause of any anti-herp laws in my community.

1 resolve to take Fridays off of work so that 1 can go herping.

1 resolve to take my sick herps to the vet, rather than letting them die.

1 resolve to sell my captive produced herps at a decent price, rather than selling them cheap just to be rid of them.

1 resolve not to buy a T-shirt unless it has a herp on it

1 resolve to think of people that keep birds as being weird.

1 resolve to attempt to breed at least one unusual and spectacular species of herp.

1 resolve not to allow any of my animals to die as a result of my neglect.

1 resolve to use filtration for all of my aquatic turtle enclosures.

4

By Greg K vanbek

1 resolve to eat a cricket.

1 resolve to become more involved in the conservation of herps.

1 resolve not to collect herps from the wild, especially those that are being bred in captivity.

1 resolve not to keep my herps like what 1 see in most pet shops.

1 resolve not to order frogs legs in a restaurant.

1 resolve to let my herps bite me occasionally, if they wish.

1 resolve to prevent at least one idiot from buying a Burmese python as a first snake.

I resolve not to read any books that aren't about herps.

I resolve not to show novices how to find Bull or Western Hognose snakes.

1 resolve to get more treefrogs.

I resolve to learn brain casing.

I resolve to learn how to cultivate at least two species of invertebrates to use as a food source (fruit flies don't count).

1 resolve not to buy any herps unless 1 have previously researched their needs.

1 resolve not to complain about the way my herp society is run, unless 1 am prepared to help run it myself.

In the December issue of the Pacific Northwest Herpetological Society Newsletter, (Vol. 13, Isslie 12, p.8-9, it's in the libran), check it alit), Von Sheldon, a PNHS member-at-large, had some very interesting observations. The PNHS, like the Minnesota Herpetological Society, is a growing organization and is experiencing changes. To quote Von, "In all things change is inevitable and with change comes issues.H

"The society is a collection of individuals who have come together to pursue common interests and goals. The "Founding Fathers" had an interest in reptiles and their welfare in common The dawn of the organization saw vitality and commitment on the part of its members. Now PNHS is facing an uncomfortable middle age. Some reflect on the golden days of her youth and yeam for the vitality and common ground. Some see the core as iconoclastic and elitist. All are searching for unity in purpose and decry the apathy and disorganization that is perceived as being present."

"The upcoming year presents an opportunity for renewal and healing. We need to refocus our energies and have a clear sense of purpose and direction. The membership is as diverse as the creatures they represent and with this diversity comes a need for flexibility and creativity in our programing and services."

"Goals need to be clearly defined. What is the purpose of PNHS? It can be defined in three intertwined areas: education, protection of herps, and socialization/ support for its members. How can these goals be met?"

Your Name Here

Sound familiar? The election of the MHS Board of Directors will take place at the Annual Meeting (March 5,). Once again there is a definite lack of response from the membership to volunteer or even nominate someone else for a Board position. I have heard many reasons for not running for a Board position. There are just as many reasons to become a Board member.

I believe in the MHS, in its future and in the contributions it can make. Directors of the MHS have the opportunity to define the goals of the society and determine how they will be accomptished. All the MHS members have the opportunity of presenting their ideas for the club. Attend a Board meeting and let the Directors know what you think. I guarantee your ideas will be appreciated and discussed at length.

I like being a Board member, being involved in the decision making, standing up for issues I believe in, and feeling like I'm making a positive contribution. But I also like being challenged with new ideas, different points of view and new horizons to aim for. Without new people to share ideas with, the Board can easily fall into the trap of "the same old, same old" way of doing things. We need new imput to stay flexible and creative.

At the January Meeting, only one individual offered to run for a position but stated that, while he is able to fulfill the major duties of the position, he would not be able to attend all of the Board meetings. MHS Directors are expected to attend both the General and the Board meetings. After all, it is their opinions, reports and votes that are going to shape how the MHS will

5

MHS News/etfer Volume 19 Number 1

achieve its goals. Should that individual pursue a Board position? Why not? The Board is an elected group of 11 individuals that are supposed to work together to achieve the purpose and goals of our organization. If the membership is willing to vote a person in, it is up to that individual and the rest of the Board to create a system that can accommodate the change.

Study the financial reports in this issue. Do you see an area where you have questions about our expenses, a lack of spending in an area you are concerned about, or ideas for earning more money to support our projects?

Maybe you should consider running for a position. Take a look at the current ballot. The "your name here" slots are waiting to be filled. Maybe "your name here" doesn't look so bad, so intimidating; maybe it looks right.

-NancyHaig

MHS 1999 Ballot

President your name here

Vice President your name here John Levell

Recording Sec your name here

Membership Sec your name here

Treasurer your name here Marilyn Blasus

Newsletter Ed your name here NancyHaig

Past President George Richard (Sorry, there can be only one)

Member at large your name here Laurie Grassel Gordon Merck Janell Osborn Sarah Richard

MIlS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

Annual Financial Report

Minnesota Herpetological Society Treasurer' 5 Report for the Year Ending December 31,1998

Income: Membership 4,175.00 Library fine 15.00 Donations 1676.79 Raffle 393.75 T-shirt sales 911.00 Small item sales 33.50 Book sales 15.00 Rodent sales 6480.00 Renaissance Festival 2050.00 "White snake sale 1083.75 Mid\\'est 0.00 Holiday Banquet 65.00 Postage-prepaid 10.00 Photos 1199.00 Adoption /Placement 1043.00 CD interest 256.25 Refunds/ads 437.67 Occasionial p:a,l2:er sale ]32 QQ Total Income 19,984.60

Expenses: Newsletter printing 2982.00 Newsletter postage 815.00 Occasional papers 845.50 Other printing & postage 772.79 Program 921.50 Library books 203.11 Supplies 254.16 Refreshments 49.75 Book costs 0.00 Rodent costs 5,500.00 T-shirt costs 1521.00 White pages 0.00 Conservation / grants 7900.00 Service charge 0.00 Mugs 125.40 Bulk mail permit 85.00 Holiday Banquet 107.55 Returned check 19.00 DNRdisplay 708.75 Renfest 434.40 Adoption 158.00 Dbase software 127.33 Voice Mail 157.20 Hands on supplies 651.05 Student org. fee 30.00 Insurance 1200 QQ Total Expenses 25,568.49

Beginning balance Jan. 1 17,088.28 Add income 19,984.60 Subtract expense -25,568.49 Net (5,583.89) Ending balance 11,504.39 Add CD to checking 2500.00 Cash on Hand 50.00 Total 14,054.39 6

MRS Budget 1999

INCOME

membership library fines donations raffle-T-shirt sales small items sales book sales rodent sales white snake sale holiday banquet photos adoption fees mise

postage (ppd) Midwest conference renaissance festival

.i.!'ct~~s..t. .... .L<::Pl. . ..................... . sale

EXPENSE newsletter printing newsletter postage occasional papers other printing & postage program (speakers cost) library books adoption fund education/hands on renaissance festival supplies refreshments bulk mail voice mail insurance donation(grants) white pages &postage holiday banquet picnic conservation fund (10%) Midwest conference

actual actual

3,103.51 2982.00 778.90 815.00

845.50 1,255.73 772.79 1,109.71 921.50

295.45 203.11 76.42 158.00

274.54 651.05 129.10 434 .. 40 363.96 254.16 132.78 49.75

85.00 85.00 0.00 157.20

820.44 1,200.00 200.00 7,900.00

0.00 0.00 240.47 107.55

0.00 0.00 200.00 0.00

11,633.84 0.00

_~.~IT.J.~~_~h~Xg~ ............... __ ...... _ 8.20 19.00 -books 1,359.51 0.00 -rodents 4,026.30 5,500.00 -t-shirts 1,521.00 -mugs 121.95 125.40

mise 10.00 866.08 (neodeshas) 80.00 0.00

ITotaI Expense I 26,220.76 25,568.49

IIncome - expense = 112,603.69 (5,583.89)

budget 1999

3,500.00 0.00

350.00 375.00 375.00

25.00 0.00

6,000.00 1,000.00

400.00 800.00 500.00

0.00

2,000.00 300.00

0.00

3,200.00 900.00

0.00 400.00

1,200.00 250.00 500.00 650.00 500.00 400.00

0.00 100.00 260.00 600.00

0.00 400.00 400.00 100.00

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

6,000.00 0.00

250.00 0.00 0.00

15,610.00

(285.00)

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

M.H.S. BUSINESS January Board of Directors Meeting By Bruce Haig, Recording Secretary

Treasurer's Report of December 1998 Prepared by Marilyn Brooks Blasus

The MHS Board of Directors met January 9, at the st. Paul Campus Student Union. A quorum was present.

Sarah Richard presented the adoption committee report for 1998. There was a total <If 156 animals taken into the adoption program during the year, of which 68 were iguanas. 28 of the iguanas were adopted by MHS members and 40 were euthanized.

The Iowa Herpetological Society contributed part of the costs of publishing the latest occasional paper; A Checklist of Iowa Reptiles and Amphibians. They are included on the cover as co-sponsors of the paper.

The grants committee is soliciting applications for herpetological related grants to be distributed during 1999. All applications should be sent to Randy Blasus.

Volunteer awards for people that contributed their efforts during 1998 were discussed. It was decided to not use the usual mugs but you will have to wait until the March meeting to see what was selected. All committee chairpeople should get the lists of people and hours contributed to George Richard as soon as possible.

Beginning checkbook balance:

Income: Membership: Raffle Sales Rodent Sales Donations Adoption/ placement Misc. (occ.paper)

Total income:

Expense: Newsletter Misc. prt./post. Program Library Supplies Refreshments Sales costs Donation(TTUSA) Other ( occ paper) Other (ins) Misc

Total Expense: Net income/(loss)

Ending checkbook balance:

435.00 78.25 96.00

844.50 121.46 133.00 145.00

372.00 22.33

310.00 20.00 0.00 0.00

658.80 200.00 845.50 615.00 42.55

Presented and accepted: Membership Report, Recording Secretary Report and Treasurers Report. Funds allocated to unpaid expenses

Funds available

MRS Coming Events

15,237.36

1,853.21

3,086.18 (1,232.97)

14,004.39 659.68

13,344.71

Feb 5, 1999 MHS General Meeting. Great White Snake Sale & Photo Contest. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M, St. Paul Campus, 7:00p.m

Feb 6,1999 MHS Board of Directors Meeting. Student Union, U of M, St. Paul Campus, 7:00p.m.

Mar 5, 1998 Annual Minnesota Herpetological Society Meeting & General Election 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M, st. Paul Campus, 7:00p.m

Apr. 2, 199 MRS General Meeting,

Hands-On There are no Hands-On(s) scheduled at this time for January

Contact Sean Hewitt (612) 935-5845 for further information of Hands- On events.

7

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

8

MHS Nel1'sleller Volume 19 Number 1

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

For Sale: Classified ads are free to the membership. Deadline is the night of the general meeting to be included in the next newsletter. Contact Nancy Haig 434-8684 to leave ad or mail to: MHS Edit-or, Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St., SE, Mumeapolis, MN,55455

1.0.0= male, 0.1.0 = female, 0.0.1 = unsexed, cb = captive bred, 000 = or best offer, += times run. (ads are nul only 3x unless requested to continue.)

Geckos: 1.2.0 Lined Day Gecko PhelslIIlIa lineala; 1.1.0 Peacock Day Gecko Phelsllma qlladriocellala; 0.1.0 Gold Dust Day Gecko pilelsllma latiCllllda; 0.1.0 Leopard Gecko Ellblepilaris maclIlal'lls; 1.0.0 Flying Gecko PtycJlOZOOIl kuilli; 1.0.0 Skunk Gecko Gekko vittaills; 2.3.0 Micro land Geckos Slenodactyills sp. $15 I each. 0.0.2 Chinese Tiger Gecko GOllllirosalll'tlS liciltelljelderi $90. 0.0.12 Panther Gecko Paroedllra picills $20-50. Heather C Matson (612) 871-7334 Email- gecko@black­hole.com +++

Frozen Rabbits - all sizes. Prices very reasonable- pinkies to adults. Jim Daluge (612) 295-2818

1.1 Albino Prairie Kingsnakes, Normal Pattern, proven breeders '97 &'98. $65. Ea. I 120 pr., 1.0 adult Striped Prairie Kingsnake. $45., all three $140., 0.1 Black Pinesnake. '96, $60., 0.1 adult Striped Pacific Gopher Snake, $60., Prices negotiable, trades considered. Randy Blasus (612) 925-4237 +

Hatchling Corn Snakes. Amerethrystic $10., Normal $10., Snow $20., Ghost $25., also Adults, Normal $40., Snow $60., Breeding pair of Everglades Rat Snakes $100. Call Mark 481-0127+++

Veiled Chameleons hatchlings; Adult male Carpet Chameleon; assorted Leaf Tail Geckos; Albino Horned Frog A pair of Blairs Grey­banded Kingsnakes cb '97; Call or email for prices and more info. Vern or Laurie (612) 428-4625. grassel@gowebway.com

Boa & Cage. Common Boa, 6 yr old male. Cage- 8' x 4' x2' large front glass doors, will deliver nearby .$2001 boo Greg Nielsen (612) 479-6014 ++

Leopard Tortoise hatchlings $125.00 each. Call Jake at (507) 433-3006 ++

5 year old pair of breeding bullsnakes. Sherburne County stock. Both in top condition. $100. for pair, includes $30 (2 doz) of MHS large ratpups. Call Alan Kwong (651) 642-1702 or write to alankwong@juno.com

Frozen Rats- 30 medium, 24 large's and 5 jumbo's. Good temperment, very healthy. Feeding on 26° F temperatures. All for $60.00 (obo) Call Matthew Hennek (612) 421-0482+

Critter Cage- six section pressboard and plexiglass, hinged doors, 72'h x46'w x 28' d. four sections with lights. Call after 9:00am or leave message, must selll boo Lynn Peters 825-6767. ++

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

Freezer collection items for Bell Museum. Contact JoInt Moriarity (612) 476-4663

MHS Rodent Sales Mice Pinkies $7.00 dozen

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

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

$30.00 dz.

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

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

~-----------------------,

9

Proud Member M.H.S. G.G.A. I.G.S.

JODI L. AHERNS Ground Gecko freak

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

2946 Thomas Ave. N. Mp/s., MN 554/ I

612·588·9329

MHS Newsletter Volume 19 Number 1

I Support Our Supporters

Give your support to these businesses that supported MHS this year.

English Spot Dutch

Jim's Rabbit Shack "Where Spots Are Tops"

JIM DALUGE (612) 295-2818

8700 Jaber Ave. NE Monticello, MN 55362

Dr. Janel! Osborn, DVM "Herpetocultural Housecalls"

(612) 599-5476

Veteriniuy Medicine for Reptiles and Amphibians

P.O. Box 86 • Webster, MN 55088

Educational programs and displays for schools or special occasions.

612-652-2996

16800 Highway 55 Plymoulh, MN 55446

Phone 559-4004

4225 County Road 42 Savage, MN 55378

Phone 894·8740

Jfyt{( ~

Roseville Office 2803 Uncoln Drive - Roseville, MN 55113

George & Sarah Richard "M~ REALTY DruuKf [{EALrry"

24 Hours: 202-3567 Bus: (612) 6$.3760 Fax: (612) 639>6418 Web: - http1lmembers.aol.com'

GeoHard'MNrealtor.html Email: geohard@aol.com

,,~(iI

10

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

Classified Ads: All active members are allowed a classified ad, run free of charge as space permits. Ads may be run (3) consecutive months, alter which time they may be resubmitted. Corresponding members are allowed a complimentary business card advertisement monthly as space permits.

Display Ad Rates: Ad Size per Month % page $10.00 1/, page $20.00

full page $40.00 Business card advertisements may be purchased at $5.00 per ad, per month.

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

MHS Meeting Location

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA- ST. PAUL CAMPUS

,.. toHwy36

--111 LARPENTEUR to Snelling~

~ I;===::FO~LII<~E~LL:::::::J i II

BO~Lt~ D~j

~~ ~c

--, ~I ==~B~U~F~OR;D;:!:!====~1 r:.;::;--"'-Meetings are the 1 ,t Friday of the month.

..... N

Rm. 335 Borlaug Hall, U of M st. Paul Campus Start time: 7:00 p.m. MHS Voicemail: (612) 624 - 7065 [nternet: http://\\ww.onrampinc.netimhs/

Minnesota Herpetological Society Membership Application

New Renewal Membership # Type Check #

Name ________________________________________________________ _

Addre~ ____________________________________________________ __

City _____________________ State Zip _______ _

Phone ________________ email List in MHS Directory? __ Yes __ No

Herp related interests ______________________________________________________________ _

Active Memberships: ____ Sustaining ($60lyr) ____ Contributing ($30/yr) ___ Basic ($15lyr)

Corresponding Memberships: ____ Gold Commercial ($100/yr 2 full pg. ads) ___ Silver Commercial ($75/yr 2 1/2 pg.

ads) ____ Bronze Commercial ($50/yr 2 1/4pg ads) ____ Basic Commercial ($25lyr 2 Bus cards)

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

MINNESOTA HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY

BELL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 10 CHURCH STREET SE,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55455-0104

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

.-.. ~.~

+

+

POSTMASTER: DATED MATERIAL

+

+

Non-Profit Rate U.s. Postage

PAID Mpls,MN

Permit No. 2275