New book examines the life of modern-day adventurer Jordi Magraner
JACINTO ANTÓN - Barcelona - 31/10/2011
Going off in search of someone who has disappeared is a classic theme in travel and adventure stories, whether it be Captain Grant, Livingstone, Kurtz or Grabot. Spain's most original, circumspect and mythologizing literary traveler, Gabi Martínez - author of the splendid Sudd - goes after a real-life modern adventurer in his latest book, Sólo para gigantes (or, For giants only). Jordi Magraner was a Frenchman of Valencian origin who was born in Casablanca and ended up climbing the mountains of Hindu Kush in search of the Abominable Snowman, no less. He eventually fell in love with that scenery of greatness, legend and risk, and became every bit as fascinating himself as the creature he was after, before being ultimately murdered.
In Sólo para gigantes, Martínez sketches a portrait of Magraner, an extravagant individual of questionable character, who even comes across as odious at times. Displaying nothing short of obsession, Martínez explores every last aspect of his biography to the extent of exposing himself to some of the same dangers that Magraner faced, and which resulted in the latter getting his throat slit, along with an indigenous child who was his disciple, in a remote corner of Pakistan where the Taliban prospered. It is a dark, hypnotic book, the chronicle of a personal fascination that leads us to remote, majestic and Kipling-like locations in Nuristan, a hotbed of adventure throughout the centuries. The story is also a journey into the darkest and most remote corners of the human soul.
One rarely finds a writer who has been so affected by his own book. Martínez seems to literally have been sucked up by the story. He looks lean and tormented, as though he and Magraner had collided at some existential crossroads. "You talk about the Yeti and you get smiles," he says without the slightest hint of a smile, sitting in the lush garden of the cozy Hotel Alma in Barcelona. This is a very appropriate place to meet, and not just because of the plants, but also because "alma" is the way Russians refer to the Yeti or Abominable Snowman.
"Someone who goes off in search of the Yeti, or Barmanu as he is known in Hindi, is someone I like from the get-go. But when you see that this is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating life, you feel compelled to go deeper into the story, which is the kind of story that deserves to be told," he says. The book, which he describes as "a non-fiction novel," teeters on the edge of reality, but the author emphasizes that when you have such an incredible story as Magraner's to work with, "you don't need to make anything up."
Martínez notes that the process of writing all of his books has changed him in some way, but none as much as this one. Magraner had very dark, repulsive sides to him, and even a fascist streak. And then there is the sexual issue. "I was aware, while I was writing about him, that there were aspects of his personality that would be unsettling and reprehensible to the reader. But at the same time there are also many positive ones. For instance, his decisive contribution to opening a humanitarian aid route through the mountains thanks to his relationship with Ahmad Shah Massoud, the Lion of Panjshir, or his determination to defend the local traditions of the Kalash pagans, who are surrounded by Muslims. That is why I got into the story. It afforded an exceptional opportunity to explore the human condition, for better and for worse."
The writer underscores that Magraner was a man of action and a real character who had the privilege of experiencing a period of historical change in one of the most extraordinary spots in the world. He was someone who went off in search of a dream (although he did not find the Yeti) and who saw how international circumstances turned his piece of paradise into a living hell. It was simply not the same roaming the most abrupt areas of the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan in fatigues and infrared glasses during the 1980s, and to do so following 9/11.
Gabi Martínez follows Magraner's adventures up until his mysterious murder in 2002, at the age of 43. His dreams of greatness and pristine mountains, his interest in the natural sciences which derived into cryptozoology (his thesis on the Yeti is based on the work of Bernard Heuvelmans, author of Sur la piste des bêtes ignorées (or, On the trail of unknown beasts), his expeditions, his failed attempts at earning respectability in scientific circles, his progressive immersion into Kalash society, his knowledge of the land and the people, all made him someone who amounted to something in the area.
In Magraner's story, there is an increasing disenchantment and dulling of the senses. There were even accusations of pederasty. "It is one of the hypotheses for his murder, along with espionage or drug trafficking. I merely make note of it," says the writer. The crime was never solved. "The police investigation was pitiful. There is an interest in not having people know more about the case."
As for his own theories, Martínez says that, "Magraner was a bother. It was easy for some people to believe that the zoologist was in fact a spy. He was in the way, and he was disposed of."
http://www.elpais.com/articulo/english/Tracing/the/steps/of/yeti/hunter/elpepueng/20111031elpeng_3/Ten
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Birdwatcher only takes a year to track down world's most secretive species
 |
| A British birdwatcher is the first in the world to successfully find all 32 species of the pitta within a year (Picture: Geoff Robinson) |
Fred Attewill - 9th February, 2011
Chris Gooddie spent £30,000 on his marathon trip to find every type of the endangered pitta across the globe.
He left his £90,000-a-year job as a sales director to fulfil his dream and travelled 2,100km (1,300 miles) by air, canoe, truck, taxi and motorboat.
The 46-year-old suffered dysentery and stepped on a poisonous snake during his trek to track down the birds, which live in rainforests in south-east Asia, India, Australia and Africa.
‘I’m absolutely thrilled to have seen all the species and never dreamed it was possible, especially in such a short space of time,’ said Mr Gooddie.
‘When I told other birdwatchers what I was planning, they thought I was crazy.’
He added: ‘Often the only way to find them is to record them calling, then play it back to them, then they approach as they think you are a potential rival.’
Pittas, sometimes called jewel thrushes because of their striking plumage, are about 15cm-27cm long (6in-11in).
Mr Gooddie, from London, has written a book – The Jewel Hunter – about his journey.
http://www.metro.co.uk/news/855082-birdwatcher-only-takes-a-year-to-track-down-worlds-most-secretive-species
Sunday, August 22, 2010
'Dodo diary' tells of creature’s life as pet in Oxford
2:10pm Saturday 21st August 2010By Reg Little
It threatens to be the most explosive ‘lost diary’ find since the supposed discovery of Hitler’s journal sparked a worldwide frenzy 27 years ago.
But this one, snapped up in a city centre Oxfam shop for just 95p, will put to flight everything we have ever believed about the most famous of extinct species — the Dodo.
The diary, written 300 years ago by an Oxford science student, reveals there was a Dodo alive and well in the city during the 17th century.
The tatty and torn little book, that came close to being lost forever, also provides an hilarious account of how this kindly student managed to keep the last Dodo in England as a pet. Keeping it in secrecy, the young scientist faithfully recorded the Dodo’s every move, as well as the reactions of all his friends and acquaintances.
While recognising the bird’s rarity, the student had no idea that his pet might have been the last of its kind to walk upon the earth.
But now the whole remarkable story can be revealed, with the publication of a diary that really must be seen, to be disbelieved.
A Dodo at Oxford: The Unreliable Account of a Student and His Pet Dodo (Oxgarth Press £12.99) goes into the shops later this month.
With serious doubts about its authenticity being raised in literary and scientific circles, the man behind the find declares it will shake the theory of evolution — or at least the sides of his readers.
Michael Johnson, 44, is the co-author of two local guide books, The Heart of Oxford, published in 1999 and The Pocket Guide To Oxford, published earlier this year.
Ten years ago he founded his own publishing company, Oxgarth Press, in Chipping Norton, where he lives with his wife, Jane, and their nine-month-old daughter. But his main employment is as a book designer with the Oxford University Press.
So, he is a man who recognises literary gold when he sees it. He says the book that purports to be a diary of an un-named Oxford student, writing in 1683, re-emerged by complete chance, when he and his late friend Philip Atkins visited a charity shop.
“We came across it whilst browsing in the Oxfam bookshop on St Giles. It claims to be an Oxford student’s observations on what may well have been the last Dodo to have lived. Sensing something special, we promptly bought it for 95p,” he recalls.
That was back in March 2008. The assistant in the shop was able to throw a little light on how the diary ended up in the bargain book box nestled amongst cookery booklets and joke books.
A dirty brown paper package tied up with a bootlace had apparently been dropped off with old books by a man just a few days before. When the wrapping was removed, the little book was revealed. “It was battered, fusty, interleaved with a bizarre mixture of additional items, and without its binding,” says Mr Johnson.
Realising its potential worth, the two men placed tried in vain to find out who had donated the item.
“It is a mystery and a disappointment to us that we have failed to find any record of the diary in either the Bodleian Library in Oxford, or the archives of the Oxford University Press.”
By now Mr Johnson, respected OUP figure that he is, could detect my nervousness about this Dodo scoop of the century.
I pointed out that he was talking to a man who was halfway through a biography of Hugh Trevor-Roper, the great Oxford historian, who had ‘authenticated’ the Hitler diaries and spent the rest of his life regretting it. Even close friends had begun doubting the authenticity of the diary of this mystery student, who inherits a Dodo and keeps it in his rooms, admitted Mr Johnson.
But passing me a copy of A Dodo in Oxford he points to the fact that every page has been photographed and reprinted to enable readers to judge for themselves.
And what’s this on the cover? A glowing endorsement from Philip Pullman, the author of His Dark Materials.
“A masterpiece,” writes the great Oxford author, “full of wit and fantasy”. There is no doubt that, even if you decide to categorise A Dodo at Oxford as another literary hoax, it is altogether funnier, warmer and better written than the ‘diaries’ of Hitler, Mussolini and Jack the Ripper combined.
As you read the photocopied pages, you realise that fake or not, this is a real Oxford book that belongs to the tradition of Alice in Wonderland, with its mad characters, flights of fantasy and, of course, references to a forgotten Oxford.
The diary begins with the student coming to terms with the fact he has inherited a Dodo, following the death of its previous owner, a drunken Dutchman, who drowns in the river near Magdalen Bridge. Thus begins a saga that somehow marries the world of 17th-century science with Monty Python. Being a student of science he is soon undertaking experiments in his rooms, off the High Street.
“Dodo dropp’d like a stone, rebounded from the bed with great force, knocking Mr Tompkyns downe where he stood watching. Neither suffered great hurt, except in dignitie. Demonstration: Dodo lacks natural proclivite for flight.”
The pet Dodo does little to improve relations with his landlord. “Dodo has batter’d a hole through the wall to reach the pigeons and fowles in the next-door room. It would not stopp and was stuck halfway,” records the diary.
The diary entries are annotated by Mr Johnson and Mr Atkins, his co-editor, from Stonesfield, who died from cancer last year, aged 59.
Mr Atkins had formerly worked at the OUP, and the two men produced the guide books together.
Mr Johnson said his friend would never see the book published, but he treasured the fun they had working on their last project together.
“I hope people think that there is a chance that it could be a genuine diary from the 17th century.
“What interested Philip and I was the idea of trying to decide if it is fake. I love the idea of allowing people to form their own views about its authenticity. That is one aspect of the book we wanted to leave slightly open, because it plays a considerable element in the book, and how people read it.”
The pair put considerable effort into studying 17th-century type sizes and there are extensive notes clarifying the language used by the diarist, with explanations of 17th-century life in Oxford covering duelling, apothecaries, pub games and the real-life figures of the day, such as Christopher Wren.
http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/headlines/8345408._Dodo_diary__tells_of_creature___s_life_as_pet_in_Oxford/
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Photos: Mysterious fishes in ocean
11:05, April 15, 2010
A newly-published book titled "Fishes of the Open Ocean" takes readers on a journey to encounter mysterious fishes living in deep sea.
The six meter-long oarfish in the photo was grounded on Mexican beach.
By People's Daily Online
More at: http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90782/6951967.html
A newly-published book titled "Fishes of the Open Ocean" takes readers on a journey to encounter mysterious fishes living in deep sea.
(Xinhua Photo)
1.OarfishThe six meter-long oarfish in the photo was grounded on Mexican beach.
By People's Daily Online
More at: http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90782/6951967.html
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Coleraine author taps into fascination with mythical beast
Published Date:
16 February 2010
By David Rankin
A Coleraine author's blood-curdling new book on werewolves is taking America by storm.
Dr Bob Curran's Werewolves - A Field Guide to Shapeshifters, Lycanthropes and Man Beasts (New Page Books) reached No1 in the Independent Publishers List and sparked a new frenzy of interest in the mythical beast.
Over the past few months, Dr Curran has appeared on a number of US radio shows along with other supernatural experts to discuss our morbid fascination with werewolves.
In the past week The Wolfman - directed by Joe Johnston and starring Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt and Sir Anthony Hopkins - was released in cinemas, much to the delight of horror fans.
"The idea of the werewolf," writes Dr Curran, "may represent an amalgam of a number of deep human fears and perceptions - the separation from nature, the fear of the wild, a horror of cannibalism, and inherent awareness of the savagery and ferocity that often lies under the veneer of human 'civilization.'"
In his best selling book, Dr Curran examines the deep psychological roots that underlie the linking of human and beast.
He reveals that the modern sympathetic vision of a forlorn man-wolf transforming under the moon's rays are very different from, say, the 16th century perspective, when lycanthropy was considered an abominable offshoot of witchcraft and Devil worship. Or from further back, to the Dark Ages, when taking on the mantle of the wolf was seen as a sign of virility, and battle-hardened strength.
The notion of a werewolf as we understand these days appears to spring from a 13th century text entitled "Otia Imperia" (Resurrection of the Emperor) by Mediaeval chronicler Gervase of Tilbury.
Darker aspects of early werewolf ideas included cannibalism. The idea of a foreign 'Manbeast' was a common xenophobic attitude in Christian Europe. Tales told by travellers returning from far away lands would spread rumours of tribes in distant mountains who ate human flesh.
Dr Curran also notes that in medieval Western European tales the werewolf is often perceived as a noble creature. Later, as the West expanded, a more horrific set of tales emerge.
This generated a fear of werewolves that sparked prosecutions of alleged werewolves, particularly in 16th century France. Burning at the stake inevitably followed.
The paranoia and irrational beliefs of the day sit well with the gothic horrors of latter-day fiction, which Bob Curran also explores later in the book.
But there have also been real-life examples of manbeasts. Dr Curran catalogues examples of cannibals, feral children, the psychotically ill, and the Leopard Men cult of Western Africa back in the 1940s.
So why is there a cultural fascination with werewolves?
Dr Curran says that they represented freedom - "the thrill of the hunt together with the absence of the constraints of a more regimented culture.
"It was wildness; it was the exhilaration that civilized men imagined existed within the bestial world. It accorded hidden passions and concealed rages, as it shook off the very trappings of what made mankind 'civilized'."
http://www.colerainetimes.co.uk/news/Coleraine-author-taps-into-fascination.6075277.jp
(Submitted by Caty Bergman)
16 February 2010
By David Rankin
A Coleraine author's blood-curdling new book on werewolves is taking America by storm.
Dr Bob Curran's Werewolves - A Field Guide to Shapeshifters, Lycanthropes and Man Beasts (New Page Books) reached No1 in the Independent Publishers List and sparked a new frenzy of interest in the mythical beast.
Over the past few months, Dr Curran has appeared on a number of US radio shows along with other supernatural experts to discuss our morbid fascination with werewolves.
In the past week The Wolfman - directed by Joe Johnston and starring Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt and Sir Anthony Hopkins - was released in cinemas, much to the delight of horror fans.
"The idea of the werewolf," writes Dr Curran, "may represent an amalgam of a number of deep human fears and perceptions - the separation from nature, the fear of the wild, a horror of cannibalism, and inherent awareness of the savagery and ferocity that often lies under the veneer of human 'civilization.'"
In his best selling book, Dr Curran examines the deep psychological roots that underlie the linking of human and beast.
He reveals that the modern sympathetic vision of a forlorn man-wolf transforming under the moon's rays are very different from, say, the 16th century perspective, when lycanthropy was considered an abominable offshoot of witchcraft and Devil worship. Or from further back, to the Dark Ages, when taking on the mantle of the wolf was seen as a sign of virility, and battle-hardened strength.
The notion of a werewolf as we understand these days appears to spring from a 13th century text entitled "Otia Imperia" (Resurrection of the Emperor) by Mediaeval chronicler Gervase of Tilbury.
Darker aspects of early werewolf ideas included cannibalism. The idea of a foreign 'Manbeast' was a common xenophobic attitude in Christian Europe. Tales told by travellers returning from far away lands would spread rumours of tribes in distant mountains who ate human flesh.
Dr Curran also notes that in medieval Western European tales the werewolf is often perceived as a noble creature. Later, as the West expanded, a more horrific set of tales emerge.
This generated a fear of werewolves that sparked prosecutions of alleged werewolves, particularly in 16th century France. Burning at the stake inevitably followed.
The paranoia and irrational beliefs of the day sit well with the gothic horrors of latter-day fiction, which Bob Curran also explores later in the book.
But there have also been real-life examples of manbeasts. Dr Curran catalogues examples of cannibals, feral children, the psychotically ill, and the Leopard Men cult of Western Africa back in the 1940s.
So why is there a cultural fascination with werewolves?
Dr Curran says that they represented freedom - "the thrill of the hunt together with the absence of the constraints of a more regimented culture.
"It was wildness; it was the exhilaration that civilized men imagined existed within the bestial world. It accorded hidden passions and concealed rages, as it shook off the very trappings of what made mankind 'civilized'."
http://www.colerainetimes.co.uk/news/Coleraine-author-taps-into-fascination.6075277.jp
(Submitted by Caty Bergman)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A celebration of zoo history
Wednesday 2nd December 2009
DUDLEY Zoo staff have put pen to paper to write a double book celebrating the animals and buildings at the town landmark.
The two-in-one coffee table book gives a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes work at the zoo, as it outlines conservation and research at the Castle Hill site alongside the history of the world's largest collection of Tecton buildings.
‘Conservation and Research at DZG: Making Time for the World's Rarest Animals’ was penned by zoo Registrar and Research Co-ordinator Dr David Beeston, press officer Jill Hitchman and Native Species Co-ordinator Ian Hughes.
While Jill also wrote ‘Towers and Tectons: A View from the Hill’ - to coincide with the recent announcement that the Zoo's tecton animal enclosures and buildings have been recognised by the World Monuments Fund as being of international importance .
Zoo chairman, Councillor David Sparks, said: “This book is absolutely fantastic. The unique combination of zoology, geology, archaeology, botany, history and architecture is all there in this treasure trove.”
"Dudley Zoo and Castle is clearly positioned as a major resource for conservation and the book will be a firm foundation on which to develop this role into the 21st century.”
The 160 page book is also colourfully illustrated with stunning photographs of some of the zoo’s best loved animals and its famous architecture.
All proceeds from the book, which is priced £15 and available from the zoo gift shop, Waterstones or Borders, will go towards the zoo’s Madagascar Campaign to help lemurs in the wild.
And library users can also get their hands on a copy, as 13 libraries in the borough have agreed to stock the book.
For more information and to purchase the book online visit dudleyzoo.org.uk
http://www.halesowennews.co.uk/news/blackcountry/4771687.A_celebration_of_zoo_history/
DUDLEY Zoo staff have put pen to paper to write a double book celebrating the animals and buildings at the town landmark.
The two-in-one coffee table book gives a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes work at the zoo, as it outlines conservation and research at the Castle Hill site alongside the history of the world's largest collection of Tecton buildings.
‘Conservation and Research at DZG: Making Time for the World's Rarest Animals’ was penned by zoo Registrar and Research Co-ordinator Dr David Beeston, press officer Jill Hitchman and Native Species Co-ordinator Ian Hughes.
While Jill also wrote ‘Towers and Tectons: A View from the Hill’ - to coincide with the recent announcement that the Zoo's tecton animal enclosures and buildings have been recognised by the World Monuments Fund as being of international importance .
Zoo chairman, Councillor David Sparks, said: “This book is absolutely fantastic. The unique combination of zoology, geology, archaeology, botany, history and architecture is all there in this treasure trove.”
"Dudley Zoo and Castle is clearly positioned as a major resource for conservation and the book will be a firm foundation on which to develop this role into the 21st century.”
The 160 page book is also colourfully illustrated with stunning photographs of some of the zoo’s best loved animals and its famous architecture.
All proceeds from the book, which is priced £15 and available from the zoo gift shop, Waterstones or Borders, will go towards the zoo’s Madagascar Campaign to help lemurs in the wild.
And library users can also get their hands on a copy, as 13 libraries in the borough have agreed to stock the book.
For more information and to purchase the book online visit dudleyzoo.org.uk
http://www.halesowennews.co.uk/news/blackcountry/4771687.A_celebration_of_zoo_history/
A celebration of zoo history
Wednesday 2nd December 2009
DUDLEY Zoo staff have put pen to paper to write a double book celebrating the animals and buildings at the town landmark.
The two-in-one coffee table book gives a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes work at the zoo, as it outlines conservation and research at the Castle Hill site alongside the history of the world's largest collection of Tecton buildings.
‘Conservation and Research at DZG: Making Time for the World's Rarest Animals’ was penned by zoo Registrar and Research Co-ordinator Dr David Beeston, press officer Jill Hitchman and Native Species Co-ordinator Ian Hughes.
While Jill also wrote ‘Towers and Tectons: A View from the Hill’ - to coincide with the recent announcement that the Zoo's tecton animal enclosures and buildings have been recognised by the World Monuments Fund as being of international importance .
Zoo chairman, Councillor David Sparks, said: “This book is absolutely fantastic. The unique combination of zoology, geology, archaeology, botany, history and architecture is all there in this treasure trove.”
"Dudley Zoo and Castle is clearly positioned as a major resource for conservation and the book will be a firm foundation on which to develop this role into the 21st century.”
The 160 page book is also colourfully illustrated with stunning photographs of some of the zoo’s best loved animals and its famous architecture.
All proceeds from the book, which is priced £15 and available from the zoo gift shop, Waterstones or Borders, will go towards the zoo’s Madagascar Campaign to help lemurs in the wild.
And library users can also get their hands on a copy, as 13 libraries in the borough have agreed to stock the book.
For more information and to purchase the book online visit dudleyzoo.org.uk
http://www.halesowennews.co.uk/news/blackcountry/4771687.A_celebration_of_zoo_history/
DUDLEY Zoo staff have put pen to paper to write a double book celebrating the animals and buildings at the town landmark.
The two-in-one coffee table book gives a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes work at the zoo, as it outlines conservation and research at the Castle Hill site alongside the history of the world's largest collection of Tecton buildings.
‘Conservation and Research at DZG: Making Time for the World's Rarest Animals’ was penned by zoo Registrar and Research Co-ordinator Dr David Beeston, press officer Jill Hitchman and Native Species Co-ordinator Ian Hughes.
While Jill also wrote ‘Towers and Tectons: A View from the Hill’ - to coincide with the recent announcement that the Zoo's tecton animal enclosures and buildings have been recognised by the World Monuments Fund as being of international importance .
Zoo chairman, Councillor David Sparks, said: “This book is absolutely fantastic. The unique combination of zoology, geology, archaeology, botany, history and architecture is all there in this treasure trove.”
"Dudley Zoo and Castle is clearly positioned as a major resource for conservation and the book will be a firm foundation on which to develop this role into the 21st century.”
The 160 page book is also colourfully illustrated with stunning photographs of some of the zoo’s best loved animals and its famous architecture.
All proceeds from the book, which is priced £15 and available from the zoo gift shop, Waterstones or Borders, will go towards the zoo’s Madagascar Campaign to help lemurs in the wild.
And library users can also get their hands on a copy, as 13 libraries in the borough have agreed to stock the book.
For more information and to purchase the book online visit dudleyzoo.org.uk
http://www.halesowennews.co.uk/news/blackcountry/4771687.A_celebration_of_zoo_history/
Friday, September 25, 2009
HerpDigest.org: The Only Free Weekly Electronic Newsletter That Reports on The Latest News on Herpetological Conservation and Science
HerpDigest.org: The Only Free Weekly Electronic Newsletter That Reports on The Latest News on Herpetological Conservation and Science
Volume # 9 Issue #43- 09/25/09
Publisher/Editor- Allen Salzberg __________________________________________________________________
New Book
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages Over 300 full color photos and illustrations.
Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
And updated version of classic book on North American box turtles by C. Kenneth Dodd, but with information on husbandry.
To order see below
_______________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation, FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
________________________________________________________________________> Also Available
2010 HERP CALENDARS -
EITHER MAKE A DONATION OF $30.00 OR MORE AND GET A COPY OF THE CALENDAR OF YOUR CHOICE AS A THANK YOU GIFT FROM HERPDIGEST.
TURTLES, FROGS, SNAKES AND LIZARDS
Or order them individually
For THE CLASSIC 2010 FULL COLOR TURTLE CALENDAR
GO TO WWW.HERPARTS.COM (under book and calendars)TO ORDER AND SEE PHOTOS
NEW FULL COLOR FROG, SNAKE AND LIZARD CALENDARS also available...
GO TO WWW.HERPARTS.COM (under books and calendars)TO ORDER AND SEE PHOTOS.
The Frog, Snake and Lizard calendars are 18 month calendars starting at 9/09 so you can start using them now. Very limited supply. Imported from UK. Months and Days of Week in 5 languages, Even includes astrological dates.
_______________________________________________________________________
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
The Wildlife Conservation Society's Department of Herpetology at the Bronx Zoo invites qualified persons to apply for the Collections Manager position. The Bronx Zoo/Wildlife Conservation Society seeks an enthusiastic professional to join our 110-year-old Department of Herpetology! We are currently seeking a qualified individual with demonstrated interest and expertise in herpetology and management of living collections to become our Collections Manager.
Responsibilities include supervising the daily husbandry, enrichment, training, observation, and record keeping for animals in the collection in addition to assisting in the supervision of the maintenance and construction of exhibits or support services.
Minimum Qualifications: A minimum of five years of work experience in a zoological park or related institution. Preference will be given to candidates with a degree in zoological or biological sciences. Candidate must be motivated and energetic, possess management and strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to accept direction, and must be able to express ideas and work as part of a team for the betterment of the department. Individuals with a broad background in crocodilians, squamates (venomous and non-venomous), turtles, and amphibians will be seriously considered. The successful candidate also must possess a working knowledge of computers and basic programs and a valid driver's license.
Please apply online by October 16th at: https://sh.webhire.com/Public/907/
_______________________________________________________________________
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
Sam Stein, 9/23/09, The Huffington Post
Even as his party blocks Democratic attempts to expand health insurance for humans, a Republican congressman is trying to round up support for a bill that would provide a $3,500 annual tax deduction for Americans to pay for the medical care of their pets.
Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) sent out a "Dear Colleague" letter on Tuesday asking fellow members to co-sponsor his Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act, despite the upsurge in concern over the rising cost of health care coverage for actual humans.
"Dear Colleague," the letter reads.
"According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey, 63% of United States households own a pet. Indeed, the human-animal bond has been shown to have a positive effect upon people's emotional and physical well being. In families with children, pets help to create a nurturing environment and provide ample educational opportunities. For people in later stages of life, pets offer important companionship. No matter the age of the owner, pets have been shown to reduce stress, safeguard against depression, improve social skills, and even ease loss.
"In light of this, please join me in becoming a cosponsor to H.R. 3501, the Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act. If enacted, H.R. 3501 would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow an annual tax deduction of up to $3500 for qualified pet care expenses. Specifically, "qualified pet care expenses" would be defined as funds spent in connection with providing care (including veterinary care) for a legally owned, domesticated animal."
McCotter's proposed legislation has, not surprisingly, been praised by pet's rights advocates who say it will help provide proper care for animals and ensure that people suffering from the recession don't abandon their pets.
But considering the political context in which the bill is being pushed, it's hard not to scratch one's head. It has become a mantra within the GOP that health care reform legislation (for humans) being considered by Democrats would drain the government of money at a time when the deficit is already out of control. Moreover, as pointed out by the site, Blogging for Michigan, the congressman's legislation would result in many Americans having a greater financial incentive to provide health care coverage to their pets than to themselves.
The IRS only allows me to deduct medical and dental expenses that exceed more than 7.5% of my adjusted gross income. Here's an example from their website:
'Your adjusted gross income is $40,000, 7.5% of which is $3,000. You paid medical expenses of $2,500. You cannot deduct any of your medical expenses because they are not more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.'
But apparently I could deduct up to $3500 that I spend on my dog!
McCotter has defended the introduction of his legislation by arguing that Congress can, in fact, do more than "one thing at a time." Introduced at the end of July, the bill currently has no cosponsors.
______________________________________________________________________
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
by Jannette Parke, 9/21/09 NorthernStar.com. Australia
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell of Kenilworth took this amazing photograph of red-bellied snakes, just outside of her house yard.
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell says they've had plenty of snakes at their place, but she's never seen anything quite like this display of spring fever.
Two red-bellied blacks were so totally absorbed in their "special cuddle" last Saturday that they took no notice of Vicki or her rottweiler dog.
Vicki captured the image after her dog started barking and growling in a particular way.
"We've had lots of snakes around, mostly browns, but nothing ever like this," she said.
"They were mating right outside the house yard. I thought I've got to get a photo of this and raced up the hill to get my camera and they were still at it when I got back."
The keen photographer said her camera is not usually too far away.
"I'm a camera person; I've always joked that I put on my camera before I put on my undies!"
Just to confirm that it was a mating pair and not two males having a "biffo", The Gympie Times emailed the photo to snake-catcher and herpetologist John Keady.
John confirmed it was a male and female doing what comes naturally this time of year, not two males fighting for mating rights, which can look similar.
"Two fighting males entwine differently and stand up. You can see these two are mating because they're being very gentle, and he's holding her there. The female is on the left and the male is entwined around her."
John urges people to never attempt to catch, corner or kill a snake, as this is when 90 per cent of bites are inflicted.
"These are two beautiful, healthy specimens," John said of the subjects in Vicki's photo.
Photos of snakes at: http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2009/09/21/snakes-snapped-in-natural-behaviour/
_________________________________________________________________________
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
September 24th, 2009,Phys.org
Huachansu, a Chinese medicine that comes from the dried venom secreted by the skin glands of toads, has tolerable toxicity levels, even at doses eight times those normally administered, and may slow disease progression in some cancer patients, say researchers from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
The results from the Phase I clinical study, a collaborative research project between M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital in Shanghai, are reported in the online Early View feature of the journal Cancer. The study marks the first time a formal clinical trial has examined the relationship between huachansu dose and toxicity, although the drug is common in China and approved by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration.
Huachansu is widely used to treat patients with liver, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer at oncology clinics in China. Chinese clinical trials conducted since the 1970s have demonstrated the anti-cancer properties of huachansu, citing total response rates of 10 percent and 16 percent observed in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, respectively1,2.
"Studying traditional Chinese medicine such as huachansu is new to American research institutions, which have been skeptical and slow to adopt these complementary treatments. However, it is important to understand its potential role in treating cancer," says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., one of the paper's authors and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at M. D. Anderson. "We wanted to apply a Western medicine-based approach to explore the role of the toad venom compound in cancer patients and test if it is possible to deliver a more potent dose without raising toxicities or side effects."
The clinical trial was conducted at the Fudan University Cancer Hospital while M. D. Anderson provided training and ongoing consultation. The institutions collaboratively designed the trial that was approved by both institutional review boards. M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital signed a sister institution agreement in 2003, creating a framework for research, educational and clinical collaboration.
The typical dose of huachansu used in China is approximately 15 milliliters of drug per meter squared of body mass (mL/m2). In the study, 15 patients with stage III or IV hepatocellular (liver) carcinoma, nonsmall cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer received one of five dose levels ranging from 10 mL/ m2 up to 90 mL/m2 from January 2005 through July 2006. The treatment was repeated daily for 14 days followed by seven days off (one cycle). After two cycles, most patients received other treatments. Quality control methods were put in place to ensure huachansu of a uniform and consistent lot. _____________________________________________________________________
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
Republican Herald.com
by leslie Richardson (staff writer lrichardson@republicanherald.com)
Published: September 21, 2009
BARNESVILLE - People aren't the only ones who like to bask in the sun at area state parks.
Turtle basking habitat platforms were placed in the waters of Locust Lake and Tuscarora state parks last week so the turtles living there have a place to sun themselves.
Ben Page and Mike Swartz, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission habitat managers, Robin Tracey, environmental education specialist at both parks, and several volunteers built and placed the platforms in the water Wednesday.
The turtles will climb onto the platforms to bask in the sun as a means of thermal regulation.
Some turtles, like the painted, slider and diamondback varieties, will leave the water to dry out in the midday sun. They usually cling to vegetation or floating logs or lie on rocks. They use the sun to raise their body temperatures, since they cannot generate heat or regulate their own internal temperatures.
"They will be used mainly by painted turtles. We have a healthy population of them," Tracey said. "They need the platforms since we do not have enough natural structure for them to hang on to."
Four of the hemlock lumber and PVC pipe structures were pulled by canoe into the spillway pond at Locust Lake, while 10 went into the cove and dam areas at Tuscarora.
"They will act like a broad base, just like a floating log," Page said.
Tracey said the parks usually team up with the fish and boat commission each year on a project, sometimes involving fish, other times turtles.
"We put six of these in Tuscarora about 10 years ago, but we haven't seen them since the flood of 2006," Tracey said.
Once saturated, the platforms, anchored in the shallow water by concrete blocks tied with steel cable to the underside, will rise about one inch above the water.
Tracey said the platforms will make it easier for campers and others using the state parks to view the turtles.
"I am hoping for a late Indian summer so the turtles will make use of them before going underground," Tracey said. "They will be great for the kids to see."
Page said the platforms have about a 20-year life span, and similar structures used for pan fish that were placed in the water at Yellow Creek State Park in 1988 still exist.
"I really wanted these," Lew Williams, parks manager, said. "I am all for improving the habitat of our reptilian friends."
Williams said the fish and boat commission bore the cost of the project and similar projects like the fish structures installed last year at Tuscarora. _____________________________________________________________________________
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
WESH.COM, Orlando, September 22, 2009,
DELTONA, Fla. -- Snake owners say they love reptiles.
The slithery creatures have made local headlines lately after an 18-foot Burmese python was found in the back yard of an Apopka home.
But why do people make the potentially dangerous creatures as pets?
A group of snake owners in Deltona said they just can't get enough of the reptiles.
They're cold-blooded, sometimes poisonous, and depicted as evil, but Ron Doria, a white-collar medical sales director, can't get enough of his snakes.
"They have such a bad rap of being something so vicious and so violent. It's not like that. It's just, it's false," Doria said.
Doria keeps over 40 snakes in his Deltona home. He shares his passion with a friend, Brian Radenberg, who owns over 100 snakes. Radenberg made the news when the city of Deltona tried unsuccessfully last year to force him to get rid of his venomous snakes.
There's also Scott Quint, a software engineer who owns 35 snakes. Why do these men have such a fascination with the animals?
For Quint, it's the science.
"They're beautiful animals. I think, evolutionally speaking, they're one of the most unique animals," Quint said.
For Radenberg, it's the way they feel.
"They just kind of crawl around on you, and I don't know, they're comfortable," Radenberg said.
And for Doria, who owns rattlesnakes, it's the thrill.
"I like the risk, a little bit, of knowing we have something ... control something that doesn't want to be controlled," Doria said.
The men said because they have the proper caging, proper licenses, and the experience to handle snakes, it mitigates any danger. They get frustrated by the negative stereotypes assigned to snake owners.
"There's still a belief that, if you keep snakes, you're somehow different. You're weird or you're not like everybody else, and admittedly, there are plenty of people who can give that appearance, but there also are plenty who do not," Quint said.
While snake owners may love their snakes, do their snakes love them back?
"They won't show affection, of course, like a dog or a cat. They don't have a brain large enough to do that, and everything is basically instinct for a snake," Chaz Hanna said.
Hanna sells snakes. He believes they're popular pets simply because they're fascinating to watch and easy to care for.
For many people, a learned fear of snakes makes the thought of owning one repulsive.
To help ensure the safety of others, both Radenberg and Doria have posted warnings on the entrances to their homes stating that venomous snakes live inside.
That way, if emergency personnel such as firefighters or police ever have to enter, they'll be forewarned. __________________________________________________________________________
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
Monday, 21 Sep 2009, foxtampabay.com
DURANT - A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husbandsays he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm
A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husband says he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm _______________________________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation.
FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
For the last several weeks the aids of several prominent Republican Senators have been preparing a number of position papers on the positive effects of climate change for the upcoming G-20 summit. This one, the first to be released, only concerns sea turtles, but it gives us a preview of what is to come. These will be regarded as landmark documents in that they are the first attempt by the Republican leadership to show any interest at all in our nation's conservation concerns. A spokesperson for the Senators said this is just one of a number of up coming attempts by the Republicans to work with the Senate majority on topics they know will have the full support of Congress and the current administration. One key Democrat brushed this off as nonsense and saying that the Republicans were simply trying to divert attention away from the negative press they are now getting regarding their stand on health reform.
"In order to expand the Bush administration's effort to make people aware of the benefits of global warming we thought it might be informative to show how it will also benefit many species of wildlife, in this case marine turtles. Currently there is some misinformation going about that global warming is detrimental to sea turtles. Irrational fears, unfounded rumors and hysterical exaggerations set forth by various so-called environmental groups have no place in conservation. Its time to address this and to start thinking positive," the aids announced to a gathering of reporters at one of the Capital's local nightspots. A number of recognized national conservation organizations have already applauded today's announcement. Most sea turtles have remained on the Endangered Species Lists for decades, so it is important to recognize that they are now getting some long overdue help from a quite unexpected source." If we can't do away with the ESA then by God we have the power to fix it so these species are no longer endangered," one outspoken aid was overheard to say to a local TV reporter.
Ten reasons why Global Warming will be important to sea turtle conservation:
1) As primarily tropical and sub tropical species sea turtles will be able to expand marine forging areas as ocean temperatures increase. Changing oceanic currents and shifting frontal boundaries will allow all species to explore new warm water areas in their quest for food and nesting sites.
2) Rising sea levels will eliminate many of their lower elevation nesting sites, forcing the turtles to nest in fewer places, thus, making it easier to track and protect ALL remaining nesting rookeries.
3) Increased cyclone activity will displace all ages of marine turtles, often bringing them near shore, or even on shore where they can be seen, enjoyed and brought back to health by concerned people. The increased levels of awareness will help with regional conservation efforts for all species. A number of species will become less common making them more desirable must-see targets for amateur naturalists, this in turn will have a positive economic impact on coastal ecotourism as well as awareness for their conservation needs.
4) Melting of polar ice will increase the total volume of the world's seas diluting standing pollution loads to more acceptable levels.
5) Longer nesting seasons for sea turtles nesting on temperate beaches will increase egg production as turtles can produce additional clutches. Emerging hatchlings will no longer need to negotiate cool inshore waters in the fall.
6)Reduced need for migration, and less time spent on hostile "wintering" grounds will eliminate an important stress factor for nearly all species. Additionally, the hatchlings will not be required to travel as far to get back to the sea. Adults will not need to swim or crawl as far to nesting sites, there by not needing to store all those layers of body fat. Obesity is believed to be one of the major mortality factors for marine turtles. Trimmer turtles will he more efficient in their marine foraging.
7) Warmer ambient temperatures of nesting beaches will produce more female sea turtles per nest because of sex determination by incubation temperatures. Additional females in the population will quickly increase global stocks.
8) Competition with fisheries, and by catch issues will all but be eliminated as most coastal-based fishing centers will be underwater, commercial fishing activity will become a thing of the past.
9) Ghost crabs, coastal populations of raccoons and foxes and other nasty, land-based nest predators are expected to all but disappear as a result of drowned beach dunes and barrier island habitats. Permanently submerged beaches should eliminate the negative impact of four-wheel drive beach vehicles on the turtle's nests.
10) Rising sea levels will result in expanding foraging areas for coastal sea turtles and rooftops of abandoned buildings may provide predator free, island-like, nesting sites for several species. Continental shelf waters will cover larger areas of the earth's surface, while the pelagic waters will not decrease in size. This should be a tremendous benefit to inshore species and at the same time will not negatively affect any of the pelagic marine turtles.
A well-known radio talk-show host had but a single comment when he announced this over the air. "Like, HELLO; they are sea turtles, rising sea levels-- less land equals more open sea. DUHA! What's so complicated about that you eco-freaks? "
The prestigious international conservation organization of the Associated Sea turtle Scientists (ASS) followed up with a quick press release stating that this is a major first step in the right direction but a lot more important research remains to be done. Just last week the organization received a major four-year grant from a major oil company to further study the thermal regulatory needs of marine turtles. When asked for a comment, the company's VP remarked "We don't mind supporting good research, it the wasting of money by throwing it away at helping the turtles themselves that bothers us. In a decade when our profits are only up by 130% we need to watch our spending."
_____________________________________________________________________
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MORE ON the
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
by
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages, Over 300 full color photos and illustrations. Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
The natural follow-up to Dr. Dodd's now classic, "North American Box Turtles," A Complete Natural History,
With the latest information on N. American Box turtle natural history and conservation, and what was not in Dodd's book husbandry,
This is a beautiful book with excellent design, photos and wonderful drawings by David Killpack.
This book is a compilation of work of Carl Franklin and David Killpack's over 30 years of field experience,
An amazing resource for anyone interested in the natural history and husbandry of all species of North American Box turtles
OTHER BOOKS STILL AVAILABLE
TURTLES OF THE US & CANADA BY Carl Ernst and Jeffrey Lovich
List price $95.00 autographed - Not Autographed Reduced to $75.00-S&H for both
$ 7.50 shipping media mail.
THE ECOLOGY, EXPLOITATION AND CONSERVATION OF RIVER TURTLES
by Don Moll and Edward O. Moll. Considered by turtle scientists, and conservationists as one of the best books on turtle conservation. 420 pages; 90 halftones & 3 line illus.; 6-1/8 x 9-1/4; List price $80, now $30.00 plus $7.50 S&H.
THE AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES OF NY STATE
The first and only guide to the identification, distribution, natural history and conservation of the reptiles and amphibians of New York State. Paperback. By Gibbs, Breisch, Ducey, Johnson, Behler and Bothner. 422 pages. Over 55 color plates. Once $35.00, now $25.00 plus $6.00 S&H.
FOLLOWING THE WATER: A HYDROMANCER'S NOTEBOOK
New Book by MacArthur Genius Award winner David M. Caroll,
author of the now classics, "The Year of the Turtles," Self-Portrait with Turtles, and Swampwalker's Journal (3 Autographed Copies Left..) $24.00 plus $7.50 for S&H.
LIZARDS OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST, (Includes 5 Mexican States) edited by Lawrence Jones and Robert Lovich, Last of autographed copies on way from publisher. Still an amazing bargain at only $24.95 Plus $5.00 for shipping and handling in the U.S.
"THE FROGS AND TOADS OF NORTH AMERICA" is an amazing book. It contains: A CD of all 101 species found in US & Canada./Almost 400 great color photos 101 color location maps /In just 344 pages. Books this comprehensive usually go for at least $50.00.to &75.00. Or just $19.95 for the CD. But the publisher is offering it JUST FOR $19.95 Plus 7.50 S&H.
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Volume # 9 Issue #43- 09/25/09
Publisher/Editor- Allen Salzberg __________________________________________________________________
New Book
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages Over 300 full color photos and illustrations.
Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
And updated version of classic book on North American box turtles by C. Kenneth Dodd, but with information on husbandry.
To order see below
_______________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation, FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
________________________________________________________________________> Also Available
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For THE CLASSIC 2010 FULL COLOR TURTLE CALENDAR
GO TO WWW.HERPARTS.COM (under book and calendars)TO ORDER AND SEE PHOTOS
NEW FULL COLOR FROG, SNAKE AND LIZARD CALENDARS also available...
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The Frog, Snake and Lizard calendars are 18 month calendars starting at 9/09 so you can start using them now. Very limited supply. Imported from UK. Months and Days of Week in 5 languages, Even includes astrological dates.
_______________________________________________________________________
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
The Wildlife Conservation Society's Department of Herpetology at the Bronx Zoo invites qualified persons to apply for the Collections Manager position. The Bronx Zoo/Wildlife Conservation Society seeks an enthusiastic professional to join our 110-year-old Department of Herpetology! We are currently seeking a qualified individual with demonstrated interest and expertise in herpetology and management of living collections to become our Collections Manager.
Responsibilities include supervising the daily husbandry, enrichment, training, observation, and record keeping for animals in the collection in addition to assisting in the supervision of the maintenance and construction of exhibits or support services.
Minimum Qualifications: A minimum of five years of work experience in a zoological park or related institution. Preference will be given to candidates with a degree in zoological or biological sciences. Candidate must be motivated and energetic, possess management and strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to accept direction, and must be able to express ideas and work as part of a team for the betterment of the department. Individuals with a broad background in crocodilians, squamates (venomous and non-venomous), turtles, and amphibians will be seriously considered. The successful candidate also must possess a working knowledge of computers and basic programs and a valid driver's license.
Please apply online by October 16th at: https://sh.webhire.com/Public/907/
_______________________________________________________________________
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
Sam Stein, 9/23/09, The Huffington Post
Even as his party blocks Democratic attempts to expand health insurance for humans, a Republican congressman is trying to round up support for a bill that would provide a $3,500 annual tax deduction for Americans to pay for the medical care of their pets.
Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) sent out a "Dear Colleague" letter on Tuesday asking fellow members to co-sponsor his Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act, despite the upsurge in concern over the rising cost of health care coverage for actual humans.
"Dear Colleague," the letter reads.
"According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey, 63% of United States households own a pet. Indeed, the human-animal bond has been shown to have a positive effect upon people's emotional and physical well being. In families with children, pets help to create a nurturing environment and provide ample educational opportunities. For people in later stages of life, pets offer important companionship. No matter the age of the owner, pets have been shown to reduce stress, safeguard against depression, improve social skills, and even ease loss.
"In light of this, please join me in becoming a cosponsor to H.R. 3501, the Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act. If enacted, H.R. 3501 would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow an annual tax deduction of up to $3500 for qualified pet care expenses. Specifically, "qualified pet care expenses" would be defined as funds spent in connection with providing care (including veterinary care) for a legally owned, domesticated animal."
McCotter's proposed legislation has, not surprisingly, been praised by pet's rights advocates who say it will help provide proper care for animals and ensure that people suffering from the recession don't abandon their pets.
But considering the political context in which the bill is being pushed, it's hard not to scratch one's head. It has become a mantra within the GOP that health care reform legislation (for humans) being considered by Democrats would drain the government of money at a time when the deficit is already out of control. Moreover, as pointed out by the site, Blogging for Michigan, the congressman's legislation would result in many Americans having a greater financial incentive to provide health care coverage to their pets than to themselves.
The IRS only allows me to deduct medical and dental expenses that exceed more than 7.5% of my adjusted gross income. Here's an example from their website:
'Your adjusted gross income is $40,000, 7.5% of which is $3,000. You paid medical expenses of $2,500. You cannot deduct any of your medical expenses because they are not more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.'
But apparently I could deduct up to $3500 that I spend on my dog!
McCotter has defended the introduction of his legislation by arguing that Congress can, in fact, do more than "one thing at a time." Introduced at the end of July, the bill currently has no cosponsors.
______________________________________________________________________
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
by Jannette Parke, 9/21/09 NorthernStar.com. Australia
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell of Kenilworth took this amazing photograph of red-bellied snakes, just outside of her house yard.
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell says they've had plenty of snakes at their place, but she's never seen anything quite like this display of spring fever.
Two red-bellied blacks were so totally absorbed in their "special cuddle" last Saturday that they took no notice of Vicki or her rottweiler dog.
Vicki captured the image after her dog started barking and growling in a particular way.
"We've had lots of snakes around, mostly browns, but nothing ever like this," she said.
"They were mating right outside the house yard. I thought I've got to get a photo of this and raced up the hill to get my camera and they were still at it when I got back."
The keen photographer said her camera is not usually too far away.
"I'm a camera person; I've always joked that I put on my camera before I put on my undies!"
Just to confirm that it was a mating pair and not two males having a "biffo", The Gympie Times emailed the photo to snake-catcher and herpetologist John Keady.
John confirmed it was a male and female doing what comes naturally this time of year, not two males fighting for mating rights, which can look similar.
"Two fighting males entwine differently and stand up. You can see these two are mating because they're being very gentle, and he's holding her there. The female is on the left and the male is entwined around her."
John urges people to never attempt to catch, corner or kill a snake, as this is when 90 per cent of bites are inflicted.
"These are two beautiful, healthy specimens," John said of the subjects in Vicki's photo.
Photos of snakes at: http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2009/09/21/snakes-snapped-in-natural-behaviour/
_________________________________________________________________________
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
September 24th, 2009,Phys.org
Huachansu, a Chinese medicine that comes from the dried venom secreted by the skin glands of toads, has tolerable toxicity levels, even at doses eight times those normally administered, and may slow disease progression in some cancer patients, say researchers from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
The results from the Phase I clinical study, a collaborative research project between M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital in Shanghai, are reported in the online Early View feature of the journal Cancer. The study marks the first time a formal clinical trial has examined the relationship between huachansu dose and toxicity, although the drug is common in China and approved by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration.
Huachansu is widely used to treat patients with liver, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer at oncology clinics in China. Chinese clinical trials conducted since the 1970s have demonstrated the anti-cancer properties of huachansu, citing total response rates of 10 percent and 16 percent observed in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, respectively1,2.
"Studying traditional Chinese medicine such as huachansu is new to American research institutions, which have been skeptical and slow to adopt these complementary treatments. However, it is important to understand its potential role in treating cancer," says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., one of the paper's authors and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at M. D. Anderson. "We wanted to apply a Western medicine-based approach to explore the role of the toad venom compound in cancer patients and test if it is possible to deliver a more potent dose without raising toxicities or side effects."
The clinical trial was conducted at the Fudan University Cancer Hospital while M. D. Anderson provided training and ongoing consultation. The institutions collaboratively designed the trial that was approved by both institutional review boards. M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital signed a sister institution agreement in 2003, creating a framework for research, educational and clinical collaboration.
The typical dose of huachansu used in China is approximately 15 milliliters of drug per meter squared of body mass (mL/m2). In the study, 15 patients with stage III or IV hepatocellular (liver) carcinoma, nonsmall cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer received one of five dose levels ranging from 10 mL/ m2 up to 90 mL/m2 from January 2005 through July 2006. The treatment was repeated daily for 14 days followed by seven days off (one cycle). After two cycles, most patients received other treatments. Quality control methods were put in place to ensure huachansu of a uniform and consistent lot. _____________________________________________________________________
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
Republican Herald.com
by leslie Richardson (staff writer lrichardson@republicanherald.com)
Published: September 21, 2009
BARNESVILLE - People aren't the only ones who like to bask in the sun at area state parks.
Turtle basking habitat platforms were placed in the waters of Locust Lake and Tuscarora state parks last week so the turtles living there have a place to sun themselves.
Ben Page and Mike Swartz, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission habitat managers, Robin Tracey, environmental education specialist at both parks, and several volunteers built and placed the platforms in the water Wednesday.
The turtles will climb onto the platforms to bask in the sun as a means of thermal regulation.
Some turtles, like the painted, slider and diamondback varieties, will leave the water to dry out in the midday sun. They usually cling to vegetation or floating logs or lie on rocks. They use the sun to raise their body temperatures, since they cannot generate heat or regulate their own internal temperatures.
"They will be used mainly by painted turtles. We have a healthy population of them," Tracey said. "They need the platforms since we do not have enough natural structure for them to hang on to."
Four of the hemlock lumber and PVC pipe structures were pulled by canoe into the spillway pond at Locust Lake, while 10 went into the cove and dam areas at Tuscarora.
"They will act like a broad base, just like a floating log," Page said.
Tracey said the parks usually team up with the fish and boat commission each year on a project, sometimes involving fish, other times turtles.
"We put six of these in Tuscarora about 10 years ago, but we haven't seen them since the flood of 2006," Tracey said.
Once saturated, the platforms, anchored in the shallow water by concrete blocks tied with steel cable to the underside, will rise about one inch above the water.
Tracey said the platforms will make it easier for campers and others using the state parks to view the turtles.
"I am hoping for a late Indian summer so the turtles will make use of them before going underground," Tracey said. "They will be great for the kids to see."
Page said the platforms have about a 20-year life span, and similar structures used for pan fish that were placed in the water at Yellow Creek State Park in 1988 still exist.
"I really wanted these," Lew Williams, parks manager, said. "I am all for improving the habitat of our reptilian friends."
Williams said the fish and boat commission bore the cost of the project and similar projects like the fish structures installed last year at Tuscarora. _____________________________________________________________________________
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
WESH.COM, Orlando, September 22, 2009,
DELTONA, Fla. -- Snake owners say they love reptiles.
The slithery creatures have made local headlines lately after an 18-foot Burmese python was found in the back yard of an Apopka home.
But why do people make the potentially dangerous creatures as pets?
A group of snake owners in Deltona said they just can't get enough of the reptiles.
They're cold-blooded, sometimes poisonous, and depicted as evil, but Ron Doria, a white-collar medical sales director, can't get enough of his snakes.
"They have such a bad rap of being something so vicious and so violent. It's not like that. It's just, it's false," Doria said.
Doria keeps over 40 snakes in his Deltona home. He shares his passion with a friend, Brian Radenberg, who owns over 100 snakes. Radenberg made the news when the city of Deltona tried unsuccessfully last year to force him to get rid of his venomous snakes.
There's also Scott Quint, a software engineer who owns 35 snakes. Why do these men have such a fascination with the animals?
For Quint, it's the science.
"They're beautiful animals. I think, evolutionally speaking, they're one of the most unique animals," Quint said.
For Radenberg, it's the way they feel.
"They just kind of crawl around on you, and I don't know, they're comfortable," Radenberg said.
And for Doria, who owns rattlesnakes, it's the thrill.
"I like the risk, a little bit, of knowing we have something ... control something that doesn't want to be controlled," Doria said.
The men said because they have the proper caging, proper licenses, and the experience to handle snakes, it mitigates any danger. They get frustrated by the negative stereotypes assigned to snake owners.
"There's still a belief that, if you keep snakes, you're somehow different. You're weird or you're not like everybody else, and admittedly, there are plenty of people who can give that appearance, but there also are plenty who do not," Quint said.
While snake owners may love their snakes, do their snakes love them back?
"They won't show affection, of course, like a dog or a cat. They don't have a brain large enough to do that, and everything is basically instinct for a snake," Chaz Hanna said.
Hanna sells snakes. He believes they're popular pets simply because they're fascinating to watch and easy to care for.
For many people, a learned fear of snakes makes the thought of owning one repulsive.
To help ensure the safety of others, both Radenberg and Doria have posted warnings on the entrances to their homes stating that venomous snakes live inside.
That way, if emergency personnel such as firefighters or police ever have to enter, they'll be forewarned. __________________________________________________________________________
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
Monday, 21 Sep 2009, foxtampabay.com
DURANT - A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husbandsays he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm
A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husband says he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm _______________________________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation.
FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
For the last several weeks the aids of several prominent Republican Senators have been preparing a number of position papers on the positive effects of climate change for the upcoming G-20 summit. This one, the first to be released, only concerns sea turtles, but it gives us a preview of what is to come. These will be regarded as landmark documents in that they are the first attempt by the Republican leadership to show any interest at all in our nation's conservation concerns. A spokesperson for the Senators said this is just one of a number of up coming attempts by the Republicans to work with the Senate majority on topics they know will have the full support of Congress and the current administration. One key Democrat brushed this off as nonsense and saying that the Republicans were simply trying to divert attention away from the negative press they are now getting regarding their stand on health reform.
"In order to expand the Bush administration's effort to make people aware of the benefits of global warming we thought it might be informative to show how it will also benefit many species of wildlife, in this case marine turtles. Currently there is some misinformation going about that global warming is detrimental to sea turtles. Irrational fears, unfounded rumors and hysterical exaggerations set forth by various so-called environmental groups have no place in conservation. Its time to address this and to start thinking positive," the aids announced to a gathering of reporters at one of the Capital's local nightspots. A number of recognized national conservation organizations have already applauded today's announcement. Most sea turtles have remained on the Endangered Species Lists for decades, so it is important to recognize that they are now getting some long overdue help from a quite unexpected source." If we can't do away with the ESA then by God we have the power to fix it so these species are no longer endangered," one outspoken aid was overheard to say to a local TV reporter.
Ten reasons why Global Warming will be important to sea turtle conservation:
1) As primarily tropical and sub tropical species sea turtles will be able to expand marine forging areas as ocean temperatures increase. Changing oceanic currents and shifting frontal boundaries will allow all species to explore new warm water areas in their quest for food and nesting sites.
2) Rising sea levels will eliminate many of their lower elevation nesting sites, forcing the turtles to nest in fewer places, thus, making it easier to track and protect ALL remaining nesting rookeries.
3) Increased cyclone activity will displace all ages of marine turtles, often bringing them near shore, or even on shore where they can be seen, enjoyed and brought back to health by concerned people. The increased levels of awareness will help with regional conservation efforts for all species. A number of species will become less common making them more desirable must-see targets for amateur naturalists, this in turn will have a positive economic impact on coastal ecotourism as well as awareness for their conservation needs.
4) Melting of polar ice will increase the total volume of the world's seas diluting standing pollution loads to more acceptable levels.
5) Longer nesting seasons for sea turtles nesting on temperate beaches will increase egg production as turtles can produce additional clutches. Emerging hatchlings will no longer need to negotiate cool inshore waters in the fall.
6)Reduced need for migration, and less time spent on hostile "wintering" grounds will eliminate an important stress factor for nearly all species. Additionally, the hatchlings will not be required to travel as far to get back to the sea. Adults will not need to swim or crawl as far to nesting sites, there by not needing to store all those layers of body fat. Obesity is believed to be one of the major mortality factors for marine turtles. Trimmer turtles will he more efficient in their marine foraging.
7) Warmer ambient temperatures of nesting beaches will produce more female sea turtles per nest because of sex determination by incubation temperatures. Additional females in the population will quickly increase global stocks.
8) Competition with fisheries, and by catch issues will all but be eliminated as most coastal-based fishing centers will be underwater, commercial fishing activity will become a thing of the past.
9) Ghost crabs, coastal populations of raccoons and foxes and other nasty, land-based nest predators are expected to all but disappear as a result of drowned beach dunes and barrier island habitats. Permanently submerged beaches should eliminate the negative impact of four-wheel drive beach vehicles on the turtle's nests.
10) Rising sea levels will result in expanding foraging areas for coastal sea turtles and rooftops of abandoned buildings may provide predator free, island-like, nesting sites for several species. Continental shelf waters will cover larger areas of the earth's surface, while the pelagic waters will not decrease in size. This should be a tremendous benefit to inshore species and at the same time will not negatively affect any of the pelagic marine turtles.
A well-known radio talk-show host had but a single comment when he announced this over the air. "Like, HELLO; they are sea turtles, rising sea levels-- less land equals more open sea. DUHA! What's so complicated about that you eco-freaks? "
The prestigious international conservation organization of the Associated Sea turtle Scientists (ASS) followed up with a quick press release stating that this is a major first step in the right direction but a lot more important research remains to be done. Just last week the organization received a major four-year grant from a major oil company to further study the thermal regulatory needs of marine turtles. When asked for a comment, the company's VP remarked "We don't mind supporting good research, it the wasting of money by throwing it away at helping the turtles themselves that bothers us. In a decade when our profits are only up by 130% we need to watch our spending."
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MORE ON the
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
by
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages, Over 300 full color photos and illustrations. Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
The natural follow-up to Dr. Dodd's now classic, "North American Box Turtles," A Complete Natural History,
With the latest information on N. American Box turtle natural history and conservation, and what was not in Dodd's book husbandry,
This is a beautiful book with excellent design, photos and wonderful drawings by David Killpack.
This book is a compilation of work of Carl Franklin and David Killpack's over 30 years of field experience,
An amazing resource for anyone interested in the natural history and husbandry of all species of North American Box turtles
OTHER BOOKS STILL AVAILABLE
TURTLES OF THE US & CANADA BY Carl Ernst and Jeffrey Lovich
List price $95.00 autographed - Not Autographed Reduced to $75.00-S&H for both
$ 7.50 shipping media mail.
THE ECOLOGY, EXPLOITATION AND CONSERVATION OF RIVER TURTLES
by Don Moll and Edward O. Moll. Considered by turtle scientists, and conservationists as one of the best books on turtle conservation. 420 pages; 90 halftones & 3 line illus.; 6-1/8 x 9-1/4; List price $80, now $30.00 plus $7.50 S&H.
THE AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES OF NY STATE
The first and only guide to the identification, distribution, natural history and conservation of the reptiles and amphibians of New York State. Paperback. By Gibbs, Breisch, Ducey, Johnson, Behler and Bothner. 422 pages. Over 55 color plates. Once $35.00, now $25.00 plus $6.00 S&H.
FOLLOWING THE WATER: A HYDROMANCER'S NOTEBOOK
New Book by MacArthur Genius Award winner David M. Caroll,
author of the now classics, "The Year of the Turtles," Self-Portrait with Turtles, and Swampwalker's Journal (3 Autographed Copies Left..) $24.00 plus $7.50 for S&H.
LIZARDS OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST, (Includes 5 Mexican States) edited by Lawrence Jones and Robert Lovich, Last of autographed copies on way from publisher. Still an amazing bargain at only $24.95 Plus $5.00 for shipping and handling in the U.S.
"THE FROGS AND TOADS OF NORTH AMERICA" is an amazing book. It contains: A CD of all 101 species found in US & Canada./Almost 400 great color photos 101 color location maps /In just 344 pages. Books this comprehensive usually go for at least $50.00.to &75.00. Or just $19.95 for the CD. But the publisher is offering it JUST FOR $19.95 Plus 7.50 S&H.
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HerpDigest.org: The Only Free Weekly Electronic Newsletter That Reports on The Latest News on Herpetological Conservation and Science
HerpDigest.org: The Only Free Weekly Electronic Newsletter That Reports on The Latest News on Herpetological Conservation and Science
Volume # 9 Issue #43- 09/25/09
Publisher/Editor- Allen Salzberg __________________________________________________________________
New Book
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages Over 300 full color photos and illustrations.
Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
And updated version of classic book on North American box turtles by C. Kenneth Dodd, but with information on husbandry.
To order see below
_______________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation, FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
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1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
The Wildlife Conservation Society's Department of Herpetology at the Bronx Zoo invites qualified persons to apply for the Collections Manager position. The Bronx Zoo/Wildlife Conservation Society seeks an enthusiastic professional to join our 110-year-old Department of Herpetology! We are currently seeking a qualified individual with demonstrated interest and expertise in herpetology and management of living collections to become our Collections Manager.
Responsibilities include supervising the daily husbandry, enrichment, training, observation, and record keeping for animals in the collection in addition to assisting in the supervision of the maintenance and construction of exhibits or support services.
Minimum Qualifications: A minimum of five years of work experience in a zoological park or related institution. Preference will be given to candidates with a degree in zoological or biological sciences. Candidate must be motivated and energetic, possess management and strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to accept direction, and must be able to express ideas and work as part of a team for the betterment of the department. Individuals with a broad background in crocodilians, squamates (venomous and non-venomous), turtles, and amphibians will be seriously considered. The successful candidate also must possess a working knowledge of computers and basic programs and a valid driver's license.
Please apply online by October 16th at: https://sh.webhire.com/Public/907/
_______________________________________________________________________
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
Sam Stein, 9/23/09, The Huffington Post
Even as his party blocks Democratic attempts to expand health insurance for humans, a Republican congressman is trying to round up support for a bill that would provide a $3,500 annual tax deduction for Americans to pay for the medical care of their pets.
Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) sent out a "Dear Colleague" letter on Tuesday asking fellow members to co-sponsor his Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act, despite the upsurge in concern over the rising cost of health care coverage for actual humans.
"Dear Colleague," the letter reads.
"According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey, 63% of United States households own a pet. Indeed, the human-animal bond has been shown to have a positive effect upon people's emotional and physical well being. In families with children, pets help to create a nurturing environment and provide ample educational opportunities. For people in later stages of life, pets offer important companionship. No matter the age of the owner, pets have been shown to reduce stress, safeguard against depression, improve social skills, and even ease loss.
"In light of this, please join me in becoming a cosponsor to H.R. 3501, the Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act. If enacted, H.R. 3501 would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow an annual tax deduction of up to $3500 for qualified pet care expenses. Specifically, "qualified pet care expenses" would be defined as funds spent in connection with providing care (including veterinary care) for a legally owned, domesticated animal."
McCotter's proposed legislation has, not surprisingly, been praised by pet's rights advocates who say it will help provide proper care for animals and ensure that people suffering from the recession don't abandon their pets.
But considering the political context in which the bill is being pushed, it's hard not to scratch one's head. It has become a mantra within the GOP that health care reform legislation (for humans) being considered by Democrats would drain the government of money at a time when the deficit is already out of control. Moreover, as pointed out by the site, Blogging for Michigan, the congressman's legislation would result in many Americans having a greater financial incentive to provide health care coverage to their pets than to themselves.
The IRS only allows me to deduct medical and dental expenses that exceed more than 7.5% of my adjusted gross income. Here's an example from their website:
'Your adjusted gross income is $40,000, 7.5% of which is $3,000. You paid medical expenses of $2,500. You cannot deduct any of your medical expenses because they are not more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.'
But apparently I could deduct up to $3500 that I spend on my dog!
McCotter has defended the introduction of his legislation by arguing that Congress can, in fact, do more than "one thing at a time." Introduced at the end of July, the bill currently has no cosponsors.
______________________________________________________________________
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
by Jannette Parke, 9/21/09 NorthernStar.com. Australia
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell of Kenilworth took this amazing photograph of red-bellied snakes, just outside of her house yard.
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell says they've had plenty of snakes at their place, but she's never seen anything quite like this display of spring fever.
Two red-bellied blacks were so totally absorbed in their "special cuddle" last Saturday that they took no notice of Vicki or her rottweiler dog.
Vicki captured the image after her dog started barking and growling in a particular way.
"We've had lots of snakes around, mostly browns, but nothing ever like this," she said.
"They were mating right outside the house yard. I thought I've got to get a photo of this and raced up the hill to get my camera and they were still at it when I got back."
The keen photographer said her camera is not usually too far away.
"I'm a camera person; I've always joked that I put on my camera before I put on my undies!"
Just to confirm that it was a mating pair and not two males having a "biffo", The Gympie Times emailed the photo to snake-catcher and herpetologist John Keady.
John confirmed it was a male and female doing what comes naturally this time of year, not two males fighting for mating rights, which can look similar.
"Two fighting males entwine differently and stand up. You can see these two are mating because they're being very gentle, and he's holding her there. The female is on the left and the male is entwined around her."
John urges people to never attempt to catch, corner or kill a snake, as this is when 90 per cent of bites are inflicted.
"These are two beautiful, healthy specimens," John said of the subjects in Vicki's photo.
Photos of snakes at: http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2009/09/21/snakes-snapped-in-natural-behaviour/
_________________________________________________________________________
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
September 24th, 2009,Phys.org
Huachansu, a Chinese medicine that comes from the dried venom secreted by the skin glands of toads, has tolerable toxicity levels, even at doses eight times those normally administered, and may slow disease progression in some cancer patients, say researchers from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
The results from the Phase I clinical study, a collaborative research project between M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital in Shanghai, are reported in the online Early View feature of the journal Cancer. The study marks the first time a formal clinical trial has examined the relationship between huachansu dose and toxicity, although the drug is common in China and approved by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration.
Huachansu is widely used to treat patients with liver, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer at oncology clinics in China. Chinese clinical trials conducted since the 1970s have demonstrated the anti-cancer properties of huachansu, citing total response rates of 10 percent and 16 percent observed in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, respectively1,2.
"Studying traditional Chinese medicine such as huachansu is new to American research institutions, which have been skeptical and slow to adopt these complementary treatments. However, it is important to understand its potential role in treating cancer," says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., one of the paper's authors and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at M. D. Anderson. "We wanted to apply a Western medicine-based approach to explore the role of the toad venom compound in cancer patients and test if it is possible to deliver a more potent dose without raising toxicities or side effects."
The clinical trial was conducted at the Fudan University Cancer Hospital while M. D. Anderson provided training and ongoing consultation. The institutions collaboratively designed the trial that was approved by both institutional review boards. M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital signed a sister institution agreement in 2003, creating a framework for research, educational and clinical collaboration.
The typical dose of huachansu used in China is approximately 15 milliliters of drug per meter squared of body mass (mL/m2). In the study, 15 patients with stage III or IV hepatocellular (liver) carcinoma, nonsmall cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer received one of five dose levels ranging from 10 mL/ m2 up to 90 mL/m2 from January 2005 through July 2006. The treatment was repeated daily for 14 days followed by seven days off (one cycle). After two cycles, most patients received other treatments. Quality control methods were put in place to ensure huachansu of a uniform and consistent lot. _____________________________________________________________________
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
Republican Herald.com
by leslie Richardson (staff writer lrichardson@republicanherald.com)
Published: September 21, 2009
BARNESVILLE - People aren't the only ones who like to bask in the sun at area state parks.
Turtle basking habitat platforms were placed in the waters of Locust Lake and Tuscarora state parks last week so the turtles living there have a place to sun themselves.
Ben Page and Mike Swartz, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission habitat managers, Robin Tracey, environmental education specialist at both parks, and several volunteers built and placed the platforms in the water Wednesday.
The turtles will climb onto the platforms to bask in the sun as a means of thermal regulation.
Some turtles, like the painted, slider and diamondback varieties, will leave the water to dry out in the midday sun. They usually cling to vegetation or floating logs or lie on rocks. They use the sun to raise their body temperatures, since they cannot generate heat or regulate their own internal temperatures.
"They will be used mainly by painted turtles. We have a healthy population of them," Tracey said. "They need the platforms since we do not have enough natural structure for them to hang on to."
Four of the hemlock lumber and PVC pipe structures were pulled by canoe into the spillway pond at Locust Lake, while 10 went into the cove and dam areas at Tuscarora.
"They will act like a broad base, just like a floating log," Page said.
Tracey said the parks usually team up with the fish and boat commission each year on a project, sometimes involving fish, other times turtles.
"We put six of these in Tuscarora about 10 years ago, but we haven't seen them since the flood of 2006," Tracey said.
Once saturated, the platforms, anchored in the shallow water by concrete blocks tied with steel cable to the underside, will rise about one inch above the water.
Tracey said the platforms will make it easier for campers and others using the state parks to view the turtles.
"I am hoping for a late Indian summer so the turtles will make use of them before going underground," Tracey said. "They will be great for the kids to see."
Page said the platforms have about a 20-year life span, and similar structures used for pan fish that were placed in the water at Yellow Creek State Park in 1988 still exist.
"I really wanted these," Lew Williams, parks manager, said. "I am all for improving the habitat of our reptilian friends."
Williams said the fish and boat commission bore the cost of the project and similar projects like the fish structures installed last year at Tuscarora. _____________________________________________________________________________
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
WESH.COM, Orlando, September 22, 2009,
DELTONA, Fla. -- Snake owners say they love reptiles.
The slithery creatures have made local headlines lately after an 18-foot Burmese python was found in the back yard of an Apopka home.
But why do people make the potentially dangerous creatures as pets?
A group of snake owners in Deltona said they just can't get enough of the reptiles.
They're cold-blooded, sometimes poisonous, and depicted as evil, but Ron Doria, a white-collar medical sales director, can't get enough of his snakes.
"They have such a bad rap of being something so vicious and so violent. It's not like that. It's just, it's false," Doria said.
Doria keeps over 40 snakes in his Deltona home. He shares his passion with a friend, Brian Radenberg, who owns over 100 snakes. Radenberg made the news when the city of Deltona tried unsuccessfully last year to force him to get rid of his venomous snakes.
There's also Scott Quint, a software engineer who owns 35 snakes. Why do these men have such a fascination with the animals?
For Quint, it's the science.
"They're beautiful animals. I think, evolutionally speaking, they're one of the most unique animals," Quint said.
For Radenberg, it's the way they feel.
"They just kind of crawl around on you, and I don't know, they're comfortable," Radenberg said.
And for Doria, who owns rattlesnakes, it's the thrill.
"I like the risk, a little bit, of knowing we have something ... control something that doesn't want to be controlled," Doria said.
The men said because they have the proper caging, proper licenses, and the experience to handle snakes, it mitigates any danger. They get frustrated by the negative stereotypes assigned to snake owners.
"There's still a belief that, if you keep snakes, you're somehow different. You're weird or you're not like everybody else, and admittedly, there are plenty of people who can give that appearance, but there also are plenty who do not," Quint said.
While snake owners may love their snakes, do their snakes love them back?
"They won't show affection, of course, like a dog or a cat. They don't have a brain large enough to do that, and everything is basically instinct for a snake," Chaz Hanna said.
Hanna sells snakes. He believes they're popular pets simply because they're fascinating to watch and easy to care for.
For many people, a learned fear of snakes makes the thought of owning one repulsive.
To help ensure the safety of others, both Radenberg and Doria have posted warnings on the entrances to their homes stating that venomous snakes live inside.
That way, if emergency personnel such as firefighters or police ever have to enter, they'll be forewarned. __________________________________________________________________________
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
Monday, 21 Sep 2009, foxtampabay.com
DURANT - A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husbandsays he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm
A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husband says he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm _______________________________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation.
FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
For the last several weeks the aids of several prominent Republican Senators have been preparing a number of position papers on the positive effects of climate change for the upcoming G-20 summit. This one, the first to be released, only concerns sea turtles, but it gives us a preview of what is to come. These will be regarded as landmark documents in that they are the first attempt by the Republican leadership to show any interest at all in our nation's conservation concerns. A spokesperson for the Senators said this is just one of a number of up coming attempts by the Republicans to work with the Senate majority on topics they know will have the full support of Congress and the current administration. One key Democrat brushed this off as nonsense and saying that the Republicans were simply trying to divert attention away from the negative press they are now getting regarding their stand on health reform.
"In order to expand the Bush administration's effort to make people aware of the benefits of global warming we thought it might be informative to show how it will also benefit many species of wildlife, in this case marine turtles. Currently there is some misinformation going about that global warming is detrimental to sea turtles. Irrational fears, unfounded rumors and hysterical exaggerations set forth by various so-called environmental groups have no place in conservation. Its time to address this and to start thinking positive," the aids announced to a gathering of reporters at one of the Capital's local nightspots. A number of recognized national conservation organizations have already applauded today's announcement. Most sea turtles have remained on the Endangered Species Lists for decades, so it is important to recognize that they are now getting some long overdue help from a quite unexpected source." If we can't do away with the ESA then by God we have the power to fix it so these species are no longer endangered," one outspoken aid was overheard to say to a local TV reporter.
Ten reasons why Global Warming will be important to sea turtle conservation:
1) As primarily tropical and sub tropical species sea turtles will be able to expand marine forging areas as ocean temperatures increase. Changing oceanic currents and shifting frontal boundaries will allow all species to explore new warm water areas in their quest for food and nesting sites.
2) Rising sea levels will eliminate many of their lower elevation nesting sites, forcing the turtles to nest in fewer places, thus, making it easier to track and protect ALL remaining nesting rookeries.
3) Increased cyclone activity will displace all ages of marine turtles, often bringing them near shore, or even on shore where they can be seen, enjoyed and brought back to health by concerned people. The increased levels of awareness will help with regional conservation efforts for all species. A number of species will become less common making them more desirable must-see targets for amateur naturalists, this in turn will have a positive economic impact on coastal ecotourism as well as awareness for their conservation needs.
4) Melting of polar ice will increase the total volume of the world's seas diluting standing pollution loads to more acceptable levels.
5) Longer nesting seasons for sea turtles nesting on temperate beaches will increase egg production as turtles can produce additional clutches. Emerging hatchlings will no longer need to negotiate cool inshore waters in the fall.
6)Reduced need for migration, and less time spent on hostile "wintering" grounds will eliminate an important stress factor for nearly all species. Additionally, the hatchlings will not be required to travel as far to get back to the sea. Adults will not need to swim or crawl as far to nesting sites, there by not needing to store all those layers of body fat. Obesity is believed to be one of the major mortality factors for marine turtles. Trimmer turtles will he more efficient in their marine foraging.
7) Warmer ambient temperatures of nesting beaches will produce more female sea turtles per nest because of sex determination by incubation temperatures. Additional females in the population will quickly increase global stocks.
8) Competition with fisheries, and by catch issues will all but be eliminated as most coastal-based fishing centers will be underwater, commercial fishing activity will become a thing of the past.
9) Ghost crabs, coastal populations of raccoons and foxes and other nasty, land-based nest predators are expected to all but disappear as a result of drowned beach dunes and barrier island habitats. Permanently submerged beaches should eliminate the negative impact of four-wheel drive beach vehicles on the turtle's nests.
10) Rising sea levels will result in expanding foraging areas for coastal sea turtles and rooftops of abandoned buildings may provide predator free, island-like, nesting sites for several species. Continental shelf waters will cover larger areas of the earth's surface, while the pelagic waters will not decrease in size. This should be a tremendous benefit to inshore species and at the same time will not negatively affect any of the pelagic marine turtles.
A well-known radio talk-show host had but a single comment when he announced this over the air. "Like, HELLO; they are sea turtles, rising sea levels-- less land equals more open sea. DUHA! What's so complicated about that you eco-freaks? "
The prestigious international conservation organization of the Associated Sea turtle Scientists (ASS) followed up with a quick press release stating that this is a major first step in the right direction but a lot more important research remains to be done. Just last week the organization received a major four-year grant from a major oil company to further study the thermal regulatory needs of marine turtles. When asked for a comment, the company's VP remarked "We don't mind supporting good research, it the wasting of money by throwing it away at helping the turtles themselves that bothers us. In a decade when our profits are only up by 130% we need to watch our spending."
_____________________________________________________________________
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MORE ON the
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
by
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages, Over 300 full color photos and illustrations. Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
The natural follow-up to Dr. Dodd's now classic, "North American Box Turtles," A Complete Natural History,
With the latest information on N. American Box turtle natural history and conservation, and what was not in Dodd's book husbandry,
This is a beautiful book with excellent design, photos and wonderful drawings by David Killpack.
This book is a compilation of work of Carl Franklin and David Killpack's over 30 years of field experience,
An amazing resource for anyone interested in the natural history and husbandry of all species of North American Box turtles
OTHER BOOKS STILL AVAILABLE
TURTLES OF THE US & CANADA BY Carl Ernst and Jeffrey Lovich
List price $95.00 autographed - Not Autographed Reduced to $75.00-S&H for both
$ 7.50 shipping media mail.
THE ECOLOGY, EXPLOITATION AND CONSERVATION OF RIVER TURTLES
by Don Moll and Edward O. Moll. Considered by turtle scientists, and conservationists as one of the best books on turtle conservation. 420 pages; 90 halftones & 3 line illus.; 6-1/8 x 9-1/4; List price $80, now $30.00 plus $7.50 S&H.
THE AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES OF NY STATE
The first and only guide to the identification, distribution, natural history and conservation of the reptiles and amphibians of New York State. Paperback. By Gibbs, Breisch, Ducey, Johnson, Behler and Bothner. 422 pages. Over 55 color plates. Once $35.00, now $25.00 plus $6.00 S&H.
FOLLOWING THE WATER: A HYDROMANCER'S NOTEBOOK
New Book by MacArthur Genius Award winner David M. Caroll,
author of the now classics, "The Year of the Turtles," Self-Portrait with Turtles, and Swampwalker's Journal (3 Autographed Copies Left..) $24.00 plus $7.50 for S&H.
LIZARDS OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST, (Includes 5 Mexican States) edited by Lawrence Jones and Robert Lovich, Last of autographed copies on way from publisher. Still an amazing bargain at only $24.95 Plus $5.00 for shipping and handling in the U.S.
"THE FROGS AND TOADS OF NORTH AMERICA" is an amazing book. It contains: A CD of all 101 species found in US & Canada./Almost 400 great color photos 101 color location maps /In just 344 pages. Books this comprehensive usually go for at least $50.00.to &75.00. Or just $19.95 for the CD. But the publisher is offering it JUST FOR $19.95 Plus 7.50 S&H.
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Volume # 9 Issue #43- 09/25/09
Publisher/Editor- Allen Salzberg __________________________________________________________________
New Book
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
Carl J. Franklin, and David C. Killpack with foreword by C. Kenneth Dodd
Just published. 260 Pages Over 300 full color photos and illustrations.
Hardcover, Eco/Serpent's Tales
Only $49.95 plus $7.50 S&H, lowest price on net
Not even Amazon who are offering it for $59.95.
And updated version of classic book on North American box turtles by C. Kenneth Dodd, but with information on husbandry.
To order see below
_______________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation, FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
________________________________________________________________________> Also Available
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For THE CLASSIC 2010 FULL COLOR TURTLE CALENDAR
GO TO WWW.HERPARTS.COM (under book and calendars)TO ORDER AND SEE PHOTOS
NEW FULL COLOR FROG, SNAKE AND LIZARD CALENDARS also available...
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The Frog, Snake and Lizard calendars are 18 month calendars starting at 9/09 so you can start using them now. Very limited supply. Imported from UK. Months and Days of Week in 5 languages, Even includes astrological dates.
_______________________________________________________________________
1) Bronx Zoo Herpetology Department Collections Manager Position
The Wildlife Conservation Society's Department of Herpetology at the Bronx Zoo invites qualified persons to apply for the Collections Manager position. The Bronx Zoo/Wildlife Conservation Society seeks an enthusiastic professional to join our 110-year-old Department of Herpetology! We are currently seeking a qualified individual with demonstrated interest and expertise in herpetology and management of living collections to become our Collections Manager.
Responsibilities include supervising the daily husbandry, enrichment, training, observation, and record keeping for animals in the collection in addition to assisting in the supervision of the maintenance and construction of exhibits or support services.
Minimum Qualifications: A minimum of five years of work experience in a zoological park or related institution. Preference will be given to candidates with a degree in zoological or biological sciences. Candidate must be motivated and energetic, possess management and strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to accept direction, and must be able to express ideas and work as part of a team for the betterment of the department. Individuals with a broad background in crocodilians, squamates (venomous and non-venomous), turtles, and amphibians will be seriously considered. The successful candidate also must possess a working knowledge of computers and basic programs and a valid driver's license.
Please apply online by October 16th at: https://sh.webhire.com/Public/907/
_______________________________________________________________________
2) House GOPer Seeks Co-Sponsors For Pet Health Care Tax Benefit
Sam Stein, 9/23/09, The Huffington Post
Even as his party blocks Democratic attempts to expand health insurance for humans, a Republican congressman is trying to round up support for a bill that would provide a $3,500 annual tax deduction for Americans to pay for the medical care of their pets.
Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) sent out a "Dear Colleague" letter on Tuesday asking fellow members to co-sponsor his Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act, despite the upsurge in concern over the rising cost of health care coverage for actual humans.
"Dear Colleague," the letter reads.
"According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey, 63% of United States households own a pet. Indeed, the human-animal bond has been shown to have a positive effect upon people's emotional and physical well being. In families with children, pets help to create a nurturing environment and provide ample educational opportunities. For people in later stages of life, pets offer important companionship. No matter the age of the owner, pets have been shown to reduce stress, safeguard against depression, improve social skills, and even ease loss.
"In light of this, please join me in becoming a cosponsor to H.R. 3501, the Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years (HAPPY) Act. If enacted, H.R. 3501 would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow an annual tax deduction of up to $3500 for qualified pet care expenses. Specifically, "qualified pet care expenses" would be defined as funds spent in connection with providing care (including veterinary care) for a legally owned, domesticated animal."
McCotter's proposed legislation has, not surprisingly, been praised by pet's rights advocates who say it will help provide proper care for animals and ensure that people suffering from the recession don't abandon their pets.
But considering the political context in which the bill is being pushed, it's hard not to scratch one's head. It has become a mantra within the GOP that health care reform legislation (for humans) being considered by Democrats would drain the government of money at a time when the deficit is already out of control. Moreover, as pointed out by the site, Blogging for Michigan, the congressman's legislation would result in many Americans having a greater financial incentive to provide health care coverage to their pets than to themselves.
The IRS only allows me to deduct medical and dental expenses that exceed more than 7.5% of my adjusted gross income. Here's an example from their website:
'Your adjusted gross income is $40,000, 7.5% of which is $3,000. You paid medical expenses of $2,500. You cannot deduct any of your medical expenses because they are not more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.'
But apparently I could deduct up to $3500 that I spend on my dog!
McCotter has defended the introduction of his legislation by arguing that Congress can, in fact, do more than "one thing at a time." Introduced at the end of July, the bill currently has no cosponsors.
______________________________________________________________________
3) Snakes Not Shy About Sex
by Jannette Parke, 9/21/09 NorthernStar.com. Australia
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell of Kenilworth took this amazing photograph of red-bellied snakes, just outside of her house yard.
LOVE is in the air at the Rodwell's farm out Kenilworth way.
Vicki Rodwell says they've had plenty of snakes at their place, but she's never seen anything quite like this display of spring fever.
Two red-bellied blacks were so totally absorbed in their "special cuddle" last Saturday that they took no notice of Vicki or her rottweiler dog.
Vicki captured the image after her dog started barking and growling in a particular way.
"We've had lots of snakes around, mostly browns, but nothing ever like this," she said.
"They were mating right outside the house yard. I thought I've got to get a photo of this and raced up the hill to get my camera and they were still at it when I got back."
The keen photographer said her camera is not usually too far away.
"I'm a camera person; I've always joked that I put on my camera before I put on my undies!"
Just to confirm that it was a mating pair and not two males having a "biffo", The Gympie Times emailed the photo to snake-catcher and herpetologist John Keady.
John confirmed it was a male and female doing what comes naturally this time of year, not two males fighting for mating rights, which can look similar.
"Two fighting males entwine differently and stand up. You can see these two are mating because they're being very gentle, and he's holding her there. The female is on the left and the male is entwined around her."
John urges people to never attempt to catch, corner or kill a snake, as this is when 90 per cent of bites are inflicted.
"These are two beautiful, healthy specimens," John said of the subjects in Vicki's photo.
Photos of snakes at: http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2009/09/21/snakes-snapped-in-natural-behaviour/
_________________________________________________________________________
4) Study Examines Use Of Toad Venom In Cancer Treatment
September 24th, 2009,Phys.org
Huachansu, a Chinese medicine that comes from the dried venom secreted by the skin glands of toads, has tolerable toxicity levels, even at doses eight times those normally administered, and may slow disease progression in some cancer patients, say researchers from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
The results from the Phase I clinical study, a collaborative research project between M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital in Shanghai, are reported in the online Early View feature of the journal Cancer. The study marks the first time a formal clinical trial has examined the relationship between huachansu dose and toxicity, although the drug is common in China and approved by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration.
Huachansu is widely used to treat patients with liver, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer at oncology clinics in China. Chinese clinical trials conducted since the 1970s have demonstrated the anti-cancer properties of huachansu, citing total response rates of 10 percent and 16 percent observed in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, respectively1,2.
"Studying traditional Chinese medicine such as huachansu is new to American research institutions, which have been skeptical and slow to adopt these complementary treatments. However, it is important to understand its potential role in treating cancer," says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., one of the paper's authors and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at M. D. Anderson. "We wanted to apply a Western medicine-based approach to explore the role of the toad venom compound in cancer patients and test if it is possible to deliver a more potent dose without raising toxicities or side effects."
The clinical trial was conducted at the Fudan University Cancer Hospital while M. D. Anderson provided training and ongoing consultation. The institutions collaboratively designed the trial that was approved by both institutional review boards. M. D. Anderson and Fudan University Cancer Hospital signed a sister institution agreement in 2003, creating a framework for research, educational and clinical collaboration.
The typical dose of huachansu used in China is approximately 15 milliliters of drug per meter squared of body mass (mL/m2). In the study, 15 patients with stage III or IV hepatocellular (liver) carcinoma, nonsmall cell lung cancer or pancreatic cancer received one of five dose levels ranging from 10 mL/ m2 up to 90 mL/m2 from January 2005 through July 2006. The treatment was repeated daily for 14 days followed by seven days off (one cycle). After two cycles, most patients received other treatments. Quality control methods were put in place to ensure huachansu of a uniform and consistent lot. _____________________________________________________________________
5) Man-Made Turtle Platforms Float At State Parks
Republican Herald.com
by leslie Richardson (staff writer lrichardson@republicanherald.com)
Published: September 21, 2009
BARNESVILLE - People aren't the only ones who like to bask in the sun at area state parks.
Turtle basking habitat platforms were placed in the waters of Locust Lake and Tuscarora state parks last week so the turtles living there have a place to sun themselves.
Ben Page and Mike Swartz, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission habitat managers, Robin Tracey, environmental education specialist at both parks, and several volunteers built and placed the platforms in the water Wednesday.
The turtles will climb onto the platforms to bask in the sun as a means of thermal regulation.
Some turtles, like the painted, slider and diamondback varieties, will leave the water to dry out in the midday sun. They usually cling to vegetation or floating logs or lie on rocks. They use the sun to raise their body temperatures, since they cannot generate heat or regulate their own internal temperatures.
"They will be used mainly by painted turtles. We have a healthy population of them," Tracey said. "They need the platforms since we do not have enough natural structure for them to hang on to."
Four of the hemlock lumber and PVC pipe structures were pulled by canoe into the spillway pond at Locust Lake, while 10 went into the cove and dam areas at Tuscarora.
"They will act like a broad base, just like a floating log," Page said.
Tracey said the parks usually team up with the fish and boat commission each year on a project, sometimes involving fish, other times turtles.
"We put six of these in Tuscarora about 10 years ago, but we haven't seen them since the flood of 2006," Tracey said.
Once saturated, the platforms, anchored in the shallow water by concrete blocks tied with steel cable to the underside, will rise about one inch above the water.
Tracey said the platforms will make it easier for campers and others using the state parks to view the turtles.
"I am hoping for a late Indian summer so the turtles will make use of them before going underground," Tracey said. "They will be great for the kids to see."
Page said the platforms have about a 20-year life span, and similar structures used for pan fish that were placed in the water at Yellow Creek State Park in 1988 still exist.
"I really wanted these," Lew Williams, parks manager, said. "I am all for improving the habitat of our reptilian friends."
Williams said the fish and boat commission bore the cost of the project and similar projects like the fish structures installed last year at Tuscarora. _____________________________________________________________________________
6) Why Do People Make Snakes Pets? -Snake Lovers Say Reptiles Not Vicious Nor Violent
WESH.COM, Orlando, September 22, 2009,
DELTONA, Fla. -- Snake owners say they love reptiles.
The slithery creatures have made local headlines lately after an 18-foot Burmese python was found in the back yard of an Apopka home.
But why do people make the potentially dangerous creatures as pets?
A group of snake owners in Deltona said they just can't get enough of the reptiles.
They're cold-blooded, sometimes poisonous, and depicted as evil, but Ron Doria, a white-collar medical sales director, can't get enough of his snakes.
"They have such a bad rap of being something so vicious and so violent. It's not like that. It's just, it's false," Doria said.
Doria keeps over 40 snakes in his Deltona home. He shares his passion with a friend, Brian Radenberg, who owns over 100 snakes. Radenberg made the news when the city of Deltona tried unsuccessfully last year to force him to get rid of his venomous snakes.
There's also Scott Quint, a software engineer who owns 35 snakes. Why do these men have such a fascination with the animals?
For Quint, it's the science.
"They're beautiful animals. I think, evolutionally speaking, they're one of the most unique animals," Quint said.
For Radenberg, it's the way they feel.
"They just kind of crawl around on you, and I don't know, they're comfortable," Radenberg said.
And for Doria, who owns rattlesnakes, it's the thrill.
"I like the risk, a little bit, of knowing we have something ... control something that doesn't want to be controlled," Doria said.
The men said because they have the proper caging, proper licenses, and the experience to handle snakes, it mitigates any danger. They get frustrated by the negative stereotypes assigned to snake owners.
"There's still a belief that, if you keep snakes, you're somehow different. You're weird or you're not like everybody else, and admittedly, there are plenty of people who can give that appearance, but there also are plenty who do not," Quint said.
While snake owners may love their snakes, do their snakes love them back?
"They won't show affection, of course, like a dog or a cat. They don't have a brain large enough to do that, and everything is basically instinct for a snake," Chaz Hanna said.
Hanna sells snakes. He believes they're popular pets simply because they're fascinating to watch and easy to care for.
For many people, a learned fear of snakes makes the thought of owning one repulsive.
To help ensure the safety of others, both Radenberg and Doria have posted warnings on the entrances to their homes stating that venomous snakes live inside.
That way, if emergency personnel such as firefighters or police ever have to enter, they'll be forewarned. __________________________________________________________________________
7) Too Many Snakes To Catch Them All (As In Released Or Escaped Ex-Pets)
Monday, 21 Sep 2009, foxtampabay.com
DURANT - A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husbandsays he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm
A giant snake is on the loose in eastern Hillsborough County, but wildlife officials say they are not going after it.
They say so many people have dumped pet snakes, they don't have the resources to go after them all.
Carol St. Pierre discovered the 10-foot boa constrictor next her to home in Durant.
"We're seen snakes out here, but that was the biggest one I have ever seen," she said. "I think it's in the woods across the street," St. Pierre said.
Even though it has been a while since she saw the snake, she says she is still shaken up. News reports about potentially dangerous Burmese pythons showing up in the Tampa Bay area have made her feel even more uncomfortable about her close encounter with the scaly beast.
St. Pierre was walking across her yard, and thought she saw a pile of dirt. Then it hit her. The pile of dirt was alive, reptilian, and very big. As she ran into to her house the snake began slithering away. But before it disappeared into the dense underbrush, she snapped half a dozen photos of it.
After seeing the pictures, wildlife officials say it is a common boa, a pet that escaped, or was dumped.
Officials say they are usually not a threat to people, but pets can be another story.
"The main staple of their diet is small mammals," said Breanne Stripina with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "So any small mammals would be venerable, that would include small pets like dogs and cats."
Even though boas generally don't look for trouble, just knowing that the snake might come back gives St. Pierre the willies. Her husband says he isn't even fazed at all.
"If you don't go playing around with them, they usually leave you alone," he said.
If you have a snake , or other exotic pet you don't want any more, you can hand it over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission during one of its amnesty days -- no questions asked.
They are held at different locations around the state several times a year.
For a list of dates and locations: http://www.myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Nonnative_AmnestyDayEvents.htm _______________________________________________________________________
AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT
8) Conservative Republicans Suddenly Take A Strong Interest In Reptile Conservation.
FOX News Wire Service, Washington DC , 9/24/09.
For the last several weeks the aids of several prominent Republican Senators have been preparing a number of position papers on the positive effects of climate change for the upcoming G-20 summit. This one, the first to be released, only concerns sea turtles, but it gives us a preview of what is to come. These will be regarded as landmark documents in that they are the first attempt by the Republican leadership to show any interest at all in our nation's conservation concerns. A spokesperson for the Senators said this is just one of a number of up coming attempts by the Republicans to work with the Senate majority on topics they know will have the full support of Congress and the current administration. One key Democrat brushed this off as nonsense and saying that the Republicans were simply trying to divert attention away from the negative press they are now getting regarding their stand on health reform.
"In order to expand the Bush administration's effort to make people aware of the benefits of global warming we thought it might be informative to show how it will also benefit many species of wildlife, in this case marine turtles. Currently there is some misinformation going about that global warming is detrimental to sea turtles. Irrational fears, unfounded rumors and hysterical exaggerations set forth by various so-called environmental groups have no place in conservation. Its time to address this and to start thinking positive," the aids announced to a gathering of reporters at one of the Capital's local nightspots. A number of recognized national conservation organizations have already applauded today's announcement. Most sea turtles have remained on the Endangered Species Lists for decades, so it is important to recognize that they are now getting some long overdue help from a quite unexpected source." If we can't do away with the ESA then by God we have the power to fix it so these species are no longer endangered," one outspoken aid was overheard to say to a local TV reporter.
Ten reasons why Global Warming will be important to sea turtle conservation:
1) As primarily tropical and sub tropical species sea turtles will be able to expand marine forging areas as ocean temperatures increase. Changing oceanic currents and shifting frontal boundaries will allow all species to explore new warm water areas in their quest for food and nesting sites.
2) Rising sea levels will eliminate many of their lower elevation nesting sites, forcing the turtles to nest in fewer places, thus, making it easier to track and protect ALL remaining nesting rookeries.
3) Increased cyclone activity will displace all ages of marine turtles, often bringing them near shore, or even on shore where they can be seen, enjoyed and brought back to health by concerned people. The increased levels of awareness will help with regional conservation efforts for all species. A number of species will become less common making them more desirable must-see targets for amateur naturalists, this in turn will have a positive economic impact on coastal ecotourism as well as awareness for their conservation needs.
4) Melting of polar ice will increase the total volume of the world's seas diluting standing pollution loads to more acceptable levels.
5) Longer nesting seasons for sea turtles nesting on temperate beaches will increase egg production as turtles can produce additional clutches. Emerging hatchlings will no longer need to negotiate cool inshore waters in the fall.
6)Reduced need for migration, and less time spent on hostile "wintering" grounds will eliminate an important stress factor for nearly all species. Additionally, the hatchlings will not be required to travel as far to get back to the sea. Adults will not need to swim or crawl as far to nesting sites, there by not needing to store all those layers of body fat. Obesity is believed to be one of the major mortality factors for marine turtles. Trimmer turtles will he more efficient in their marine foraging.
7) Warmer ambient temperatures of nesting beaches will produce more female sea turtles per nest because of sex determination by incubation temperatures. Additional females in the population will quickly increase global stocks.
8) Competition with fisheries, and by catch issues will all but be eliminated as most coastal-based fishing centers will be underwater, commercial fishing activity will become a thing of the past.
9) Ghost crabs, coastal populations of raccoons and foxes and other nasty, land-based nest predators are expected to all but disappear as a result of drowned beach dunes and barrier island habitats. Permanently submerged beaches should eliminate the negative impact of four-wheel drive beach vehicles on the turtle's nests.
10) Rising sea levels will result in expanding foraging areas for coastal sea turtles and rooftops of abandoned buildings may provide predator free, island-like, nesting sites for several species. Continental shelf waters will cover larger areas of the earth's surface, while the pelagic waters will not decrease in size. This should be a tremendous benefit to inshore species and at the same time will not negatively affect any of the pelagic marine turtles.
A well-known radio talk-show host had but a single comment when he announced this over the air. "Like, HELLO; they are sea turtles, rising sea levels-- less land equals more open sea. DUHA! What's so complicated about that you eco-freaks? "
The prestigious international conservation organization of the Associated Sea turtle Scientists (ASS) followed up with a quick press release stating that this is a major first step in the right direction but a lot more important research remains to be done. Just last week the organization received a major four-year grant from a major oil company to further study the thermal regulatory needs of marine turtles. When asked for a comment, the company's VP remarked "We don't mind supporting good research, it the wasting of money by throwing it away at helping the turtles themselves that bothers us. In a decade when our profits are only up by 130% we need to watch our spending."
_____________________________________________________________________
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MORE ON the
COMPLETE NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLE
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This is a beautiful book with excellent design, photos and wonderful drawings by David Killpack.
This book is a compilation of work of Carl Franklin and David Killpack's over 30 years of field experience,
An amazing resource for anyone interested in the natural history and husbandry of all species of North American Box turtles
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THE AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES OF NY STATE
The first and only guide to the identification, distribution, natural history and conservation of the reptiles and amphibians of New York State. Paperback. By Gibbs, Breisch, Ducey, Johnson, Behler and Bothner. 422 pages. Over 55 color plates. Once $35.00, now $25.00 plus $6.00 S&H.
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