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= — B U L L E T I N = — o f t h e

C h i c a g o H e r p e t o l o g i c a l S o c i e t y

Volume 27, Number 11 November 1992

Sphaerodactylus difficilis is a species of gecko found on the island of Hispaniola and associated islets: a, Top of head; b, chin; c, side of head; d, middorsal scales; e, dorsal view showing color pattern. In this issue Janet K. Burns et al. report on a field study of the lizards of the Cayos Siete Hermanos, seven islets off the northern coast of Hispaniola. The drawing is taken from "Herpetology of Hispaniola" by Doris M. Cochran, 1941, U.S. National Museum Bulletin 177.

BULLETIN OF THE CHICAGO HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETY Volume 27, Number 11

November 1992

Lizards of the Cayos Siete Hermanos, Dominican Republic, Hispaniola . . . . Janet K. Bums, Carol A. Cunningham, Richard A. Dupuis, Marianne N. Trask, John S. TuUoch, Robert Powell, John S. Parmerlee, Jr., Keet L. Kopecky, and Martin L. JoUey 225

Combat Behavior by Two Male Western Fox Snakes, Elaphe vulpina vulpina (Baird and Girard), in Illinois , . . . . . Stephen L. Barten, D.V.M. 232

Report on the Michigan Nature Association's Copperbelly Water Snake Sanctuary Bertha Daubendiek 234 Building an Incubator—A Good Winter Project Steven E. Snow 235 HerPET-POURRI Ellin Beltz 238 N E W T L I N E Newt 240 Herpetology 1992 241 Advertisem*nts 243 The Tympanum S. Kudryavtsev and S. Mamet; Jodi Paulsen; Roger Carter 246 Unofficial Minutes of the CHS Board Meeting, October 9,1992 247 Herp-Acrostic Mike Dloogatch 248

EDITORS Michael A. Dloogatch Joan F. Moore John C. Murphy Copy editor: JillHorwich

CHS OFFICERS 1992 Jack Schoenfelder, President John C. Murphy, Vice-President Ralph Shepstone, Treasurer Stacy Miller, Recording Secretary Brian Jones, Corresponding Secretary Michael A. Dloogatch, Publications Secretary Steve Spitzer, Membership Secretary Ron Humbert, Sergeant-at-Arms Ben Entwisle, Member-at-Large Gary Fogel, Member-at-Large Tony Janowski, Member-at-Large Claus Sutor, Member-at-Large

The Chicago Herpetolf^cal Society is a nonprofit organiza­tion incorporated under the laws of the state of Illinois. Its purposes are education, conservation and the advancement of herpetology. Meetings are announced in this publication, and are normally held at 7:30 P.M . , the last Wednesday of each month.

Membership in the CHS includes a subscription to the Bulletin. Annual dues are: Individual Membership, S17,50; Family Mem­bership, $20,00; Sustaining Membership, S25.00; Contributing Membership, $100.00; Institutional Membership, $30.00. Remit­tance must be made in U.S. funds. Subscribers outside the U.S. must add $12.00 for postage. Send membership dues or address changes to: Chicago Herpetological Society, Membership Secre­tary, 2001 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614. Publications are sent to U.S. members via third class bulk mail; the post office does not forward such mail, even if a special request is made to forward magazines.

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The BULLETIN of the Chicago Herpetological Society (ISSN 0009-3564) is published monthly by the Chicago Herpetological Society. Copyright 1992.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27( 1J):225-232, 1992

Lizards of the Cayos Siete Hermanos, Dominican Republic, Hispaniola Janet K. Burns''^ Carol A. Cunningham', Richard A. Dupuis', Marianne N , Trask', Joh» S. Tulloch',

Robert Powell'*, John S. Parmerlee, Jr.', Keet L. Kopecky^ and Martin L. Jolley'' The Cayos Siete Hermanos (Figure 1), part of Monte

Cristi National Park (Hoppe, 1989), consist of seven small satellite islands (keys) off the northwestern coast of Monte Cristi Province, Dominican Republic, on the island of Hispan­iola. The keys range in size from < 0.02 km^ (Muertos) to nearly 0.15 km^ (Tercero), and are situated from ~ 5.0 km (Tororu) to - 13.8 km (Arenas) from the nearest main island coastline.

Reports of lizards from these keys are based on a collec­tion by A. J. Poole and Watson Perrygo in 1929 (U. S. Nation­al Museum - USNM), and on materials in the Albert Schwartz Field Series (ASFS), now in the University of Kan­sas Museum of Natural History (UKMNH), which were collected during the 1960s. Pertinent references may be found in Schwartz (1968), Schwartz and Thomas (1975), Schwartz et al. (1978), Henderson and Schwartz (1984), Hen­derson et al. (1984), and Schwartz and Henderson (1988, 1991). All but two species (Aristelliger lar and Celestus costatus) are also known to inhabit the dry western reaches of the Valle de Cibao near the city of Monte Cristi. From a base camp established and maintained by North Caribbean Research on Tororu, we visited all seven keys 10-13 March 1992 with the goals of evaluating the status of populations on these islands and of establishing a preliminaiy data set on some aspects of natural history. Comparisons with the saurian fauna on a coastal island (Isla Cabras) and the adja­cent Hispaniolan main island are also provided. In order to minimize impact on island populations, only a small number

of voucher specimens were collected; those have been depos­ited in the Bobby Witcher Memorial Collection at Avila College (BWMC 04827-93).

Wetmore and Swales (1931) described the keys, but condi­tions apparently have changed in the intervening years. Although vegetation patterns vary somewhat from island to island (Figure 2), five common habitats are found on most of the keys: 1) all islands have extensive, exposed sandy areas, including the beaches and interior depressions on Ratas and Monte Grande; 2) high tide limits, typically characterized by portulaca, Sesuvium portulacastrum, represent a zone of intergradation between beaches and scrub; 3) short scrub, varying from open (Monte Chico) to very dense (Ratas), usually a mixture of grasses (including Cenchrus and Distichlis, dominant in some regions of several keys), prickly-pear, Opuntia (very extensive on Monte Chico and Tororu), and honeysuckle-like Stigmaphyllon (especially on Muertos and Tororu), with occasional invasions \y^Aloe vera (Tororii), Canavalia maritima (several keys), and small shrubs (to < 1 m) (several keys); 4) arborescent scrub, predominately

Acacia (to > 2 m), but occasionally invaded by other shrubs; and 5) thorny scrub of various forms (including Pithecellobi-um), occasionally very dense (Ratas and Tercero). In addi­tion, 6) arborescent sea grapes (Coccoloba uvifera) are very dense and represent the dominant vegetation on Monte Grande; and 7) Pileocereus polygonus cactus is present as a single clump on Tercero.

General conditions are hot and extremely xeric (means

40 80 120 160 KM. I I- ,1., I I I I I I I I —

0 25 — I —

50 — I 1

75 100 Ml. Figure 1. The Cayos Siete Hermanos and Isla Cabras, Monte Cristi Province, Dominican Republic.

1 Department of Natural Sciences, Avila College, Kansas City, MO 64145 2 Department of Biology, Longview Community College, Lee's Summit, MO 64081 3 BEST Prep, Unwcisity of Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64110 • Corresponding author.

r 226

227

26.4°C and 677.5 mm, respectively; Salcedo et al., 1983). No permanent water is available, but central depressions on Ratas and Monte Grande appeared capable of holding water temporarily during the rainy season. Except for the base camp from which we worked, occasional short-term camps of local fishermen represent the only human habitation.

We found seven species of lizards, one new to the archi­pelago, (eight had been reported previously) in five genera and five families, variously distributed on the seven keys (Table 1). Only Arenas, the second smallest key and most distant from the main island, is apparently without lizards. We provide the first report of Celestus costatus from the Siete Hermanos (from Tororii), and the first records ofAnolis distichus dominicensis from Monte Chico and Tercero and Aristelliger lar from Monte Chico; but failed to find previously reported populations of Aristelliger lar and Celestus stenurus rugpsus on Monte Grande, and Sphaerodactylus difficilis typhlopous on three keys. We also provide the first reports from Isla Cabras oiAnolis distichus dominicensis, A. olssoni olssoni, and A. whitemani.

We examined stomach contents of specimens collected to evaluate food habits (Table 2). Arthropodan items were identified to order (rarely to family), and volumes of all contents determined using methods of Milstead (1957). Importance values were calculated as in Powell et al. (1990). Although sample sizes were small, results indicated that all lizards established on these islands are dietary generalists. Ameiva chrysolaema regularis (Teiidae) (Figure 3). This teiid was collected on Monte Chico and Muertos, and observed on Monte Grande, Tercero, and Tororu. Previous reports by Schwartz and Thomas (1975) and Schwartz and Henderson (1988) listed aU but Monte Grande (however, a single speci­men is in the UKMNH). Uncommon on Tororu, this lizard was frequently encountered on the other keys. Principally found in woody scrub, lizards were noticeably less common in denser low scrub (where Leiocephalus sp. were more numer­

ous). On Muertos, aggregations were noted around fishing camps, where discarded garbage concentrated arthropods, which in turn (along with the garbage itself) apparently at­tracted the Ameiva. Only on Tercero did we find convincing evidence that the species funrtioned as a beach dweller. Tracks with unmistakable tail-drags were found in exposed sandy regions, including the beaches down to the high tide mark. The species was locally common on Isla Cabras (see below), and was frequently encountered in adjacent regions of the main island. Stomach contents indicated that^l. chryso­laema are opportunistic feeders. Schell et al. (in press) re­ported similar findings in a population from Barahona. The high prevalence of roaches (Dictyoptera) was probably the result of the association of these lizards with human debris. Plant material was identifiable as human refuse. Nematodes were oxyuroids, Cyrtosomum sp., common parasites of many saurian hosts (Baker, 1987). Anolis distichus dominicensis (Polychridae). We found these small anoles commonly in trees and arboraceous scrub on Monte Chico and Tercero. Schwartz and Henderson (1991) indicated the presence of the species in the keys, but the scale of their map is insufficient to identify a particular key (al­though it may represent Monte Chico). The species was very common in woody vegetation on Isla Cabras (see below), but rarely encountered (but more frequently thany4. whitemani) in dry scrub east and south of Monte Cristi on the main island. Stomach contents were dominated by ants, but the presence of four other arthropodan orders in this small sam­ple indicates the species' willingness to consume other items of suitable size. Anolis whitemani (Polychridae) (Figure 3). These xeric-adapted cybotoid anoles were found only on Monte Grande, where they were uncommon in arboraceous sea grape, con­centrated largely on the leeward side of the island. Anolis cybotes had been reported from this key (Schwartz et al., 1978; Schwartz and Henderson, 1988), but Schwartz and Henderson (1991) list onlyy4. whitemani from the Siete Her-

Table 1. Species of lizards recorded from the Cayos Siete Hermanos: 1) Previously reported records, 2) records obtained in the course of this study (those marked with an asterisk represent records for which no vouchers were collected). The question mark indicates an uncertain record; see text.

Species Arenas Monte Chico Monte Grande

Cayo Muertos Ratas Tercero Tororu

Ameiva chrysolaema 1,2 2* 1,2 1, 2* 1, 2* Anolis distichus 1(?), 2 2 Anolis whitemani 1,2 Aristelliger lar 2 1 Celestus costatus 2 Celestus stenurus 1 2 Leiocephalus personatus 1, 2 Leiocephalus schreibersii 1,2 1, 2 1, 2 1, 2 Sphaerodactylus difficilis 1 1 1

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Table 2. Stomach contents of lizards from the Cayos Siete Hermanos. Each entry contains four components. Entries in the first line are listed as a / b / c, where a = number of ingested items; b = volume of ingested items in mm'; and c = frequency of occurrence (number of stomachs in which the item was found). The figure given in the second line represents the importance value of that item in the diet of the species indicated, with larger numbers indicating more significant items. Importance values are not comparable from species to species.

Stomach Contents Species Ameiva

chrysolaema n = 3

Anolis distichis n = 3 '

Anolis whitemani

n = 3 Aristelliger

lar n = 5*

Celestus costatus n = 1

Leiocephalus personatus

n = 5* Leiocephalus schreibersii

n = 22 Arachnida, Araneae - 1 / 0.010 / 1

0.74 2 / 0.005 / 2

0.26 2 / 0.005 / 1

0.20 - 3 / 0.018 / 3

0.27 18 / 0.065 / 10

Arachm'da, other : • • • • - 3 / 0.010 / 3 0.04

Coleoptera 4 / 0.045 / 2 0.30

4 / 0.005 / 1 0.67

4 / 0.018 / 3 0.53

7 / 0.070 / 2 0.73

- 9 / 0.025 /4 0.41

107 / 0.220 / 16 0.48

: Coteoptera^ immature 3 / 0.003 / 1 0.13

- ::̂ ;a:/:b:oi3:/2i:;;:: 17 / 0.053 / 8 0.12

Dictyoptera , •

20 / 0.380 / 3 1.10

- - 2 / 0.025 / 2 0.35

2 / 0.020 / 1 0.73

1 / 0.(K)3 / I 0.07

13 / 0.090 / 8 0.15

Diptera : v : 4 7 0 M 3 / 2 :: :v;;':V':vo,2ir;:;::'.v;;

17 / 0.018 / 3 :;:rv:: 0.06

Hemiptera - - - 2 / 0.050 / 1 0.32 - - 10 / 0.105 /3

0.11

hom*optcra - - :;i/;o:03«/i •217 0.1(X)79:-

Hymenoptera, Formicidac - 14 / 0.003 / 1

1.06 IS / 0.023 / 3

0.89 - - 59 / 0.018 / 4

0.97 230 / 0.178 / 16

0.69 Hymenoptera, other - 9 / 0.028 / 6

-om: Isoptera - - - - - - 5 / 0.015 / 2 0.03

Lepidoptera r - : • i ; / t i . 020 / l : ; 0.17-

5 / 0.070 / 3 0.07

I-epidoptera, immature 1 / 0.060 / 1 0.18 - 11 / 0.010 / 2

0.57 - - 3 / 0.035 / 2

0.33 10 / 0.268 / 5

0.23 Neuroptera - •::'::̂ ;:l̂ :̂:"-::v:v:v..V-, 270 .030 /1 :

0.03 Odonata - - 1 / 0.003 / 1

0.14 - - - -

Orthoptcra - 1 / 0.005 / 1 0.52

1 y 0.005 / 1 0.16

:;5;:/0;103/:3v:^^ 0,78 r;:,:

1 7 / 0 . 1 7 5 / 1 3 ,,.,v,:o.24''''̂ "';'-

Crustacea, Deeapoda - - - 1 / 0.110 / 1 0.42

- - -

Crustacea, Isopoda - 11 /0.030 / 4 0.07

Unidentified arthropodan materials

# / 0.010 / 1 0.09 - - - - - # / 0.018 / 4

0.04 Lizard skin # / 0.005 / i

0.01 Nematoda 30 / 0.003 / 1

0.60 - - - 3 / 0.003 / 1 0.86

- 6 / 0.003 / 1 0.01

Grit # / 0.040 / 1 0.13

- # / 0.005 / 1 0.09 ;::;;::;;;;:;;;(X27:::::::;;̂ ^

::#::/0.005/:2-; ;-v-;;;:::o,ii;;:::v:-:

# / 0 . 0 2 0 / I I 0.09

Plant materials # / 0.210 / 2 0.24

- - # / 0.010 / 1 0.11

# / 0.220 / 1 1.14

# / 0.013 / 4 0.23

# / 0.113 / 10 0.14

• One stomach was empty. # Missing values where appropriate (e.g., numbers of plant material or grit).

229

E . F . Figure 3. Lizards of the Cayos Siete Hermanos: A.) Subadult male Ameiva chrysolaema regularis from Cayo Muertos; B.) Adult male Anolis whitemani from Cayo Monte Grande; C.) Adult male Aristelliger lar from Cayo Monte Chico; D.) Adult male Celestus costatus from Cayo Tororu; E.) Adult male Leiocephalus personatus scalaris from Cayo Monte Chico; F.) Adult male Leiocephalus schreibersii schreibersii from Cayo Ratas. Photographs by J. S. Parmerlee, Jr., and R. Powell.

230

manos. Treated asA. whitemani, but unassigned subspecifi-cally, by Schwartz (1980), the relationships of these anoles within the cybotes group (and the systematic status of this particular population) are still uncertain and will be addressed elsewhere. The species was well-represented on Isla Cabras (see below), but rarely encountered in xeric scrub in adjacent regions of the main island. The presence of seven arthropodan orders in stomach contents indicated thatv4. whitemani is a generalist/opportunist. Carr et al. (1989) reported similar results in a population from the Llanos de Azua. Aristelliger lar (Gekkonidae) (Figure 3). We collected this gecko only on Monte Chico. Five individuals were found on and in a dead mangrove within a deeply shaded clump of trees near the northeastern shore. Two others were discov­ered at a very exposed site at the high tide limit under a log next to a prickly pear patch. A small clump o{Acacia was ca. 10 m away. The species had been previously reported (Schwartz and Thomas, 1975; Schwartz et al., 1978; Schwartz and Henderson, 1988) from Monte Grande, where the exten­sive arboraceous sea grapes appeared to provide suitable habitat. We did not find the species on Isla Cabras, nor did Schwartz and Henderson (1991) show any known localities on adjacent regions of the main island. The origin of these populations is open to speculation, and &mce Aristelliger species are often difficult to distinguish morphologically (R. I. Crombie, pers. comm.), consideration must be given to the possibility that these specimens represent y4. hechti, and were introduced to the Cayos Siete Hermanos from the Turks and Caicos islands. Six arthropodan orders, including, somewhat surprisingly, a fiddler crab (Crustacea, Deeapoda), were represented in stomach contents of these lizards. Plant mate­rial, consisting of seeds, were relatively inconsequential, although Schwartz and Henderson (1991) listed only seeds (and no animal material) found in feces. Celestas costatus (Anguidae) (Figure 3). This species has not been recorded previously from the islands nor from immedi­ately adjacent regions of Hispaniola (Schwartz and Hender­son, 1991). Subspecific diagnosis was inconclusive. These usually mesophilic lizards are often found under surface debris. We captured a single specimen feeding on melon pulp in short scrub near the base camp on Tororu. Roaches and plant material (melon scraps) were predominant among the contents of this single stomach. These reflect the area and activity of the specimen when it was captured. Nematodes y/CK Physalopteroides sp. (Thubnareinae). Celestus stenurus rugosus (Anguidae). Schwartz and Thomas (1975) (as Diploglossus stenurus rugosus) and Schwartz and Henderson (1988,1991) included references to this species on Monte Grande, where the leaf litter beneath arboraceous sea grapes appeared to provide suitable habitat. We did not find evidence of this species on Monte Grande; nor did we find specimens on Isla Cabras or in adjacent regions on the main island, although Schwartz and Henderson (1991) noted sever­al records east of Monte Cristi. Leiocephalus personatus scalaris (Tropiduridae) (Figure 3). Although very common on adjacent regions of the main

island and present on Isla Cabras, this species was found only on Monte Chico, from which it had been reported previously by Schwartz and Thomas (1975) and Schwartz and Henderson (1988). These lizards were very common in all available habitats, except beaches. Their absence from keys on which L. s. schreibersii was found (the two species are found sympat-rically on the main island) suggests competitive exclusion may be operative on these small islands, where limited resources may be unable to support populations of two closely-related forms. Schwartz (1968), however, stated that if equal oppor­tunities for colonization had been available to both species, differences in habitat may be responsible for their distribution on different keys. Leiocephalus personatus appeared to func­tion as an opportunistic arthropodan predator. Although the importance value was low for plant material, these included flowers and seeds, items of relatively high nutritional value, indicating the likelihood that they were consumed intentional­ly. Plants may very well play a larger seasonal role in the diet, as in other congeners (Schoener et al., 1982). Leiocephalus schreibersii schreibersii (Tropiduridae) (Figure 3). This species was the most frequently encountered lizard on Muertos, Ratas (where it was the only species found), Tercero, and Tororii, records from all of which appear in Schwartz (1968), Schwartz and Thomas (1975), and Schwartz and Henderson (1988). On the latter three keys, lizards were found in nearly every available habitat, from deeply shaded woody clumps to exposed areas in low prickly pear scrub. Though individuals occasionally ventured into open, sandy areas (e.g., cleared areas around the base camp on Tororii or beaches), these forays were largely of short duration (evi­denced by infrequent tracks on all three keys and actual, extended observations on Tororii) and primarily associated with territorial activity, frequently including active combat. On Muertos, this species was quite common, but largely restricted to Acacia scrub, onto which these lizards would climb to heights of 2 m. When disturbed, individuals were as likely to drop to lower branches, or even to the ground, as they were to retreat along branches to the main trunk. Such arboreal activity has not been recorded previously, nor was it observed on other keys, where lizards were rarely observed ascending trunks and/or branches to heights > 20 cm, and never > 40 cm. Stomach contents were extremely variable, with 13 arthropodan orders and plant materials of high nutri­tional value represented. Schreiber et al. (1992) reported similar data in a population from Barahona. We neither observed nor found evidence of cannibalism, which had been documented in a population from near Monte Cristi by Jenssen ct al. (1989). Nematodes were P/iysa/o/'/era/dej sp. Members of this genus are transmitted through ingestion of arthropods harboring the infective stage, indicating that L. schreibersii feed on the same insects as Celestus costatus (see above). Another physalopteroid, Skrjabinoptera leiocephaloiwn, had been reported previously from this spe­cies in southern regions of the country (Greve and Powell, 1989; Powell et al., 1990).

Based on our experiences (but contrary to Schwartz, 1968), individuals in these populations (and those on adjacent areas of the main island; T. A. Jenssen, pers. comm.) reach larger

231

sizes (male snout-vent lengths [SVLs] to > 100 mm, female SVLs to > 80 mm) than do lizards in the southern regions of the Dominican Republic (where large male SVLs are usually < 95 mm and females rarely exceed 60 mm SVL). The first six females collected on Tororu measured 67-83 mm SVL {x = 73.5 mm); only the smallest failed to exceed the maxi­mum female SVL reported for the Siete Hermanos by Schwartz (1968). Sphaerodactylus diJJiciUs typhlopous (Gekkonidae). Schwartz and Thomas (1975) (as S. d. randi) and Schwartz and Hender­son (1988) reported this species from Monte Chico, Monte Grande, and Muertos. We failed to find any specimens, despite considerable efforts. Although the possibility exists that these populations are no longer extant, a more likely explanation is that we merely failed to encounter these small, inconspicuous lizards.

Comparisons with the saurian fauna on Isla Cabras, a coastal island of ca. 0.28 km^, 0.6 km off the main island shore at Monte Cristi, are noteworthy. Larger island size, proximity to the main island, and greater topographic relief would suggest a more diverse flora and fauna than those found on the keys. In fact, during our visit to the island on 12 May, all vegetation patterns observed on any of the seven cayos (ex­cept the extensive arboraceous sea grapes as on Monte Grande) are present on Isla Cabras; and, in addition, we found open woody scrub (to ca. 70 cm in height) in dog tooth limestone, steep and sparsely vegetated rocky slopes, and artificially maintained grassy areas (almost lawns). We col­lected or observed six species of lizards on Isla Cabras, more than on any one of the Siete Hermanos, Bo\h Anolis distichus dominicensis and A. whitemani were found in large numbers throughout the island in woody scrub not associated with dog tooth limestone. We found v4/«e/va chrysolaema regularis in

very high densities in heavily shaded areas with sandy soil on the leeward side of the island; these lizards were rare in other habitats, ̂ me/va lineolata meracula were uncommon and largely restricted to the open scrub and steep slopes. We also observed (but failed to capture) a single/Inofo olssoni olssoni on a thorny bush in dog tooth limestone and only two Leiocephalus personattts scalaris in shaded areas along the boundaries of woodland and "lawn," Schwartz and Thomas (1975) and Schwartz and Henderson (1988) specifically note the presence of bothv4rtie/va species and of L, p . scalaris. The apparent absence of L. schreibersii may be the result of com­petitive exclusion, such as that suggested for the cayos. The presence o{ Anolis o. olssoni is not surprising, as the species' type-locality is across the strait on El Morro de Monte Cristi, an isolated mesa directly on the coast.

Acknowledgements We wish to thank Rick Berry, his family, and the crew of

North Caribbean Research, Inc. in Manzanillo for making this study possible. We were provided good company, lodg­ing, excellent meals and means of visiting the keys. Further, their tolerance of our eccentricities was commendable. Mark and Robert Polsky and Jane Jolley helped in the field. Thomas A. Zanoni provided helpful comments on the vegeta­tion maps. John H, Greve provided the preliminary diagnosis of the nematodes, Robert W. Henderson, Albert Schwartz, and Richard Thomas encouraged this project. Jose A. Otten-walder and Sixto J. Inchaustegui have often facilitated oppor­tunities for field work in the Dominican Republic. A collect­ing permit was provided by Emilio A. Bautista M., Departa-mento de Vida Silvestre, and permission to visit the Cayos Siete Hermanos was granted by the Direccion Nacional de Parques.

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Schwartz, A. 1968. The Leiocephalus (Lacertilia, Iguanidae) of Hispaniola. III. Leiocephalus schreibersi, L. semilineatus, and L. pratensis. J. Herpetol. l(l-4):39-63.

. 1980. Variation in Hispaniolanylno/w whitemani Williams. J. Herpetol. 14(4);399-406. Schwartz, A., and R. W. Henderson. 1988. West Indian amphibians and reptiles: A checklist. Milwaukee Publ. Mus. Contrib. Biol.

Geol. (74):l-264. Schwartz, A., and R. W. Henderson. 1991. Amphibians and reptiles of the West Indies: Descriptions, distributions, and natural

history. Gainesville: Univ. Florida Press. Schwartz, A., and R. Thomas. 1975. A check-list of West Indian amphibians and reptiles. Carnegie Mus. Nat. Hist. Spec. Publ.

(1): 1-216. Schwartz, A., R. Thomas, and L. D. Ober. 1978. First supplement to a check-list of West Indian amphibians and reptiles. Carnegie

Mus, Nat. Hist., Spec. Publ. (5):l-35. Wetmore, A., and B. H. Swales. 1931. The birds of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Bull. U. S. Natl. Mus. 155.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27( 11 ):232-233, 1992 Combat Behavior by Two Male Western Fox Snakes, Elaphe vulpina vulpina (Baird and Girard), in Illinois

Stephen L. Barten, D.V.M. Vernon Hills Animal Hospital

1260 Butterfield Road Mundelein, IL 60060

On 2 June 1991, Geiy Herrmann and I observed combat behavior between two male western fox snakes, Elaphe vulpina vulpina (Baird and Girard). The snakes were on an island in the Mississippi River north of Lock and Dam Num­ber 13 in Whiteside County, Illinois. I had seen fox snakes on this island as well as on the adjacent shore during a number of previous visits. The snakes in question were in the root mass of a dead, overturned tree at the water's edge on the river side of the island. The roots of the tree were perpendic­ular to the ground, about 2.5 m in diameter, and their base was in the water 1 m from shore. The twin trunks of the tree extended ^ Ao the island parallel to and 1.5 m above the ground. It was a hot (approximately 85°F), sunny day at 1300 h.

We were able to spot the snakes from our canoe in the river at some distance because of their movements. Two large fox snakes were intertwined and vigorously maneuver­ing. A third fox snake, somewhat smaller than the others, was on the root mass about 1 m from the wrestling snakes. While not interacting with the fighting pair, his head was turned to­

ward them and he appeared to be observing them. The smaller snake was collected while the others seemed unaware of us or unconcerned by our presence. The small snake was later probed and found to be a male; it was about 1 m long. The combative males were intertwined with their heads to­gether (Figure 1). Each snake tried to attain a position such that its head was above that of the other. This maneuvering was followed by a vigorous throwing motion with the neck and upper body that resulted in the front portions of both snakes toppling from their perch. Neither snake appeared to have a clear advantage and each was successful in causing the other to topple. The behavior followed previous descriptions of male combat behavior, termed "topping," for Elaphe in captivity (Gillingham, 1987).

After we had observed them for about 10 minutes, the intertwined snakes toppled into the water and were hanging from the roots of the tree by the caudal halves of their bodies (Figure 2). At this point we picked them up gently and exam­ined them. They continued to react to each other and ig­nored us, making no attempt to bite or escape. Sexing probes

Figure 1. Two male fox snakes, Elaphe v. vulpina, exhibiting combat behavior. The snakes were in a root mass of a dead, overturned tree at the water's edge.

Figure 2. The same two fox snakes a moment later, after a topping maneuver (see text). The front halves of both snakes have fallen into the water as the snakes continue to struggle for position.

and measuring tapes were not available. However, we noted that the tails of both snakes were quite long, broad in the base, and of similar proportions when compared to each other. Based on this, and previous experience in determining the sex of several hundred colubrid snakes by probing, we concluded that both snakes were male. Both were about 1.25 m in length, with one snake slightly larger than the other. We placed the snakes back on the roots of the tree near each other, and they immediately started interacting as before. They crawled through the roots onto the horizontal trunk of the fallen tree and continued their topping motions. Several times both snakes toppled from the tree trunk only to end up dangling by the caudal portions of their bodies and tails. They immediately climbed back up onto the trunk, sometimes using each other's bodies to climb. Further intertwining and throwing was postponed until both were back on the trunk. Finally, during one of these vigorous throws, one snake fell to the ground while the other managed to hang on by his tail and was able to climb back onto the trunk. The fallen snake immediately crawled about rapidly with its head in the air as if seeking a way back up onto the trunk. After a brief search, the snake was successful, and on reaching the tree trunk where the other snake rested, it rushed toward the other and the combat resumed. The snakes toppled each other a few times, then another vigorous throw caused the same snake to fall to the ground once more. Again, it crawled about rapidly as if seeking a way up. At this point we discontinued our observations.

We observed the fox snakes in combat for about 20 to 30 minutes. In spite of one snake faUing from the tree twice, neither snake seemed to dominate the other. Both were able to maneuver their heads to a superior position and initiate

throws. In both instances in which the one snake fell from the trunk of the tree, the other nearly did so as well, and was barely able to hold on by its tail. When we returned to the tree some 30 minutes after we had discontinued observation, we discovered that the snakes had returned to the root mass. They were partially intertwined, but they separated when approached and crawled off in different directions.

Intraspecific combat behavior in male snakes is a conspic­uous behavior that has often been described in the literature (Shaw, 1951; Gillingham, 1987). The purpose of this behavior is not entirely known, although it appears to be a form of social aggression that results in the establishment of domi­nance. Possible initiating factors include territoriality, al­though this has not been documented in snakes, competition for food, and competition for mates (Shaw, 1951; Gillingham, 1987). The latter is perhaps the most likely purpose of com­bat behavior, as the majority of bouts occur during breeding seasons (Gillingham, 1987). In this case a third fox snake nearby was also a male, and we saw no adjacent females. Combat behavior has been observed in colubrid, boid, elapid and viperid snakes. Whereas viperid snakes tend to elevate the front portions of their bodies during topping maneuvers, colubrids tend to remain horb.ontal (Gillingham, 1987), as was seen in these fox snakes. Biting during combat has only been observed in colubrids, but we did not see this behavior in these fox snakes. Combat behavior has been described for corn snakes, Elaphe guttata, and rat snakes, Elaphe obsoleta (Shaw, 1951; Gillingham, 1987), but not for fox snakes (Gillingham, 1974; Gillingham, 1977; Powell, 1990). Howev­er, since they are closely related, it is reasonable to expect fox snakes to exhibit behaviors similar to those of other Elaphe.

Literature Cited GiUingham, J. C. 1974. Reproductive behavior of the western fox snake, Elaphe v. vulpina (Baird and Girard). Herpetologica 30:

309-313. 1977. Further analysis of reproductive behavior in the western fox snake, Elaphe v. vulpina. Herpetologica 33:349-353.

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. 1987. Social behavior. Pp. 184-209. In: R. A. Seigel, J. T. Collins and S. S. Novak, editors. Snakes: Ecology and evolutionary biology. New York City: Macmillan Publishing Company.

Powell, R. 1990. Elaphe vulpina. Cat. Amer. Amphib. Rept. 470.1-470.3. Shaw, C. E. 1951. Male combat in American colubrid snakes with remarks on combat in other colubrid and elapid snakes.

Herpetologica 7(4): 149-168.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27(11).-234, 1992 Each recipient of an award from the CHS Herpetological Grants Program is asked to submit a summary of the project for publication in the Bulletin. This report covers one of the nine projects that received funds in 1992.

Report on the Michigan Nature Association's Copperbelly Water Snake Sanctuary Bertha Daubendiek

Michigan Nature Association 7981 Beard Road

P.O. Box 102 Avoca, MI 48006

A $1000 grant from the Chicago Herpetological Society was re­ceived by the Michigan Nature Association in time to complete a $4560 payment due July 1,1992, | to purchase land ^ t.

Photograph by Dave Or critical to the survival of the largest and healthiest population in the post­glacial range of the endangered northern copperbelly water snake, Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta (Conant, 1949).

MNA Project Number 106 in southern Michigan began with a 107-acre purchase in 1988 and has grown with two parcels acquired in 1991, to its present 136-acre size. The habitat is continuous swamp-forest along a stream and the site is considered the snake's last stronghold in Michigan. It

is the only place where a reproducing population of all ages and sizes of the "red-belly blacksnake" is thriving in the Michlndhio region.

CHS's grant will not only help secure the long-term surviv­al of this copperbelly population, but also provide harbor for another Michigan endangered species found at the preserve in 1989, the smallmouth salamander, Ambystoma texanum.

MNA is a nonprofit citizens' group that has established 132 nature sanctuaries for native Michigan wildlife since 1960, using no government support. Its volunteers continue efforts to acquire remaining lands vital to the success of the copper­belly water snake project. For more information, contact the Michigan Nature Association, 7981 Beard Road, P.O. Box 102, Avoca MI 48006, (313) 324-2626.

Note: Research is currently being carried out on the MNA sanctuary, both on a state and federal basis. The northern copperbelly may become listed federally.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27( 11 ):235-237, 1992 235

Building an Incubator—A Good Winter Project Steven E. Snow

21384 Poplar Grove Road Poplar Grove, IL 61065

Herpetology has been my only hobby for the past 23 years and I've been a continuous member of the Chicago Herpeto­logical Society for about the last 16 years. For the past few years I've watched as our hobby has grown, and grown, and grown! Lucky me . . . . I've always told my folks that I wasn't the only weird one out there! One of the areas in which I believe our hobby has flourished the most is captive propa­gation. We are now even beginning to refer to ourselves as "herpetoculturaUsts"! All of this has been very pleasing to me. The more of us who choose to participate in captive-breeding programs, the less the strain will be on existing wild populations. There is no "black-magic" when it comes to captive breeding. Thanks to the wealth of information that has been disseminated on the subject in the past few years, much of it through local herpetological societies such as the CHS, most anyone with an interest in breeding can accom-pUsh his or her goals. The days of a "select-few" individuals making tons and tons of money are on the way out. I firmly believe that every serious hobbyist should invest the required time and money (it won't cost you that much money) in con­struction of a custom-built home incubator. If you do as I did, you can even make that incubator an attractive part of your home decor, possibly rivaUng some of your finest furni­ture (Figure 1).

My father and I built my incubator this last winter and I would like to share the plans with you and also, I hope, save you some time and effort in obtaining the materials. My father retired in 1986 and since then has kind of been at a loss for staying busy. He is an expert craftsman when it comes to working with wood and he also has a fairly decent working knowledge of electricity. I guess that when I said that he and I built the incubator I may have been just a hair inaccurate— actually I brought him the plans and he built most of it him­self. We did spend some time together on this project, however—about 20 hours calling all over the place trying to find the right components. That is what prompted me to

Figure 1. A custom-buih home incubator, the latest in home furnishings for the herper.

write this article. It would please me if I could save some­body else all of the hassles that we went through by spelling out the exact sources that we found in obtaining our materi­als. It also gives me a chance to spotlight some of my father's superb workmanship as we have never really had that much in common and this project gave us some common ground. You know the age-old herpcr's curse: He likes to fish, I like to snake-hunt; he likes tools, I like snake-probes; he likes to tinker in his basem*nt workshop, I like to scoop poop in my snakeroom. The list goes on and on but I think that a lot of you can relate to it!

For starters I chose the design illustrated on pages 100 and 101 in the outstanding publication. The Reproductive Hus­bandry of Pythons and Boas, by Ross and Marzec. Even if you're just into colubrids and never work with the boids, I still recommend this book highly as an addition to your herpeto­logical library. It has proved to be very useful to me. I corre­spond with the senior author. Dr. Richard Ross, Director of the Institute for Herpetological Research, which published the book. I was so impressed with the functionality of their incubator design that I asked for, and was granted permission to print diagrams of their incubator plans in my article (Fig­ures 2 and 3).

The entire incubator can be made from a single 4' x 8' sheet of plywood (Figure 2). We chose to use 1/2" plywood and the 1" sheets of styrofoam as insulation. I also found that many of the larger hardware and home improvement stores will actually cut the wood for you right to specifications while you wait. If you choose not to go this route then I might suggest purchasing your plywood in two 4' x 4' sections. Buy­ing it like this is a little bit more expensive, but it sure makes it a lot easier to carry home.

The first thing that we did was to make our basic box. We did this by using a small amount of wood glue and then nail­ing the front, sides, top and bottom together. Once this was done we spent several hours sanding down the exterior of the box until we were satisfied with the outside texture. Next, we were ready to cut the lid off. We did this by drawing a line

t 2' Top

4'

Front

4'

t 2' Top

4' Back

4' 2' Bottom

4-

Back

4' 2' Bottom

4-

16- Side

2'

16" Side

2'

Figure 2. The entire incubator can be made out of one 4' x 8' sheet of plywood.

236

around the box several inches down from the top. around. I had never seen it done this way and thought it was a pretty neat trick. Now that we had our basic box completed

Then we simply took a Skil-saw and followed the line

Schematic Diagram of IHR Incubator

Figure 3. Incubator design, courtesy of the Institute for Herpetological Research.

237

we were ready to install the dowel rods, run the heat tape, and wire up the thermostat, (Figures 3 and 4). This is where we hit our biggest snag—finding the proper wafer-type ther­mostat! After much looking we found exactly what I was looking for in the form of two replacement thermostats wired in sequence. These were sold to me by Valentine Equipment Company of Chicago (see listing at end of text). I used two thermostats wired in sequence so that if one of the thermo­stats were to fail, the other would take over and I wouldn't risk losing the eggs. Valentine Equipment Company offers two catalogs: one general equipment catalog, and one specif­ic herpetological supply catalog. To obtain the proper wafer-type thermostats you'll have to look in the general equipment catalog under the replacement thermostats for fowl incuba­tors. I spoke with a Valentine Company Representative on 8 July 1992 and he told me that they do not charge CHS mem­bers for their catalogs.

Compared with finding the proper thermostats, obtaining the rest of the materials was a breeze! With the possible exception of the heat-tape, all of the other incidental supplies (i.e., electrical junction box/cover, 7.5-watt red pilot lights/plug-in sockets, brass handles/hinges, stain/varnish, etc.) can be purchased from any well-stocked hardware store. Although I'm sure there are many good sources for heat tapes, I like dealing with "Captive-Electronics" owned by Keith Wisner out of Berkley, Michigan (see listing at end of text). I've dealt with Keith before and he seems to be quite reputable. He also stocks electronic thermometers with the remote sensor. This is one of the areas where we strayed from the IHR plans: we installed an interior thermometer. Even though you shouldn't have to worry about it once you've

got the thermostats set, I still prefer to have an outside read­ing so I can check the temperature with a glance as I walk by.

We also modified the IHR plans slightly by placing the thermostats in different places and having two red pilot lights instead of one, (Figure 4). My father wired it up so that the top pilot light stays on at all times showing that power is going to the box. The bottom pilot light comes on when the heat-tape kicks in. Although I was initially a bit skeptical about setting it up like this, now that I have the system in place I have been very happy with its functionality. I wish I were able to give you step by step directions on how we (he) wired everything up but unlike captive breeding, working with electricity really is "black magic" to me! My counsel would be either to find a buddy who knows what he's doing to help you wire it, or complete your box, purchase all of the needed components, and then hire a qualified electrician to finish the job for you.

In closing, we put on two coats of stain, (early American was the shade 1 chose), and then three coats of "Spar" varnish. After each coat of varnish we would very lightly sand the exterior before the next coat. The result was a beautifully finished custom-built home incubator capable of holding two styrofoam fish-packing boxes (available at most pet stores) or four shoe boxes side by side. My incubator has become a permanent addition at the foot of my bed and, although my veiy understanding wife makes cracks about sleeping above the "red-light district," I couldn't be any happier with the incubator's design. I have three clutches of bull snake eggs "cooking" in it right now (Figure 5), but then that's another article.

Figure 4. Inside shot of basic incubator set-up showing heat tape and dual thermostats wired in sequence.

Figure 5. The completed incubator in action, "cooking" some Jo Daviess County, Illinois, bull snake eggs.

Literature Cited Ross, R. A., and G. Marzec. 1990. The reproductive husbandry of pythons and boas. Stanford, CA: The Institute for Herpetological Research.

Sources for Equipment Captive Electronics, 2947 Kenmore, Berkley, MI 48072, (313) 546-5287, Keith Wisner, owner. Valentine Equipment Company, 4259 S. Western Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60609-2276, (800) GET-STUF.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27( 11 ):238-240, 1992 238

HerPET-POURRI b y E l l i n B e l t z

Bucks and flns sought for herps The Illinois Department of Conservation Non-game Wildlife Conservation Fund is accepting donations—even if they don't come in with an Illinois income tax return. The Non-game Wildlife Fund is, as its name implies, not about deer, ducks or fish. It funds many conservation projects and population studies in Illinois every year, including a few for reptiles and amphibians. If you choose to donate money (even $5 or $10 would help), please be sure to mention your interest in am­phibians and reptiles. If the Department becomes aware of the vast public interest in the slimy and slithery as a result of receiving checks with such comments attached, it is possible that they will be more interested in funding herpetofaunal studies. Send your checks to: Non-game Wildlife Conserva­tion Fund, Department of Conservation, Natural Heritage Division, 524 South Second Street, Springfield, IL 62701-1787. People who don't live in Illinois may not be aware of the state's extreme budget crisis, the potential loss of many D.O.C. projects, and other difficulties we're experiencing. You don't have to live in Illinois to contribute.

Frogs in space In early September, the space shuttle Endeavour blasted off, carrying a Chicago doctor and a bunch of zoology experi­ments, including some clawed frogs which were injected with hormones to induce ovulation. Two produced 600 eggs which were drenched with sperm. One hundred fifty tadpoles hatched from the eggs during the flight and were observed cavorting in weightlessness. Seven other tadpoles that had been hatched in orbit, but fertilized on the ground, will be included in the studies of the effects of space on develop­ment. NASA discovered that gravity is unnecessary for frog ovulation and fertilization. Incidentally, this was the first space flight to include a married couple, but no one is saying if they were part of these vertebrate zoology experiments. NASA is quick to say that they worked opposite shifts and saw little of each other in space. [Chicago Tribune, Septem­ber 15,1992, contributed by P. L. Beltz; Daily Sentinel, Sep­tember 14,15,16 and 21,1992, contributed by Larry Valen­tine; other clippings by J. H. Schoenfelder.] The space frogs will be studied upon their return to earth by Dr. Ken Souza at the Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California. If anyone hears or reads of his findings, please let me know.

But is it better than just one? A 2-inch, two-headed Pseudemys scripta elegans was found on the deck of a house along the hom*osassa River in hom*osassa, Florida, taken for an X-ray at a local animal hospital. The turtle is in good shape and may grow to the size of a dinner plate according to J. P. Garner of hom*osas.sa Springs State Wildlife Park. [Daily Herald, Palatine, IL, October 8, 1992, contributed by Holly Collins]

"Send a herpetologist to Springfield" So said part of a mailing I received from Mike Corn, who has been a professor at the College of Lake County for the past

22 years. Apparently upset about the so-called "dangerous animal act," particularly as it applies to herps, Mike has decid­ed to run as state representative for the 61st district as a Democrat. By the time you read this it will be known wheth­er or not he won. If you know Mike, you might want to drop him a line. Write: Committee to Elect Mike Com, 3567-B Grand Avenue #322, Gumee, IL 60031.

People unclear on the concept Last February a man phoned Rusty Grimpe, director of the reptile department at the zoo in Tulsa, Oklahoma to com­plain about a snake. Grimpe said, "He said this thing was coming out of a hole in the ground and that it was moving very slowly." From the man's description, Grimpe was stumped. He said that the cold weather would account for the slowness, but February is a bit early for snakes. Also, the man had said that it had a brown, wrinkled head and that it had a white neck. The man said he had captured the snake in a big jar. When he and it arrived at the zoo, Grimpe positive­ly identified it as a morel mushroom. "I told him to take it home and fry it," said Grimpe. He added that 1992 has had a unusually high number of snake hysteria calls to the zoo. [Daily Sentinel, Grand Junction, CO, July 19, 1992, contribut­ed by Larry Valentine]

Lost turtle found in Arctic Zoologist Per Pethon said that a 730-pound leatherback turtle apparently made a wrong turn at the Gulf of Mexico and ended up in a Norwegian fishing trawler's net near the Arctic Circle. Arild Olsen, skipper of the Traenahavct trawler said, "I couldn't believe my eyes." Scandinavian conservation groups are investigating ways of saving the turtle, including getting it an airplane ride home to Mexico. [Daily Sentinel, Grand Junction, CO, contributed by Larry Valentine] If anybody out there hears what becomes of this turtle, I'd be interested in the follow-up story.

Weird snake stories First, police in Carleton, Michigan, are telling residents not to worry about a 14-foot python that escaped Saturday from a home in that town. Police say that no one is actively search­ing for the snake, because it is not much of a threat. [Toledo Blade, August 2, 1992, contributed by Kathy Bricker] A 10-foot Burmese python that had been presumed missing in Fremont, Ohio, was found in its own second floor apartment. Apparently it never left home, as it was discovered crawling out of a closet. [Toledo Blade, September 1, 1992, contribut­ed by Kathy Bricker] A man who reportedly had suffered a snake bite was the focus of a massive search and rescue effort by residents of Butte County and Plumas County, California. Helicopters were called in as workers tried to locate the Oroville man who had been out hiking when the attack reportedly occurred. Finally, after 12 hour.s, the man was found and rushed to a hospital in Ouincy where doctors decided that he had not been bitten bi^l

239

had suffered a head injury when he fell down after being startled by a snake. [Sacmmento Bee, August 15,1992, con­tributed by Bruce Hannem]

Freak of nature Deidre Warren, a 20-year-old Old York (Canada) resident found an odd toad in her yard. She originally thought the toad just had his eyes shut, but when he opened his mouth, she found out that his eyes were actually inside his mouth. Okay, so this sounds like National Enquirer, right? Actually the first cUp on this was from the front page of the Hamilton, Ontario, Spectator [September 3, 1992], complete with color photograph. Jim Bogart, a professor at Guelph University examined the toad (now named "Gollum," by his discoverer after the character in Tolkien's Lord of the Rings) and said, "This is an extremely rare find." He said the toad is a male Bufo americanus, perhaps about two years old. Bogart said, "His eyes have developed upside down," and pointed out that the skin and membrane on top of the head are where the eyes should be. He said that in his work he has seen abnormalities including extra hands or feet, frogs with six legs and frogs with legs growing out of their stomachs. Warren, who hopes to become a veterinarian, is an accomplished finder of odd animals. Previously she found a frog with extra toes and a dead two-headed snake. Makes you wonder what chemicals are floating around in Old York, doesn't it? If so, you're not the only one. The toad has drawn the interest of Christine Bishop, a wildlife toxicologist with Environment Canada's Wildlife Service. She was involved in a study of the effects of pesticides on amphibians in the Holland Marsh area. She said, "I'd like to meet the girl who found it and have a look at the pond on the property, any tributaries in the area, that sort of thing Maybe I could monitor some of the eggs in the pond next year and try to determine if it is genetic- or pollu­tion-related." Planners for the Old York area said there are no records of dumps on or near the property, but pointed out that road-side dumping is common in rural areas. [The Spec­tator, September 4, 1992, both from Brian Bankowski]

First clipping received from Kenyan paper Fred Janzen, of the University of Chicago, sent two pages of the Nairobi, Kenya, Daily Nation from July 25,1992. In addition to the information he highlighted about snakes, the rest of the paper was a fascinating view of a country about which the average American knows little. It seems as though Kenyatta University is having a snake problem, due to over­grown grass and bushes. The article says, "an increasing snake population seemed to be enjoying the ecology as evi­dent from the number of snakes killed on footpaths and roads." Otherwise the place sounds just like an Illinois state university: no money, too much administration, top heavy with people who know people, not people who know how to run a school. I just wish we had snakes on the footpaths at my school.

TEDs interim final rule summary The Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmo­spheric Administration has finally released the "interim final rule with request for comments" that TEDs supporters have

been trying to get issued for over two years now. Of course, the Ouayle council on competitiveness (the "God Squad" that decided that cutting America's last old growth forest is more important than saving that ecosystem) weighed in against the regulations. To quote directly from a Center for Marine Conservation (CMC) release dated September 2,1992: "Yesterday's interim final rule reaffirms that TED require­ments remain in effect for all vessels 25 feet or longer in the U.S. Atlantic waters year round. Smaller vessels in offshore and all vessels in inshore waters can either use TEDs or adopt 90-minute tow times. As of November 1, these tow times will be further restricted to no longer than 75 minutes. Further­more, today the National Marine Fisheries Service is expected to reopen public comment on the proposal made in April." Deborah Crouse, Ph.D., Director of the Species Recovery Program at the CMC said, "While the interim final rule is good news for sea turtles in the Atlantic, it fails to address adequately the continued sea turtle drownings occurring in the Gulf and inshore waters. Against the recommendations of agency technical experts, the President's own top Com­merce Department officials, and the National Academy of Science, the Council and Office of Management and Budget have squandered an opportunity for better marine conserva­tion and allowed politics to rule the day over science and public opinion." Even the federal government (a different branch) recognizes the need for TEDs as an integral part of the recovery plans for Kemp's, green, and loggerhead sea turtles—all of which are endangered species. So much for reading the lips of the kinder, gentler, environmental presi­dent. [CMC release, contributed by Kathy Bricker]

Mommy, is it alive? Zoo administrators near Detroit, Michigan, were astonished to find out that visitors to "Dinosaurs Live!" were upset and wanted their money back because the dinosaurs were really computerized models, not live animals as they had been led to believe by the title. Ann Ball, a zoo vice-president said, "In a way, it's amusing. People have watched too much Fred Flint-stone." [Detroit News, September 13,1992] Contributor Cheri Hosley wrote a note with this clipping: "I've seen the dinosaur robots Terrific! (And horrific to tiny kids ) As the dinosaurs moved, blinked, roared and growled, the young tots and preschoolers would scream, cry and claw at their parents. These robots were built to the actual sizes of the real dinosaurs. . . . Some real big ones had really big teeth and eyes. It was great! Wish I had them in my year. I loved the exhibit. It was better than roUercoasters."

Thanks to this month's contributors! Blessed are those that contribute to the column, but even more blessed are those who put the date slug from the top of the paper with the paper's name firmly attached on the clipping with their name also firmly attached. I opened a couple of envelopes today (no I won't tell you whose) and the phone rang. I dropped the envelopes and the clippings all tumbled out. So I had to sit down on the floor and play "match the typeface" and "which clippings were whose." I think I finally succeeded, but if your clipping is credited to someone else (above), please understand what happened! Also, there were a lot of repeats

240

of previous articles in the mail this time (probably because of the one-month hiatus). Ernie Liner, Bruce Hannem, Stacy Miller, and Eric Thiss all sent things that had been used before, but are appreciated nonetheless. It is always inter­esting to me the different spin put on stories by different papers. Special mention should also be made of Steven J. Ragsdale's contribution of about 20 articles and 25 cartoons.

some of which I'm saving for next month. You can contrib­ute, too! This is a reader-supported column. I use 99% of what I receive. Send your contributions to: Ellin Behz, 1647 North Clyboum Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614-5507. Allow one or two months before you see your stuff used. We have a long lead time.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27(11):240, 1992

N E W T L I N E As usual for

the monthly meeting of the CHS, the west lobby of the Field Museum was filled with professional and amateur herpe­tologists on Wednesday evening, September 30,1992. Books, T-shirts, Vita-lites, canned soda and other merchandise were available for purchase. The CHS library cart was available for checking out books. Steve Spitzer reported that fifteen guests signed up for new CHS memberships. The meeting began at 8:00 P.M. with 175 members and guests in attendance. After some general announcements, Dottie Humbert presented the CHS Nominating Committee's choices for positions on the CHS Board of Directors for the upcoming year. Nominations were also taken from the floor. The election is scheduled to be held at the November meeting.

Ben Entwisle reported that since his appointment as CHS Adoption Chairperson, he has successfully placed nearly 100 herps. He suggested that any member interested in adopting an animal through the CHS submit his or her name, phone number and animal preferences in advance, due to time con­straints in finding a home for these orphans.

The new "Shorts" program began with a delightful and informative presentation on the husbandry of iguanas by our Corresponding Secretary, Brian Jones. Brian showed slides of his 10 iguanas in their home-made habitat. He welcomed questions regarding their diet and breeding and met with individuals seeking additional information after the program.

During the break, members purchased $127.50 in raffle tickets from Gary Fogel. Raffle prizes consisted of one

Neodesha cage, two small aquariums, several varieties of canned reptile food, T-shirts, framed art, plants, a "hot rock" and various reptile memorabilia.

The second half of the meeting was devoted to Dr. Gary Ferguson, a professor at Ft. Worth's Texas Christian Univer­sity. His presentation entitled "Chameleons: Capture, Cap­tive Breeding and Conservation" was filled with colorful slides of these beautiful lizards. He spoke about origin, feeding, habitat, camouflage techniques, head ornamentation, captive breeding, importation and conservation of several species of chameleon. For those interested in chameleons and their keepers, he recommended joining the Chameleon Informa­tion Network. The organization currently has 180 members and for a $16 annual membership fee, they will send you their quarterly newsletter and a membership directory. Contact them c/o John M. Annis II, 271 Bennett Avenue, Suite B, Long Beach, CA 90803.

The CHS wi.shcs to thank both guest speakers for an entertaining lizard evening. For those CHS members inter­ested in obtaining a videotape of the September meeting and its presentations, please contaa Phil Drajeske, 8012 Green­wood, Munstcr, IN 46321. The cost of the tape is $15 includ­ing postage.

The PBS television program "Wild Chicago," which filmed several members of the CHS and their herps back in July on location at the Field Museum, has announced that the seg­ment will appear in its premier episode! The show was slated for October 18,1992, at 10:30 P.M . on Channel 11. Those interested in obtaining a copy of the program on videotape should contact Debi Hatchett, 2139 N. Hoyne, Chicago, IL 60647, for details.

We slay in touch, so you stay in touch. Respectfully yours, NEWT

Chicago Herp. Soc. 27( 11 ):241-242, 1992

Herpetology 1992 In this column the editorial staff presents short abstracts of herpetological articles we have found of interest. This is not an attempt to summarize all of the research papers being published. It is an attempt to increase the reader's awareness of what herpetologists have been doing and publishing. The editors assume full responsibility for any errors or misleading statements regarding the results of the abstracted research. JCM FEMALE ROUGH-SKINNED NEWTS LIMIT PATERNITV C. R. Fropper [1991, Animal Behavior 41(4):547-554] studies courtship behavior in the rough-skinned newt, Taricha granu­losa. She finds that, during pre-insemination, the behavior of the male and female change concomitantly. Males' hind limb contraction rates increase as females become more receptive (lowered head position to raised head position). The pre-insemination stage of courtship lasts a median of seven hours. Of first sperm transfer attempts, 89.5% culminated in success­ful insemination. After insemination females were no longer receptive to courtship; although pre-insemination and insemi­nation inhibited receptivity in 40% of the females, pre-insemination courtship, insemination and post-insemination amplexus inhibited receptivity in 100% of the females tested. This unique result demonstrates that post-insemination asso­ciation may ensure paternity through inhibiting female sexual receptivity.

SKIN MECHANICS OF A TINY GECKO A. M. Bauer et al. [1992, Herpetologica 48(1):124-133] report that the skin of the Puerto Rican gecko, Sphaerodactylus roosevelti, is characterized by extreme mechanical weakness, and like other fragile-skinned geckos the dermis has two layers. Zones of weakness are present in the hinge region between the imbricating scales of the dorsal and lateral body surfaces. Tests demonstrate that skin strength and toughness are about one to two orders of magnitude lower than in other geckos. When the skin is torn little or no bleeding occurs and thus inflammatory responses are minimal. The authors sug­gest that invertebrates may be the most important predators of these small lizards and skin rupture may prove particularly effective as an escape mechanisms from predators that re­quire a lengthy prey handling time.

WESTERN DIAMONDBACK FOOD HABITS G. R. Pisani and B. R. Stephenson [1991, Trans. Kansas Acad. Sci. 94(3-4): 137-141] report on the food preferences afCrota-lits atrax from Oklahoma in fall and early spring. A study of western diamondbacks collected for three rattlesnake round­ups presented an opportunity to examine the food habits from several different localities. Viscera were obtained and identi­fiable food remains were found in 19.7% of 407 specimens examined. There was no difference in prey type by locality. Only adult snakes were used in the study. Mammals com­posed most of the prey, although some individuals contained birds. The most frequently found mammalian prey species were the rodents Neotoma floridana, Pemmyscus sp., Rattiis norvegicus, Perognathus sp. and Mus sp. (in total these species were found in 44 of the 80 guts containing mammalian prey) and the lagomorph Sylvilagus floridanus (found in an addi­tional six guts).

HERPS IN THE DIET OF THE LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE J. D. Tyler [1991, Proc. Oklahoma Acad. Sci. 71:17-20] reports on sixty-four vertebrates killed by shrikes in Oklahoma. Twenty of them (14 species) were herptiles, making up 31% of all vertebrates taken and 42% of all species taken by the bird. Shrikes impale their prey on the thorns of trees and shrubs or on the barbs of fences. Species listed are: Blanchard's cricket frog, plains leopard frog, common snap­ping turtle, Texas homed lizard, six-lined racerunner, ground skink, diamondback water snake, blotched water snake, Texas brown snake, Graham's crayfish snake, western ribbon snake, prairie ringneck snake, yellowbelly racer, and the central lined snake. The snakes taken were all less than 30 cm long.

BRAZILUN BOTHROPS ATROX H. E. Belluomini et al. [1991, Bol. Mus. Paraense Emiho Goeldi 7(l):53-56] analyze data from a population of Bothrops atrox represented by 294 specimens. Males were more common than females; 94.5% of the specimens were between 60 and 105 cm in length. Small lizards were the dominant food. Snakes up to 60 cm in length produced as much as 20 mg of dry venom; 94.9% of the specimens pro­duced venom in quantities that reached as high as 100 mg dry weight. The authors caution that published observations on B. atrox may actually refer to Bothrops moojeni Hoge 1966, if published before the recognition of the second species. [Text in Portuguese]

TWO NEW MONITOR LIZARDS R. G. Sprackland [1991, Mem. Queensland Museum 30(3): 561-576] places the race Varanus prasinus kordensis in junior synonymy with V. prasinus; and elevates Varanus p . bogerti and V. p . beccarii to specific status. He also describes two new extralimital species, V. leriae from Australia's Cape York Peninsula and V. telenesetes from Rossell Island, Papua New Guinea. The author suggests that the V. prasinus group was derived from V. indicus stock, having invaded New Guinea and later extending into northeastern Australia.

SEX REVERSAL IN LARVAL SALAMANDERS C. Dournon et al. [1991, Bull. Soc. Herp, France (57):19-30] report that temperatures during salamander larval develop­ment can disturb differentiation in one sex and induce sexual inversion. Male Pleumdelespoireti with a ZZ genotype be­come phcnotypic females when reared at 30-32°C. Female P. wait! with a ZW genotype become phenotypic males when raised at 32°C. In the latter species, when the temperature was held at 32°C during the thcrmoscnsitivc period of differ­entiation of gonadal sex (stages 42 to 54), 100% sex reversal was achieved. [Submitted by H. Brings0c. Text in French.)

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* Min imum order is $100.00. All orders must be prepaid by cashiers check, money order, or bank transfer. Shipping can be via express mail or air freight (freight collect). I am difficult to get a hold of so please leave your name, number and a message on my machine. Average shipping cost is only about $35. No box or dry ice charge. Special discounts may be requested for orders over $500. Prices are subject to change without notice . Please call to conf i rm prices and availabil i ty.

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243

Advertisem*nts Attention: the Varanid Information exchange is a society of herpetoculturists sharing an interest in MONITOR LIZARDS. Members receive the bimonthly newsletter, VaraNews. Annual membership is: U.S., $10; foreign, $12 surface/$15 air. For a free copy, send a legal-size SASE to: Varanix, 8726D S. Sepulveda Boulevard, #243, Los Angeles CA 90045. Expeditions: Guyana rain forest (South America). Journeys through lowland and mountain jungles. My last trip turned up Amazon tree boas, an aquatic coral snake, unknown species of tree snake, spectacled and dwarf caiman. A fer-de-lance turned up a guide, but he is okay. Five- and 14-day trips are scheduled throughout the year (the next one, in late November, explores islands in the mighty Essequibo River). A June-July summer scientific program is in the works (including bushmaster radiotelemetty studies). Excellent opportunities for photographers, writeis and students looking for specimens and research projects. Average cost, including airfare, is $1750. Steve Faust, Guyana Rain Forest Encounter, (803) 462-7805. [sq Fauna classifieds: monthly classifieds publication for reptiles, amphibians, food items & supplies, literature and more. Excellent information source, worldwide circulation. Subscription $14/year. Free sample & info. Write: FAUNA, 2379 Maggio Circle Unit C, Lodi CA 95240. For sale: herp bags—dark green, translucent rip-stop nylon, super light weight, extremely durable construction with hot corners sewn in. Sizes: 46" X 14", $5.95/bag; 24" x 12", $4.75/bag; 24" x6", $3.75/bag. Custom sizes made on request. Shipping fees: $1 for the first bag, $.30 for each additional bag, or pick up at CHS meetings. Make checks payable to Chicago Herpetological Society. Send orders to or call John Mackenbach, 21W092 Shelley Drive, Itasca IL 60143, (708) 773-3885. For sale: WILLARD'S RODENT RANCH-teW 'em Ben sent yal Live or fresh-frozen mice and rats-mice; pinks to hoppers $.35 each or 3/$1.00; weanlings to adults $.50 each; jumbos $.75 each — rats; pinkies to chubbies $.50 each; fuzzies $1.00 each; small $1.50 each; medium $2.25 each; large $3.00 each; jumbo $4.00 each. Discounts available on large one-time orders. Prices subject to change without notice, availability may vary. Pick-up or delivery at the CHS meeting, shipping available for large frozen orders. Contact Mike Miller (days) at (708) 974-2600. For sale: highest quality frozen feeder animals, raised on the best diets available. Seven years in the production and supply of frozen feeders. Special­izing in various sizes of mice: 1- to 2-day-old pinks; 4- to 5-day-oId large pinks; 8- to 10-day-old extra large fuzzies; and adults. Prices start at $25/100. Also available, pink rats, baby chicks and quail chicks. Write or call for a free price list. Kelly Haller, 4236 S.E. 25th, Topeka KS 66605, (913) 234-3358. For sale: top quality fresh frozen rats, $1.50 each. Price includes packing and dry ice. Freight is collect to you. Our rats are fed the highest quality laboratory formulated diet and are flash frozen for maximum nutritional value. Minimum order $75. AHn: 30% discount on standing orders and orders of 300 or more rats. Steve Hammond, c/o Exceptional Exotics, 12319 Steedland, Louisville KY 40229, (502) 955-8705. For sale: THE GOURMET RODENT: rats and mice-pinkies, fuzzies and adults. Quantity discounts. Please send a SASE for pricelist or call Bill Brant, 6115 SW 137th Avenue, Archer FL 32618, (904) 495-9024. For sale: frozen chicks, four for $1. Will bring to CHS meetings. Bryant Capiz, (312) 725^773. For sale: top quality mice, rats and Chinese dwarf hamsters. All sizes at competitive prices. Gary W. Allison, 919 Wyandotte Street, Bethlehem PA 18015, (215) 974-8975. For sale: murine-pathogen-free rats and mice available in all sizes, live or frozen: pinkies, fuzzies, crawlers, small, medium and large. Frozen crawler mice in lots of 2000, $.17 each. Also available, full grown hairless mice. FOB shipping point. Master Card accepted. Call (518) 537-2000 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm or write SAS Corporation, 273 Hover Avenue, Germantown NY 12526 for prices and additional information. For sale: THE RAT SHACK: all colors, sizes & quantities of domestic rats. Call Keith or Shannon Allen in Alabama, (205) 536-3081, evenings. For sale; MISSISSIPPI MICE: frozen mice, fuzzies, pinkies-quantity discounts. Rob Screws, 130 Calhoun Ave., Yazoo City MS 39194, (601) 746-8336. For sale: fresh frozen mice: pinks to weanlings, 3 for $1; subadult mice, $.40 each. Fresh frozen rats now available: weanlings (40-60 g), $.80 each; small (60-90 g), $1 each. Quantity discounts—inquire. Will deliver to CHS or swap. Will ship on large orders. Scott Michaels, (815) 363-0290. For sale: high quality feeder mice. Shipped UPS Next Day Air. All mice are properly processed to insure a quality product. Fourth year of production and supply of frozen feeder mice. Prices: pinks, $20/100; fuzzies, $25/100; weanlings, $30/100. Also available are 4 oz. + rats, $100/100. The Mouse Factory, P.O. Box 85, Alpine TX 79831, (915) 837-7100, Ray Queen. For sale: quality frozen mice, pinks through adults. Libby & Darrin Reed, Carolina Mouse Farm, P.O. Box 382, Salem SC 29676, (803) 654-0116. For sale: pathogen-free laboratory quality rats, frozen only, in sizes from 100 grams (small) to over 500 grams (jumbo), $1 to $4 each. Enjoy the convenience of frozen rats without the mess and trouble of raising your own. THE RAT RACE, (317) 873-6561 evenings. [Indianapolis] For sale: Steve's Rodent Farm —rats only, any size, any quantity. Low prices, quantity discounts on orders over 1000. Call or write for price list. Steve Waldrop, Rt. 7 Box 1154, HaleyviUe AL 35565, (205) 486-8876. For sale: large selection of captive born reptiles and amphibians, books and supplies. Send S.A.S. business-size envelope for complimentary price list or $5 for a 1 year subscription (bi-monthly), to Twin Cities Reptiles, 540 Winnetka Avenue North, Golden Valley MN 55427, (612) 593-0298. For sale: 1992 HERPETOLOGICAL DIRECTORY. A valuable information source containing private and commercial breeders, foreign exporters, U.S. and foreign herp societies, wholesalers, and sources for rodents & other food items, supplies & equipment and publications. Send $15 to FAUNA, 2379 Maggio Circle Unit C, Lodi CA 95240. For sale: professional reptile feeding/growth charts. Protect your valuable reptiles by keeping good records. 3 x 5 card stock: 20-pack, $3; 50-pack, $6; 100-pack, $10 (price includes shipping and handling). Dealers and herp clubs wanted. West Texas Reptiles, 6401 University, Lubbock TX 79413, (806) 794-7816. For sale: Rattlesnake Hunting, a 60-minute video by a 30-year veteran collector. Don't miss this one! It's as close to being in the field as you can get. (Not a slick commercial production.) Send check or money order for $19.95 plus $3 postage & handling to: D. Wheeler, 2705 Sunset Trail, Riverwoods IL 60015. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. For sale: BOOKS FROM VENEZUELA. All are in Spanish and in new, mint condition: Lancini, A. R., Serpientes de Venezuela, 1986, hardbound, two copies at $80 each; Jesus Hoyas F., Guia deArboles de Venezuela. 1987, 352 pp., hardbound, field guide format, color plates of tree species on every other page, $35; Raymond, Theophile, Manposas de Venezuela, 1982 reprint of original 1902 work on butterflies and moths, hardbound, 275 pp. with 53 color plates with numerous specimens on each plate, $80. Prices include postage and handling. Allan Markezich, P.O. Box 726, Orion IL 61273. For sale: books on reptiles and amphibians, used, out of print and rare. Over 3400 titles listed. List sent free upon request. I Icrpclological Search Service & Exchange, 117 E. Santa Barbara Road, Lindenhurst NY 11757.

244

Advertisem*nts (cont'd) For sale: Flcxwatt heat tape—3", $2/foot; 11", $2.75/foot. Clips sets, $1.50. Herpatat domed radiam aquarium heaters—10 gal., $15 each; 15/20 gal., $18 each. Herpatat Hide Outs—small, $8 each; large, $11 each. These products are available at wholesale and bulk quantities prices. Professional quality stainless steel sexing probes with ball tip, $49/set. Pocket hook telescoping to 24", $15 each. 30" hot feeders, $40 each. For complete animal and supply price list or wholesale prices contact Giovanni or Paula fa*gioli at the Bean Farm, 32514 NE 77th, Carnation WA 98014, (206) 861-7964, (206) 333^205 FAX. For sale: custom built oak-framed aquarium for aquatic herps, 5'l x 2'w x 1 'h, with stand, light and filter system, $300 or best offer. (708) 597-6172 evenings. For sale: 20-gallon long glass tank, 30"l x 12"w x 13"h, with removable screened lid and a large heated sizzle stone, ideal for small lizards, $65. (708) 499-5284. For sale: reptile cages. Three 5/8" plywood cages with waterproof vinyl floors, 30" x 24" x 16"; two formica cages, 3' x 2' x 2'. Best offer, must move. Glenn Lewis, (708) 265-1614. For sale: two female White's treefrogs (one very big). Max Cheslow, 2116 W. Homer, Chicago IL 60647, (312) 235-1725. For sale: frogs, c.b. tomato frogs, Dyscophus insularis, 1-2", taking adult crickets, from bright red parents, $15 each; poison dart frogs, c.b./c.r. subadult Costa Rican Dendrobates auratus, $40 each; adult c.b./c.r. Epipedobates tricolor, burgundy and blue spots, $35 each; two male and one female Budgett's frogs, adult breeding trio, $120/trio; two male and one female leucistic axolotls, breeding colony, bred 3-4 times a year for last two years, $60; Cranwell's homed frogs, adult breeders, $80/pair, extra females, $50 each; Argentine homed frogs, adult breeders, $125/pair; tomato frogs, long term captives, adult breeders, $8S/pair, extra males, $35 each. Chris, (616) 772-4627 evenings or leave message. For sale: 4' Nile monitor, Varanus niloticus omatus, this is a captive-raised, healthy, robust animal with a beautiful, high-contrast pattern, $95. Ralph, (708) 205-9890. For sale: one male c.b. '91 Phelsuma standing, $85; one c.b. 8/92 P. standing!, $75; one male and one female c.b. '91 Uromastix aegypticus, approx. 10", $300/pair; 10 Australian bearded dragons, Pogona vitticeps, started hatchlings, $75 each. Peter Weis, Rt. 4, Box 468, Tallahassee FL 32304, (904) 574-1037. For sale: c.b. hom*opholis boivini, Egemia cunninghami, AUuronyx seychellensis and other lizards. Inquire to find out what other rare lizards are in stock! Call or write for our free price list. Ray's Repriles, P.O. Box 4732, Lincoln NE 68504-0473. Call Monday-Saturday, (402) 477-1975 or FAX (402) 466-8423, eves are best. For sale: rhinoceros iguanas; Cuban iguanas; green iguanas; Geochelone sulcata; G. elephantopus (Florida sales only). Ask for D. J. or Sam, (305)680-8492. [FL] For sale: c.b. hatchling New Guinea sideneck turtles, Elseya novaeguineae, $35 each. Phil Drajeske, 8012 Greenwood Avenue, Munster IN 46321, (219) 838-8032. For sale: all captive bom, very tame and in excellent health! Red-tailed boa constrictor; male African spur-thighed tortoise; one male and one female Hermann's tortoises; diamondback terrapin; one very friendly hedgehog; and a male co*ckatiel. We must sell all. Numerous tanks, stands, cages, strip lights and various other supplies available. Please call (708) 913-0349. Leave name and phone number with the best time to reach you. We will return all calls. Serious inquiries only! For sale: c.h. 9/92: Everglades ratsnakes from outstanding new pairing, the male turned orange faster than any I've seen. Both parents are exceptionally bright orange with little or no striping, $40 each; black pine snakes, $50 each; Queretaro (Ruthven's) kingsnakes, $100 each; 2' male Colombian boa, $75. Marcia or Bill, (602) 744^211. [AZ] For sale: quality captive-bred reptiles. Snow corns, $75/pair; one male Nelson's milksnake, $55; three banded Cal. kings, $75/trio; Pueblan milks, $75 regular, $90 sockheads; Arizona mountain kings, $110. (314) 442-6541. [Columbia MO area] For sale: two male Mexican milksnakes, Lampropeltis triangulum annulata, c.b. '92, $60 each. Rick, (815) 825-2176. For sale; two male and two female Brazilian rainbow boas, c.b. '92, nice color and crescents, $500/pair; two male and two female Nelson's milksnakes, c.b. '92, $200/pair; one male and four female Greer's kings, c.b. '92, very nice color, $150 each; one male and one female albino/hetero bullsnakes (female is albino), c.b. '91, $500/pair; one male and one female trinket snakes, Elaphe hclena, c.b. '92, beautiful, $175/pair; two male and two female albino prairie kings, c.b. '91, $175/pair; two male and four female bullsnakes, c.b. '92, some Texas, some Illinois, $25-35. Numerous other kings and rat snakes available. Chris, (619) 287-3937. [San Diego] For sale: 1992 captive produced babies: rubber boas, $100; western hognoses [permit required in Illinois], $30; albino prairie kings (some striping), $75; albino speckled kings, $50; Lampropeltis mexicana thayeri, $100-125; Pueblans, $80-100; Sinaloans, $75; black pines, $75; northern pines, $60; bullsnakes, $15; one male L. pyromelana knoblochi, $300; one male L. zonata agalma, $225. Also, one male and one female northern pines, c.h. 1989, proven breeders the past two years, $300/pair. For free price list: West Texas Reptiles, 6401 University, Lubbock TX 79413, (806) 794-7816. For sale: 13'+ female Burmese python, proven breeder, has laid 40 eggs, old neck scar, but nice pattern, $475; 2\' iguana, beautiful, great eater and completely tame, $125. (412)346-3032. [PA] For sale: a perfect exhibit animal. A female Burmese python, over 16' and somewhere around 175 pounds. She has no scars and is baby tame. She has been around kids and crowds. Tim Swain, 902 Ash Street, Broomfield CO 80020, (303) 465-5823. For sale: one male and one female red-tail boas, both 6' + , beautiful red tails, orange and pink highlights on lower sides. I have owned them both for 4i years. Good body weight, eating well, healthy and totally tame. Female has scar on neck about 6" long by one-eighth inch wide. $475 firm for the pair. Well worth it. Photos available upon request. If in Connecticut area, give me a call & stop by to see them. Robert, (203) 254-0822. For sale: mid-Baja rosy boas (gray ground color with distinct orange stripes), $300/pair. Also, choice Burmese python babies still available including pattemless albinos, pattemless greens, hets for pattemless green, and normals. Still a few babies out of white Burmese bred to her brother. Midwest Reptile Breeders, Ron Goodman, 4819 Pommel Place, West Des Moines 50265, (515) 225-8876. For sale: one male and one female carpet pythons, c.b. '92, unrelated, great feeders, $250/pair. Bill Smith, 4031 Rcid Road, Tobaccoville NC 27050, (919) 983-5418. For sale: baby common boas, c.b. 7/31/92, all are healthy and feeding on prekillcd hopper mice, $100 each, $17S/pair, quantity discounts available. Hugh Gilbert, (618) 935-2188. For sale: Colombian boas. Boa constrictor ssp., c.b. 4/92, healthy and feeding on mice, $100. Jack Phillips, (708) 7244552 evenings.

245

Advertisem*nts (cont'd) For sale: 5-6' Colombian boa, $175. Brian, (312) 581-3572. For sale: Argentine boas, Boa constrictor occidentalis, bom 6/23/92, from unrelated parents, $1500/pair. Bill Brant, (904) 495-9024. [FL] For sale: one male and one female c.b. unrelated Boa constrictor occidentalis, $1300/pair; one c.b. female B. c. occidentalis, $700; one male and one female c.b. unrelated Guyanan redtail boas, good color, $700/pair; one male and four female c.b Colombian "redtail" boas, pick of the litter, $100-125 each; c.b. female yellow anaconda, good orange background, $175; one male c.h. Australian amethystine python (kinghomi), 3 years old, $1000; one male and one female emerald tree boas, well established, $800/pair; Cal. kings: b&w deserts, $45 each, lavender ruby-eyes, $60 each; albino striped Pacific gophers, $140/pair; milksnakes: abnorma, tangerine-banded (not a cross), $175 each; annulata, $60 each; campbelli, $60-90 each, sockheads $125-150 each; one male and one female conanti (inquire), $600/pair; Hondurans, top tangerines, $150-250 each. Scott J. Michaels, D.V.M., P.O. Box 657, Island Lake IL 60042, (815) 363-0290. For sale; private reptile collection, $3300 for the following animals: three female reticulated pythons, one 90 lbs. / 17', one 13', one 7' (all "goldheads"); a pair of Brazilian rainbow boas; a pair of Borneo blood pythons; juvenile male African rock python; c.b. juvenile male Peruvian boa; two 5' male Guyanan boas; 10' male Burmese python; pair of adult northem pines. Will consider individual sales. Steve Faust, (803) 462-7805. [SC] For sale: one male and one female ringed pythons, IJasis boa, c.h. 8/91, unrelated, female is banded, male is striped, $3200/pair; one male and one female Dominican clouded boas, Boa constrictor nebulosus, c.b. 8/92, unrelated, $900/pair; two male and four female Durango mountain kings, Lampropeltis mexicana greeri, breeding colony, prefer to sell as a group, $2000/group; one male and one female Mexican milks, c.h. 1987, $250/pair. This year's hatchlings: one male and three female Children's pythons, $125; four male gray-banded kings, wide banded Blair's phase, $90; four male and four female Pueblan milks, $75. Trades for green tree pythons considered. Ray de la Pena, P.O. Box 3, Elyria OH 44036, (216) 365-2239 after 7:00 P.1V1. For sale: c.b. male Colombian rainbow boa, bom 2/92, good eater, nice pattern, can deliver to meeting, $120. Steve Spitzer, (312) 262-1847. For sale: juvenile male Brazilian rainbow boa, c.b. 5/92 from iridescent, red/orange adults, feeding well, $275. Can bring to CHS meeting. Rich, (708) 5064292 days, (312) 2624392 evenings. For sale: anerythristic boas, $300 to $600 each; rosy boas; kingsnakes; rat snakes; available April-December. Also, shoe box, sweater box, storage box units and custom-built herp cages. SASE for price list to: IRRPREL Manufacturing & Design, P.O. Box 5726, Whittier CA 90607, or call Glen at (310) 944-6719, best rime 7 P.M. - 8 P.M. Free price list: specializing in outstanding Pueblan milksnakes and Brazilian rainbow boas. Send S.A.S.E. to Scott Schuett, 1820 Bigelow Street, Toledo OH 43613, (419) 473-0518. Wanted: pink-tongue skinks, Tiliqua gerrardi, young, subadults, adults. Chris M. Serrone, 225 Broadway, Suite 2001, New York NY 10007, (212) 732-3355 or after 8:00 P.M. (718) 351-9657. Wanted: adult male Children's python for breeding purposes only. I have beautiful adult female waiting for love. Dennis, (708) 442-7414 (office). Wanted: male boa constrictor from Panama Canal Zone or information on obtaining same. Collection data and photos necessary. Will reimburse for photos. Marcia or Bill, (602) 7444211. [AZ] Wanted: adult female eastern milksnake; adult male and female Pueblan milksnakes. Brian, (312) 581-3572. Wanted: one female black D'Albert's python. (607) 264-3441. [NY] Wanted: all types of iguanas. Cyclura; Iguana; Ctenosaura; Dipsosaurus. Ask for James, (305) 4344959. [FL] Wanted: any information on breeding: Dipsosaurus dorsalis; northem Elaphe such as vrlpina and obsoleta; Lampropeltis getula floridana. It would be greatly appreciated. C. Richmond Saroch, 371 Cameron Street, Saraia, Ontario NTT 4B7, Canada, (519) 336-3082. Wanted: rare and unique lizards! Call or write Ray's Reptiles, P.O. Box 4732, Lincoln NE 68504-0473. Call Monday-Saturday, (402) 477-1975, eves. Wanted: —currently breeding 20 species of Phelsuma; 2 species of Rhacodactylus; as well as Bavayia; Geckonia; hom*opholis; and Uroplatus. Any help you could provide conceming breeding info or acquisition of new animals would be greatly appreciated. Frank Fast, 2701 S. 11th, Lincoln NE 68502, (402) 477-9310. Wanted: the CHS Book Service is always in need of styrofoam "peanuts" for packaging shipments. Don't discard them; recycle by bringing them to Joan Moore at any monthly meeting.

Line ads in this publication are run free for CHS members -^$2 per line for nonmembers. Any ad may be refused at the discretion of the Editor.

Submit ads to: Michael Dloogatch, 6048 N. Lawndale Avenue, Chicago IL 60659, (312) 588-0728.

Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27(11):246. 1992 246

The Tympanum Having received a copy of your Bulletin, Volume 27, Number 6, June 1992, we feel it is necessary to let you know that there is some inaccuracy in the paper of G. Scott Allen and Karel Fortyn, "The Central Asian Cobra, Naja axiana (Eichwald, 1831): Maintenance in Captivity and a Report of a First Captive Breeding," published in your Bulletin on pp. 129-131. We have already published the data on breeding this species some time earlier in the easily available International Zoo Yearbook (1989) 28:199-204. Besides, these materials were published in the same year in the Proceedings of the First World Congress of Herpetology in Canterbury S. Kudryavtsev, Curator of Reptiles, and S. Mamet, Assistant Curator, Moscow Zoo, B. Gruzinskaya 1, 123820 Moscow, Russia

Regarding the article on "How to Buy a Reptile" by Stephen Barten, D.V.M. [Bull. Chicago Herp. Soc. 27(9):182-187]: I agree with Dr. Barten on many points, except the reliance of pet shop owners to help with care and husbandry questions. I'm always checking out various stores and I have found one who gives out care sheets on iguanas. Most try to be knowl­edgeable but the information needs to be combined with many other sources or taken with a grain of salt. One pet store advertises on radio, television and in the news­papers. On visiting this store, one finds box turtles without

water, a chameleon, whose tongue had gotten caught in a branch, stuck with his mouth open trying to get the withered string back into his mouth. While salespeople were over­heard that chameleons only live six months, even in the wild. Being an informed "herp owner" I know enough to research with a good book rather than rely on places that I mentioned. But there are many naive people [who] just walk in and accept this "information" as gospel and also the "set up" of tanks etc. as being the proper way to keep these animals. I have been "suckered" in on occasion to take a few of these animals home. It probably does perpetuate the cycle of selling animals; sick or healthy, someone will buy them. But where and how will it stop? Jodi Paulsen, 309 S. Oakland, Villa Park IL 60181.

With the popularity of Reptile & Amphibian Magazine, the A.F.H. Vivarium, and the new Captive Breeding magazine with their articles and great color photographs, I think the CHS should consider printing color photographs in the Bulletin. I realize it is more expensive, but you may have to in order to survive against these publications. In the last two Bulletins there were only three photographs anyway Sincerely, Roger Carter (a very loyal CHS member), 625 Lakeview Drive, Zionsville IN 46077.

iL G l A D E S imZPi ^P.O. Box 3207 • North Ft. Myers, Flor ida 33918 (U.S.A.) i HOURS: 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m. M o n d a y - Saturday m J CALL: 813-543-6100 • FAX; 813-543-7480

247

Unofficial Minutes of the CHS Board Meeting, October 9,1992 The meeting was called to order by Vice-president John Mur­phy at 7:56 P.M . Board members Tony Janowski and Jack Schoenfelder were absent.

Adoption: Ben Entwisle reported that nearly 100 animals have been transferred to new homes as of September 30. The most frequently unwanted animal is the green iguana.

Officers' Reports: The minutes of the Sepember board meeting were approved as corrected. Treasury: The Treasurer's report was accepted as submitted by Ralph Shepstone. The combined balance stands at $30,341.54 as of September 30,1992. The problem of bad checks was discussed. Membership: Steve Spitzer reported membership to stand at 2046—a new record. Mike Dloogatch moved to set up a standing cash advance to the Membership Secretary in an amount not to exceed $50. Ron Humbert seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

Standing Committee Reports: Director of Sales: Mike Dloogatch reported for Joan Moore that her trip to the San Diego Reptile Breeders Show was a moderate success. Programs: One hundred seventy-four people attended the September general meeting. The October and November meetings will be held in the Simpson Theatre as the smaller auditorium is reserved by other groups. The premeeting "short" program was discussed: general consensus—it went well! Ron Humbert will give a "short" on hibernating reptiles. John Murphy has already given the Field Museum a list of proposed 1993 general meeting dates. Board meeting dates need to be set. Raffle: The September raffle went very well. Ron Humbert presented a letter from Paul Braun who donated a stained glass frog to the raffle. It was accepted to the main raffle with many thanks to Paul.

THE GOURMET! RODENT RATS AND MICE

FOR YOUR HERPS BILL BRANT

6115 SW 137th Ave. ARCHER FL 32618

(904) 495-9024

Ad Hoc Committee Reports: Nominating Committee: Dottie Humbert reported the fol­lowing nominations from the floor at the September meeting: Ben Entwisle, Tony Janowski, Scott Michaels and Tony Ratlin; all for Member-at-large. Dottie and the board ex­pressed disappointment in the minimal nominations from the floor. Chuck Keating and Ron Humbert suggested re­addressing the possibility of creating additional Member-at-large positions. Pros and cons of this were discussed.

Old Business:

No old business was discussed.

New Business: Valentine Equipment Corporation has purchased the CHS mailing list as in years past. The meeting adjourned at 9:33 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Stacy L. Miller, Recording Secretary

A FULL COLOR. QUARTERLY MAGAZINE WRITTEN FOR AND BY HERPETOCULTURISTS.

SUBSCRIPTION Start my quarterly subscript ion to CAPTIVE BREEDING. Name: Address:_ City: State: _Zip:_ Telephone #:_ One year subscription:

S20.00 / U.S. - $30.00 / Foreign Make check payable to:

CAPTIVE BREBDING Fill out subscription or Just mail payment with name, full address and telephone number to:

CAPTIVE BREEDING P.O. 8 7 1 0 0

CANTON, Ml 4 8 1 8 7 ( 3 1 3 ) 4 5 4 - 0 7 0 0

248

H E R P - A C R O S n C by Mike Dloogatch 9 U 10 G 11 R 12 D 13 Q 14 H 15 L 16 A M 17 M 18 H | £ > « 19 C 20 H 21 G

31 N 32 K 33 M 34 O 35 L 36 K M 37 N 38 V 3 40 A 41 U 42 O

52 S 53 W > ^ 54 B 55 0 M 56 U 57 W l58 A 59 D 80 E | i 61 R 62 F 83 T

73 J 74 V 75 B 76 H 77 78 S 79 W 80 L St X S 82 ? 83 M

B2 T 93 P 94 J 95 W 96 97 C 98 F 99 a 100 1 101 J 102 B 103 M

113 K 114 C 115 L ( , J ^ 1 1 6 P 117 S 118 D 119 U 120 U 121 X 122 M 123 N 124 K 125 E

134 S 135 B

155 C

138 G H 137 K 138 A 138 R 140 1 141 G 142 D

163 V

143 0 144 N 145 J

• 154 F 155 C 156 A 157 M 158 U 159 G 160 T 11; 181 J 162 K 163 V ^•?^«ai64 E 1 165 A

|174 R 175 G 176 B 177 H 178 J 179 C 180 M

How to solve this puzzle: The diagram, when filled in, will contain a quotation from a published work on herpetology. The numbered squares in the diagram correspond to the numbered blanks under the WORDS. The WORDS form an acrostic: the first letter of each spells the name of the author and the title of the work from which the quotation is taken. The letter in the upper right-hand corner of each square indicates the WORD containing the letter to be entered in that square. The solution will appear in next month's Bulletin. Send in the correct solution and win a one-year extension to your CHS membership. See inside back cover for contest rules.

CLUES A. Author of The Reptiles of

Ohio and many other publications (full name).

B. Aussie term for a monitor lizard.

C. Where many of us keep our animals (2 words).

D. Tadpole (variant spelling).

B. Where one might expect to find Sphaerodactylus notatus.

F. Jungle runner.

G. Any of a group of Old World lizards having a laterally compressed body, prehensile tail and opposed digits.

H. Mummichog.

I. Pertaining to an immature amphibian, for example.

J. A small sled, often made from the fork of a tree, used as an aid in skidding logs.

K. Any snake of the genus Causus (2 words).

L. Any lizard of the genus Phelsuma (2 words).

M. A burrowing chelonian of the southeastern U.S. (2 words).

WORDS T3T"22T47T38 58 40 T 6 5 l F 8 5

l56 27

102 TT 26" 135 54 176

T07T79WT9" 96 6 5 T l 4 1 5 5 4 6

i y 3 9 " m T l 8 1 4 2 T ' l 0 5 59"

125 68 60 164

"91154 M 62 W 127

1 0 ' l M 1 3 6 2 r T 7 5 1 4 l 9 9 1 5 9 4 8

•76T4T26l0T46TF841T7"6r

ITT 64" 100 169 30 140

1 6 T ' 7 r 7 3 " r i 4 5 T 0 1 9 4 m 2 9

162 43 129 133 3 124 113 32 36 137

"23 15112115 35 92 80 15

8 3 T f l ^ ~ r m T 5 3 " 3 3 " 2 4 T 2 8 132 "47 157 180 X

N. Like the scales of a rainbow boa, for example.

O. A mass nesting of the sort that occurs in certain populations of ridley sea turtles.

P. Any of various small semiaquatjc salamanders. Q. In Chinese philosophy, the

ordering principle of the universe.

R. A scale lying on the side of the head, between the nasals and preoculars.

S. A tribe of southern India, the men of which are renowned for their snake-catching skills.

T. Girdle-tailed lizard.

U. Aztec word for neotenic salamanders of the genus Ambystoma, found typically in Mexican mountain lakes.

V. Adjective used to describe turtles of the genus Kachuga.

W. Those who are careless with venomous snakes may well harbor this (2 words).

X. The way of a _ _ _ _ upon a rock (Proverbs 30:19, King James Version).

144 171 49 112 130 77 37 123 31

T49 34'166"88"143T72"42"82"

"89" 168 116 "93"

13 "69 55"

44 20 174 TT 139 eT

117 "52 106 134

"63 152 ^ 148 160 "45

120 "9~ TTO 56 "4r 158 119

18 74 sT "90 "7" 163

66r7057"87T09 2 5 " l 9 5 T 9 S

167 "sT 67 12l 28" l50 50"

UPCOMING MEETINGS The next meeting of the Chicago Herpetological Society will be held at 7:30 P .M. , Wedne.sday, November 25, at the Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lake Shore Drive, in Chicago. The annual election of officers and members-at-large of the CHS Board of Directors will be held at this meeting. During the intervals while the ballots are being tallied and after the elections are over, there will be a panel of veterinarians on stage to field questions from the audience. We are required to use the entrance on the west side of the museum. The main entrances at the north and south ends of the building will not be open. We have permission to use the staff parking lot to the west of the museum. Entrance to this lot is from McFetridge Drive, the wide street just to the south which lies between the museum and Soldier Field. There is also ample free parking available in the lot to the north of the museum. Those of you who use public transportation can take the #146 bus directly to the museum. Unfortunately, this bus does not operate after 9:00 P.M. However, after the program anyone needing a ride to a bus or rapid transit stop will have no trouble finding one—just ask any board member. Turtle Club The Chicago Turtle Club will meet Sunday, November 22, 1:00-3:30 P .M. , at the Emmerson Park Fieldhouse, 1820 W. Granville Avenue, Chicago. CONTEST RULES Send in the correct solution to the Herp-Acrostic puzzle on the facing page. Send the quotation, the title of the work and the author's name, together with your name and address to the Chicago Herpetological Society, Herp-Acrostic, 2001 N. Clark Street, Chicago IL 60614. The contest is open to CHS members only. Entries must be received by December 11. The sender of the first correct solution opened at random will receive a one-year extension to his or her CHS membership.

THE ADVENTURES OF SPOT

NONPROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 9869

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

CHICAGO HERPETOLOGICAL SOCIETYAffiliated with the Chicago Academy of Sciences

2001 North Clark Street • Chicago, Illinois 60614