Reptiles Magazine, your source for reptile and herp care, breeding, and enthusiast articles
Reduced Hydroperiods Enhance California Tiger Salamander Populations Over Hybrids
Frog & Amphibians Information & News
Reducing the hydroperiods in zones where the hybrid salamanders were dominant led to population collapse. The post Reduced Hydroperiods Enhance California Tiger Salamander Populations Over Hybrids appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
The native California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) has been negatively affected by the invasive barred tiger salamander (Ambystoma mavortium) in its native regions and researchers believe that extended hydroperiods (the duration in which a wetland or other soil area stays flooded or water logged during the year) benefit the hybrids of these two species more than the native species. The researchers have found that agricultural and livestock ponds in which these amphibians use have experienced, by design, longer durations of hydroperiods. This in turn has benefited the non-native species as their offspring are higher in these ponds than the native salamanders. <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125541" class="wp-image-125541 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000.jpg" alt="California tiger salamander" width="1000" height="563" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-400x225.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-650x366.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-250x141.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-768x432.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-150x84.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/California_Tiger_Salamander1000-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> California tiger salamander. Photo by USFWS “Hybrids often consume nearly all other species in a pond,” said Robert Cooper, assistant professor in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation and lead author of the study. “By the end of a season, you’re often left with only hybrids.” The researchers cite in their study that previous studies have confirmed the fact that the extended hydroperiods benefit the hybrids over the native salamanders, and shortened hydroperiods benefited the native California tiger salamander. The shortened period reduced but didn’t eliminate the hybrid advantage, so while the manipulation of the hydroperiod won’t singlehandedly remove the non-native and hybrids from the area of the native species, it could be the most effective management tool available to reduce the prevalence of the non-native and hybrid salamanders. California’s Super Hybrid Salamander Dilemma The three year study involved 18 experimental ponds in which the researchers studied salamander growth and survival. They looked at genetic, ecological and demographic data and took that data to simulate how the effects would change over time in various scenarios. They determined that hydroperiods of long durations (nearly four months) led to larger and more stable populations while durations of less than 90 days led to salamander population collapse regardless if the population was native, hybrid, or invasive. Hybrid Strategy The best strategy, the researchers wrote, was keeping ponds in native zones wet longer and reducing the hydroperiods in zones where the hybrid salamanders were dominant. Combining these water management practices with rapid genetic testing will help to target removal and slow the spread of the hybrid salamanders and better protect the natives. The complete study, “Building genomically-informed demographic models to guide management of invasive hybrids” can be read on the Ecological Applications website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Freduced-hydroperiods-enhance-california-tiger-salamander-populations-over-hybrids%2F&title=Reduced%20Hydroperiods%20Enhance%20California%20Tiger%20Salamander%20Populations%20Over%20Hybrids" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/reduced-hydroperiods-enhance-california-tiger-salamander-populations-over-hybrids/" data-a2a-title="Reduced Hydroperiods Enhance California Tiger Salamander Populations Over Hybrids"> The post Reduced Hydroperiods Enhance California Tiger Salamander Populations Over Hybrids appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
How to Ship Your Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish and Invertebrates
Shipping live animals, such as reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, can pose challenges at any time of year. The post How to Ship Your Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish and Invertebrates appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Shipping live animals, such as reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, can pose challenges at any time of year. We often hear concerns about shipping animals during the cold of winter, but summer heat also presents challenges that need special attention. These creatures are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so ensuring their safety during transit requires careful planning. Red-eyed treefrogs require frequent misting so they don’t dry out. photo by Jason mnz/shutterstock Here are some general guidelines we have compiled to help transport these animals safely. Safe shipping temperature guidelines must be met at the shipping origin, along with the shipping destination, as well as in any major shipping hubs likely to handle your shipment. These guidelines can also be helpful when transporting a new animal home. 1. Temperature Requirements Research the optimal temperature range for the animals you are shipping and ensure that these conditions can be maintained throughout the journey. There are specific temperature requirements for certain species, and failing to meet these standards can lead to problems. Adhere to the correct temperature protocols for the animal you intend to ship. Here are some generalized recommendations for temperature guidelines when shipping different animals: Amphibians: Below 38°F: Do not ship. Wait for warmer weather. 38°F to 59°F: Use a heat pack. 60°F to 79°F: Do not use a heat pack. 80°F to 92°F: Use a cold pack. 92°F to 100°F: Ship to a “FedEx Ship Center” facility only. Over 95°F: Do not ship. Wait for cooler weather. Reptiles: Below 38°F: Do not ship. Wait for warmer weather. 38°F to 69°F: Use a heat pack that lasts at least 40 hours. 70°F to 91°F: Do not use a heat pack. 92°F to 100°F: Ship to a “FedEx Ship Center” facility only. Over 95°F: Do not ship. Wait for cooler weather. Invertebrates: (terrestrial/arboreal): Below 38°F: Do not ship, wait for warmer weather. 38°F to 65°F: Use a heat pack. 66°F to 91°F: Do not use a heat pack. 92°F to 100°F: Ship to a “FedEx Ship Center” facility only. Over 100°F: Do not ship. Wait for cooler weather. Tropical Fish/Corals: Below 40°F: Do not ship, wait for warmer weather. 40°F to 69°F: Use a heat pack. 70°F to 79°F: Do not use a heat pack. 80°F to 89°F: Use a cold pack. 90°F to 95°F: Ship to a “FedEx Ship Center” facility only. Over 95°F: Do not ship. Wait for cooler weather. Axolotls/Cold Water Fish: Below 30°F: Do not ship, wait for warmer weather. 30°F to 49°F: Use a heat pack. 50°F to 69°F: Do not use a heat pack or a cold pack. 70°F to 79°F: Use a cold pack. 80°F to 85°F: Ship to a “FedEx Ship Center” facility only. Over 85°F: Do not ship. Wait for cooler weather. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-115563" class="wp-image-115563 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Reversedstriped-albino-CaliforniaKingsnake-1000-fivespots-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> A reversed stripe albino California kingsnake. Photo by Fivespots/Shutterstock 2. Insulation Insulation is crucial for protecting animals from dangerous temperature fluctuations. Use insulated shipping boxes with foam inserts to maintain a stable internal temperature. Line the inside of the box with a thermal barrier, such as several sheets of newspaper or similar padding, to provide extra insulation. Proper substrate, moisture sources, or even hygroscopic materials may need to be supplied to keep excess moisture at bay for some animals. 3. Adding Warmth Heat packs are essential for keeping the shipping container warm. Choose heat packs that last between 40 and 72 hours. Position them in the box to ensure they do not come into direct contact with the animal containers. 4. Cold Packs Cold packs may be necessary for some animals that could be harmed by excess heat. These packs often require several hours of preparation prior to use for shipping. Cold packs must be placed in the box to ensure they do not come into direct contact with the animal containers. 5. Secure and Label Containers Ensure all containers are securely closed to prevent accidental escapes. Clearly label the package with “Live Animals”, “Keep Warm”, and “This Side Up” to alert handlers to its contents and special handling requirements. 6. Shipping Services Select a shipping service that specializes in handling live animals. Overnight shipping is highly recommended to minimize the time animals spend in transit. Monitor weather conditions in advance, and avoid shipping during severe weather events. It is preferable to ship from Monday to Wednesday for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday. 7. Include Necessary Acclimation Instructions Include instructions for the recipient on how to properly acclimate the animals upon arrival. This should explain how to gradually adjust the animals to room temperature to prevent shock. 8. Communicate Stay in touch with the shipping service to track the shipment’s progress. Share the tracking information and estimated arrival times with the recipient to ensure someone is available to receive the package. Conclusion Shipping reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates requires care and attention to weather conditions throughout the year. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that animals arrive at their destination safely and in good health. Careful preparation and consistent communication are essential! <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fhow-to-ship-your-reptiles-amphibians-fish-and-invertebrates%2F&title=How%20to%20Ship%20Your%20Reptiles%2C%20Amphibians%2C%20Fish%20and%20Invertebrates" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/how-to-ship-your-reptiles-amphibians-fish-and-invertebrates/" data-a2a-title="How to Ship Your Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish and Invertebrates"> The post How to Ship Your Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish and Invertebrates appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Both frog species are only known by the type locality and are narrowly distributed in the Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park. The post Two Frogs Native to Peru Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Researchers have described two frogs from the genus Phrynopus that are known to occur in the Cordillera de Yanachaga, Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park in central Peru. The frogs join 13 frogs in the Phrynopus genus, including P. apumantarum, P. badius, P. barthlenae, P. bracki, P. bufoides, P. horstpauli, P. inti, P. kauneorum, P. miroslawae, P. pesantesi, P. sancristobali, P. tautzorum, and Phrynopus sp. The researchers say they are distinct lineages within the subclass and not close sisters. Beginner’s Guide To Poison Frog Care The first species, Phrynopus manuelriosi sp. nov. is a medium sized frog with small tubercles on its upper eyelids, heels and along the outer edge of its tarsus (main part of the hindlimb and the metatarsus in terrestrial vertebrates. It is red in coloration in the groin and thigh area as well as the concealed surfaces of the shank area. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125526" class="wp-image-125526 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi.jpg" alt="Phrynopus manuelriosi" width="1000" height="1000" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-400x400.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-650x650.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-250x250.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-768x768.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-150x150.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-manuelriosi-800x800.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Figure 4: Paratypes of Phrynopus manuelriosi sp. nov. in life. (A) Dorsolateral (B) lateral (showing the groin and anterior surface of thigh), and (C) ventral views of CORBIDI 7380 (SVL 25.6 mm); (D) dorsolateral, (E) dorsal (showing a fine pale middorsal band, red groin, and the red anterior and posterior surface of thigh), and (F) ventral views of CORBIDI 7383 (SVL 27.1 mm); (G) dorsolateral and (H) ventral views of male paratype CORBIDI 7390 (SVL 13.2 mm); (I) dorsolateral and (J) ventral views of male paratype CORBIDI 7386 (SVL 17.4 mm); (K) dorsolateral view of female CORBIDI 7387 (SVL 19.4 mm); (L) dorsolateral view of male CORBIDI 7381 (SVL 16.1 mm). The second species, Phrynopus melanoinguinis. sp. nov. doesn’t have tubercles in the heels and tarsal area and is black in coloration in the groin area and in the hidden surfaces behind the hind limbs. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125525" class="wp-image-125525 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-melanoinguinis-sp-nov1000.jpg" alt="Phrynopus melanoinguinis" width="403" height="1000" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-melanoinguinis-sp-nov1000.jpg 403w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-melanoinguinis-sp-nov1000-400x993.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-melanoinguinis-sp-nov1000-250x620.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Phrynopus-melanoinguinis-sp-nov1000-150x372.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 403px) 100vw, 403px" /> Figure 6: Holotype of Phrynopus melanoinguinis. sp. nov. (CORBIDI 7379) in life. (A) Dorsolateral, (B) lateral (showing the characteristic black coloration on the groin), and (C) ventral views (SVL 23.6 mm). Both species are only known by the type locality and are narrowly distributed in the Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park. The complete paper describing the two species can be read on the PeerJ Journal. The post Two Frogs Native to Peru Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Scientists Create Venomous Snake Antivenin with Help of Alpacas
The scientists are looking for an antivenin that is less costly than traditional antivenins and have greater efficacy against more species of venomous snakes. The post Scientists Create Venomous Snake Antivenin with Help of Alpacas appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
An international group of scientists have developed a venomous snake antivenin (or antivenom) that could reduce the number of snakebite deaths in sub-Saharan Africa using antibodies from alpacas, South American Camelid mammals that are related to llamas. The scientists are looking for an antivenin that is less costly than traditional antivenins and have greater efficacy against more species of venomous snakes. They immunized an alpaca and a llama with the venoms of 18 venomous snake species, including cobras, mambas and rinkhals. This enabled them to create phage display libraries and also gave them the capability to identify “high-affinity broadly neutralizing nanobodies,” basically antibodies. Video: King Cobra Devours Smaller King Cobra In Singapore <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Video: King Cobra Devours Smaller King Cobra In Singapore” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/video-king-cobra-devours-smaller-king-cobra-in-singapore/embed/#?secret=4RRYPErLZk#?secret=ietjgUdT0J" data-secret="ietjgUdT0J" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> The scientists then combined 8 of the nanobodies in what is called an oligoclonal mixture, or slightly different but related antibodies that resulted in an experimental polyvalent recombinant antivenin. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-115489" class="wp-image-115489 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531.jpeg" alt="Egyptian cobra" width="712" height="534" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531.jpeg 712w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531-400x300.jpeg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531-650x488.jpeg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531-250x188.jpeg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/snouted-cobra-shutterstock750607531-150x113.jpeg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" /> The Egyptian cobra is also known as the snouted cobra. Photo by NickEvansKZN/Shuttertstock This antivenin, the scientists say in their paper, successfully neutralized seven toxin families or subfamilies. It prevented venom-induced lethality in vivo across 17 elapid snake species. It also reduced venom-induced “dermonecrosis for all tested cytotoxic venoms,” the researchers wrote. It was so successful, the researchers noted, that it performed better than currently used plasma-derived antivenom. Universal Venomous Snake Antivenin Could Be Within Reach <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Universal Venomous Snake Antivenin Could Be Within Reach” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/universal-venomous-snake-antivenin-could-be-within-reach/embed/#?secret=amEOXBJViY#?secret=470FttRBzk" data-secret="470FttRBzk" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> The researchers believe that an antivenin can be derived from their research that will provide comprehensive, continent wide protection against snake bites of all African venomous snakes. The complete paper, “Nanobody-based recombinant antivenom for cobra, mamba and rinkhals bites,” can be read on the Nature Journal website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fscientists-create-venomous-snake-antivenin-with-help-of-alpacas%2F&title=Scientists%20Create%20Venomous%20Snake%20Antivenin%20with%20Help%20of%20Alpacas" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/scientists-create-venomous-snake-antivenin-with-help-of-alpacas/" data-a2a-title="Scientists Create Venomous Snake Antivenin with Help of Alpacas"> The post Scientists Create Venomous Snake Antivenin with Help of Alpacas appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
New Gecko Species Covered In Tubercles Discovered In India
While Hemidactylus quartziticolus is its scientific name, it is suggested that its common names be Quartzite brookiish gecko or Thoothukudi brookiish gecko. The post New Gecko Species Covered In Tubercles Discovered In India appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Researchers have discovered and described a new species of Hemidactylus lizard from the Thoothukudi District, Tamil Nadu in India. The lizard is notable because, according to the researchers, it features the most densely packed tubercles of all Indian Hemidactylus lizards. The new species, Hemidactylus quartziticolus sp. nov. is only known to occur in two low, quartzite hillocks that are 45 km away from each other, residing in scrubby thorn forests and loose and stony soil, according to the paper describing the species. While Hemidactylus quartziticolus is its scientific name, it is suggested that its common names be Quartzite brookiish gecko or Thoothukudi brookiish gecko. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125518" class="wp-image-125518 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100-.jpg" alt="Hemidactylus quartziticolus" width="1000" height="1476" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100-.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--400x590.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--650x959.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--250x369.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--768x1134.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--150x221.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Hemidactylus100--800x1181.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Hemidactylus quartziticolus sp. nov. in life: A male, holotype NRC-AA-1256, B female, paratype NRC-AA-1264, and C uncollected juvenile. Photos by Akshay Khandekar. The lizard is a small-sized Hemidactylus with a snout to vent length of less than 57mm. It is covered from head to the beginning of the tail in tubercles, including the front and rear legs. The tail features spike like protrusions starting from the beginning of the tail to the tip. The gecko is brown in coloration with streaks that appear anterior to the eye. The head, body and tail feature black blotches with x shaped markings that occur through the spots across the center of the back and anterior hindlimbs. Three Day Geckos From Madagascar The complete paper, “A remarkable new species of gecko (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Hemidactylus) from scrublands at the southern tip of India” can be read on the Vertebrate Zoology website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fnew-gecko-species-covered-in-tubercles-discovered-in-india%2F&title=New%20Gecko%20Species%20Covered%20In%20Tubercles%20Discovered%20In%20India" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/new-gecko-species-covered-in-tubercles-discovered-in-india/" data-a2a-title="New Gecko Species Covered In Tubercles Discovered In India"> The post New Gecko Species Covered In Tubercles Discovered In India appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
163 Reptiles Headed to Mexico Seized At Southern Border
The seizure occurred when officers encountered a silver Toyota truck that was attempting to leave the United States for Mexico The post 163 Reptiles Headed to Mexico Seized At Southern Border appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
More than 163 reptiles, spiders and centipedes were seized October 22 by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Anzalduas International Bridge in Texas. The seizure occurred when officers encountered a driver in a silver Toyota truck who was attempting to leave the United States for Mexico and was selected for further inspection. Upon inspection, officers seized: 24) Royal Pythons (15) Green Anoles (11) Spotted Salamanders (10) Sick Red Eye Tree Frogs (10) Albino Milk Snakes (10) Orange Milk Snakes (10) Mexican Black King Snakes (4) Monarch Ball Pythons (4) Tarantulas (3) Pacman Frogs (yellow) (3) Coffee Pacman Frogs (3) Chilean Rose Tarantulas (3) Irian Jaya Blue Tongued Skinks (3) Bearded Dragons (3) Savannah Monitors (3) Rankin Dragons (3) Albino Aberrant Calif. King Snakes (3) Albino Banded Calif. King Snakes (3) Albino Striped Calif. King Snakes (3) Albino/Amelanistic Corn Snakes (3) Black Corn Snakes (2) Ball Pythons (2) Honduran Milk Snakes (2) Ornate Monitor Lizards (2) Chinese Caved Geckos (2) Veiled Chameleons (2) Centipedes (2) Green Tree Pythons (2) High White Calif. King Snakes (1) Timor Python (1) Carpet Python (1) Garter Snake (1) Banana Blade Clown (1) Banana Spotnose (1) Pinstripe Ball Python (1) Fire Skink (1) Indian Star Tortoise (1) Ghost Aztec Jungle Boa (1) Female Juvenile Axanthic Banana Ball Python (1) Female Juvenile Axanthic Banana Lesser Ball Python (1) Juvenile Axanthic Lesser Ball Python (1) Juvenile Axanthic Ball Python (1) Juvenile Ghost Piebald Ball Python (1) Juvenile Piebald Ball Python (1) Male Juvenile Axanthic Banana Enchi Ball Python “The smuggling of exotic pets has been on the rise in our area, and we work closely with our partners of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect and preserve these creatures and ensure that importations and exportations of wildlife adhere to all applicable federal requirements,” Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry said in a statement released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-99544" class="wp-image-99544 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663.jpg" alt="Ball Python" width="712" height="534" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663.jpg 712w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" /> RAYphotographer/Shutterstock The driver of the Toyota was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations special agents and the truck was seized. A criminal investigation was launched. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have taken custody of the seized animals. According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the lawful importation or exportation of wildlife requires a completed declaration of exportation of fish or wildlife and must be carried out through a designated port. Clearance from the USFWS is also required. A federally-accredited veterinarian needs to complete and sign an Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals and that certificate must be endorsed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, according to the press release. Mexico has its own import requirements, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species restricts and prohibit certain endangered species. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2F163-reptile-species-headed-to-mexico-seized-at-southern-border%2F&title=163%20Reptiles%20Headed%20to%20Mexico%20Seized%20At%20Southern%20Border" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/163-reptile-species-headed-to-mexico-seized-at-southern-border/" data-a2a-title="163 Reptiles Headed to Mexico Seized At Southern Border"> The post 163 Reptiles Headed to Mexico Seized At Southern Border appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Examine Your Herp’s Health Before Buying
When looking to acquire your next pet, there are certain things to look for to ensure the animal is healthy. The post Examine Your Herp’s Health Before Buying appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Getting a new pet reptile is an exciting time for those of us in the reptile hobby. Whether it be a new species or another individual of a species we already keep, each pet brings a new adventure and a new aspect to the human-reptile bond. When looking to acquire your next pet, there are certain things to look for to ensure the animal is healthy. This article plans to describe what to look for in a prospective new pet. Before we start with how to examine your reptile, we need to discuss the source of your animal. When possible, always try to find a captive-bred individual, as wild-caught or farm raised animals bring a lot of issues with them. The importation process is very hard on reptiles and adds a lot of stress, which lowers their immune systems. This opens them up to opportunistic bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. The process also leaves them dehydrated and emaciated, further taxing their immune system and bodies. In addition to the physical pressures, the importation process leaves reptiles psychologically scarred and wary of humans, making them harder to acclimate to captivity and difficult to work with. Captive breeding avoids many of these pit falls and gives you a better chance at a healthy individual. With the source of the reptile addressed, now it’s time to go over what to look at for your new pet. I always start with the head, looking mainly at the mouth, eyes, and nose. You want to ensure you do not see any lumps or bumps in the mouth or in addition to excessive bubbles/saliva. These lumps could be potential abscesses, bubbles emanating from the mouth could be signs of a respiratory infection, and excessive saliva could indicate dehydration. You want to make sure the eyes are fully open and clear with no obvious discharge. If a reptile is constantly holding its eyes closed, there is something causing that animal discomfort and stress. Discharge from the nares and eyes can also indicate respiratory infections. With the head out of the way, you want to assess the limbs and the body. If you can, see the animal move around. You want to make sure that the reptile does not have an obvious limp or other issue as it moves around. Look for any swellings on the limbs or body, and ensure the scales look healthy with no evidence of dysecdysis, ectoparasites, and other injuries. Next, look at the vent for any swellings and (if able) ask the breeder for the potential sex of the reptile. If able, ask to see videos of the reptile eating and of its poop/urates. If the animal hasn’t eaten, this could mean it may be sick or too young to be sold. If the poop is watery, that could indicate an inappropriate diet or parasites. Finally, examine the tail for any obvious kinks, dysecdysis, or missing parts. Most importantly you want to assess the animal’s body condition. This can help you see how skinny a reptile is. In lizards, you can look at the tail base to confirm body condition. Normally you should be able to see the outline of the hips covered by a nice layer of muscle. When lizards are emaciated, the hips will appear bony and the spine may be visualized as it moves down the tail. In snakes, the body should be lean with an appropriate tapering from the body to the tail. Emaciated snakes will have visible ribs and spines while obese snakes will have an obvious waist before their tail. Emaciated turtles and tortoises will look bony with a lack of musculature in the pectoral region, whereas obese chelonians will be pouring out of their shells. The miniature physical exam that is detailed in this article should be done every time you handle and interact with your pet. As reptiles are evolutionarily designed to hide signs of illness, frequent check-ups on your pet will help you notice signs of disease before they progress and get the veterinary attention you need. Eric Los Kamp, DVM, is an exotic animal and wildlife veterinarian at Winter Park Veterinary Hospital in Winter Park, Florida who has aspirations to board certify in reptile/amphibian medicine. In addition to being a member of the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV), he is an avid Ackie monitor keeper. The post Examine Your Herp’s Health Before Buying appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Scientists Reveal Motion of Venomous Snake Strikes
Venomous snakes in the Viperidae family reached faster peak velocities than elapids, with the exception of the rough-scaled death adder. The post Scientists Reveal Motion of Venomous Snake Strikes appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Researchers have recorded the strikes of some of the most venomous snakes in the world in an effort to showcase how their strikes compare among the 36 venomous snake species from three families; 31 Viperidae, 4 Elapidae and 1 Colubridae. The researchers employed high speed video cameras capable of capturing 1,000 frames per second to record the strikes of these snakes at a ballistics gel prey. They also tracked the strike trajectory in 3-D to measure strike movement and performance. <!--[if lt IE 9]> <![endif]--> https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/JEB250347.MovieS1.mp4 They then compared the performance within the Viperidae family across “predation style, diel activity pattern, diet, habitat type, temperature and first jaw contact with prey.” They also measured variables such as peak velocity and acceleration, the angle of the snake’s gape, the start distance and contact angle as well as the head size. These measurements all varied by the part of the jaw that first contacted the prey. https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/JEB250347.MovieS2.mp4 They found that the venomous snakes in the Viperidae family reached faster peak velocities than elapids, with the exception of the rough-scaled death adder (Acanthophis rugosus) which was just as fast as the vipers. The ambush predators and those that preyed on mammals had faster strike velocities. They often reached the target prey within 100 ms, which is within the mammalian startle response, the researchers noted. https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/JEB250347.MovieS3.mp4 The researchers also noted the behavioral differences among the three families. Viperidae strikes were smooth and often combined with fang repositioning. Elapidae had a fast bite time and bit and repeatedly squeezed their prey with their jaws and the Colubridae used their rear fangs by damaging the prey’s surface with alternate jaw movements. https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/JEB250347.MovieS4.mp4 The complete paper, Kinematics of Strikes in Venomous Snakes” can be read on The Company of Biologists website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fscientists-reveal-motion-of-venomous-snake-strikes%2F&title=Scientists%20Reveal%20Motion%20of%20Venomous%20Snake%20Strikes" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/scientists-reveal-motion-of-venomous-snake-strikes/" data-a2a-title="Scientists Reveal Motion of Venomous Snake Strikes"> The post Scientists Reveal Motion of Venomous Snake Strikes appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Giant Garter Snake Named California State Snake
The giant garter snake feeds on small fish tadpoles and frogs and is active during the day. The post Giant Garter Snake Named California State Snake appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has named the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake. Senate Bill 765 by Sen. Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) sought to establish the snake as the state snake, citing the reptile’s decline in the state by more than 90 percent in the last 100 years that led to its listing as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. Known only to occur in California’s Central Valley, the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) reaches more than five feet in length, making it one of the largest garter snakes in Thamnophis genus. It is olive to brownish in coloration with a yellow or orange stripe that runs down the length of its back. It also features two lighter colored stripes that run along each side of its body. It inhabits the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes and tributaries in the Central Valley of California. The Garter Snake: A North American Icon Their range runs from Butte County in the north of the valley to Kern County in the south. They can also be found in agricultural wetlands as well as irrigation and drainage canals in rice fields and nearby uplands. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, just five percent of its historical wetland habitat acreage is left. Two-headed Garter Snake Found In Nebraska The giant garter snake feeds on small fish tadpoles and frogs and is active during the day. Threats to the giant garter snake include habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation, invasive aquatic plants, climate change, including flooding and drought, and floods. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fgiant-garter-snake-named-california-state-snake%2F&title=Giant%20Garter%20Snake%20Named%20California%20State%20Snake" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/giant-garter-snake-named-california-state-snake/" data-a2a-title="Giant Garter Snake Named California State Snake"> The post Giant Garter Snake Named California State Snake appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Green Sea Turtle No Longer Listed As Endangered
Turtles & Tortoises Information & News
The marine turtle is now listed as a species of Least Concern, thanks to decades of conservation efforts. The post Green Sea Turtle No Longer Listed As Endangered appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) has been removed from the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Endangered species status and is now listed as Least Concern, thanks to decades of conservation efforts. According to the IUCN, the population of the green sea turtle has increased by 28 percent since the 1970s when the reptile was placed on the IUCN Red List. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-98356" class="wp-image-98356 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/7d816b49/green-sea-turtle-shutterstock_763135951.jpg" alt="Green Sea Turtle " width="712" height="534" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/7d816b49/green-sea-turtle-shutterstock_763135951.jpg 712w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/7d816b49/green-sea-turtle-shutterstock_763135951-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" /> The green sea turtle is now a species of Least Concern. Photo by John Cuyos/Shutterstock “Green turtles are keystone species in tropical marine ecosystems such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs, and have held cultural, culinary, spiritual, and recreational importance for people worldwide for millennia,” the IUCN wrote in an October 10 press release. “Conservation efforts have focused on protecting nesting females and their eggs on beaches, expanding community-based initiatives to reduce unsustainable harvest of turtles and their eggs for human consumption, curtailing trade, and using Turtle Excluder Devices and other measures to reduce the accidental capture of turtles in fishing gear.” Contaminants Ingested By Female Green Sea Turtles May Cause More Female Hatchlings <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Contaminants Ingested By Female Green Sea Turtles May Cause More Female Hatchlings” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/contaminants-ingested-by-female-green-sea-turtles-may-cause-more-female-hatchlings/embed/#?secret=sFXkvdNUEU#?secret=ZrsQGbBYPl" data-secret="ZrsQGbBYPl" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> Studies over the years have pointed to a rebound in the turtle’s populations. Populations of green sea turtles in and around Hawaii and American Pacific island territories have increased, sometimes by an average of 8 percent each year since scuba diving researchers began counting them in 2002, according to a 2019 study published in the PLOS One journal. The researchers went around 53 islands, atolls, and coral reefs in the U.S. Pacific from 2002 to 2015 and counted more than 3,400 sea turtles, 90.1 percent of which were green sea turtles. Sea turtle counts around Hawaii experienced an 8 percent increase, while the number of sea turtles around American Samoa and the Mariana Islands increased by an average of 4 percent a year. “The ongoing global recovery of the green turtle is a powerful example of what coordinated global conservation over decades can achieve to stabilise and even restore populations of long-lived marine species. Such approaches must focus not only on the turtles, but on keeping their habitats healthy, and their ecological functions intact. Sea turtles cannot survive without healthy oceans and coasts, and humans can’t either. Sustained conservation efforts are key to assuring that this recovery lasts,” said Roderic Mast, Co-Chair of IUCN’s Species Survival Commission Marine Turtle Specialist Group. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fgreen-sea-turtle-no-longer-listed-as-endangered%2F&title=Green%20Sea%20Turtle%20No%20Longer%20Listed%20As%20Endangered" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/green-sea-turtle-no-longer-listed-as-endangered/" data-a2a-title="Green Sea Turtle No Longer Listed As Endangered"> The post Green Sea Turtle No Longer Listed As Endangered appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.