USARK FL News

USARK FL Comment on FWC’s Listing of the Florida Reef Gecko as a Threatened Species

USARK FL — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers-Florida (USARK FL) opposes the proposed rule to list the Florida Reef gecko as a State Threatened Species in the current form that it is being presented by FWC staff to the Commission. We are neither disputing nor agreeing with the need for protection, but we oppose the listing due to its impact on captive populations. This species should be preserved in the wild and in captivity for the future. We do not believe the current proposal accomplishes that goal. In Florida, the Reef gecko is primarily threatened by habitat destruction and rising sea level. Provisions in staff’s proposal that ban the keeping and captive breeding of the Florida reef gecko are irrelevant to its continued survival in the wild.

USARK FL has previously submitted our comment to FWC that possession, breeding, and sale of state-listed species and state-protected species (including non-listed species that have possession limits) should be allowed with proof of legal origin. If animals are purchased from a legal source, a receipt documenting the source must be available for inspection by FWC. If animals are bred in captivity, the history of those animals and chain of custody from a legal source must be documented. This does NOT allow for collection from the wild within Florida. Candidate Species should not be restricted until their actual listing process is complete.

The proposed listing of the Reef gecko has come before the FWC Commissioners at multiple meetings. Reptile keepers have made public comments at each of these meetings opposing a captive ban. In each of these instances, Commissioners have directed staff to work with the reptile industry and consider our input.

Unfortunately, we believe our request for an allowance of keeping and captive breeding written into rule has been addressed in a manner that is confusing, and at odds with current taxonomy. Since the last Commission meeting, reptile keepers have met with staff in the Division of Habitat and Species Conservation (HSC) twice. In the first meeting, staff presented the idea that FWC would only enforce the ban on the subspecies of Reef gecko which is endemic to Florida, the Florida Reef gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus). We presented our concern that this subspecies is not universally accepted and is very difficult to differentiate from other subspecies. Staff agreed and further asserted that unless a specimen possessed was specifically-labeled as a Florida Reef gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus), FWC would not take enforcement action. For instance, if specimens were labeled simply as Reef geckos (Sphaerodactylus notatus), FWC would not take enforcement action. We believe this would be a novel approach by FWC law enforcement which would be different from interpretations of rule that we have seen in the past. We have significant concerns as to how this can be enforced.

For the second meeting, we had hoped that FWC staff would come back to us with changes to the proposed language of the rule accommodating our requests. Unfortunately, we were told that no changes were being made to the rule as written. FWC said that listing of this was necessary to gather data on the species and that they did not think that possession of the Florida Reef gecko with receipts documenting the origin of captive specimens was sufficient to prove a legal chain of custody.

USARK FL has a stated goal of protecting diversity of species within the reptile industry while also maintaining captive populations of sensitive species as assurance colonies in case wild populations disappear. We have clearly expressed our desire for FWC to avoid “gray areas” in rules that are subject to varied interpretation. We are striving for policies on paper rather than assurances from people who may or may not even be part of FWC in the near future. We believe that FWC’s proposed rule on the Florida Reef gecko accomplishes none of these goals.

We do want to acknowledge and appreciate the effort that FWC has put in in an effort to find an acceptable solution. Further, we appreciate that they have acknowledged that the Florida reef gecko may be determined to be non-native in the future, and their documents clearly state that if this is found to be the case, then protections will be eliminated. In spite of our mutual attempt to find common ground, we cannot support the proposed changes. Rather than give up the ability to work with this rare and unique species, we would prefer a solution that allows us to continue to contribute to the body of knowledge on this gecko.

We do not believe that habitat loss and the ability to collect data is valid justification for a captive ban. Therefore, USARK Florida is opposing the rule as written. We once again ask that Commissioners table this issue until staff makes a genuine effort to incorporate the input of reptile keepers into the written rule.

The proposed Reef gecko rule is Item 9.C. on the agenda for next week's FWC meeting (Feb. 4-5) in Tallahassee.

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/february-2026/

Members of the public may email the FWC Commissioners commissioners@myfwc.com or give public comment in person at the meeting.

FWC Reptile and Amphibian Working Group Holds First Meeting

USARK FL — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT

“Motley” Corn Snake, a Captive Bred Morph of the Corn Snake, a Popular Pet and Native Florida Species. Photo by Daniel Parker, who grants permission for this photo to be reprinted for media purposes

FWC Reptile and Amphibian Working Group Holds First Meeting

Reptile keepers and representatives of USARK FL met with staff from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on January 13, 2025 as part of the newly formed Reptile and Amphibian Working Group. USARK Florida requested the formation of this group as a step toward improved dialogue between FWC and the reptile community.

During the discussion, reptile keepers outlined a series of priority issues where they believe improvements or collaboration are urgently needed. These included allowing albino and leucistic color morphs across species, reforming licensing rules viewed as overly punitive, and clarifying authorization for ESA (Endangered Species Act) listed species. Keepers also raised concerns about the need for transport permits for prohibited species.

Reptile keepers have complained that many existing rules no longer reflect current realities of captive breeding, private property rights, or interstate commerce, and in some cases place Florida businesses at a competitive disadvantage.

USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski stressed the importance of continued cooperation, emphasizing that constructive engagement is essential for both responsible animal keeping and effective wildlife management. “This is about Florida’s future,” said Wisneski.

Meeting participants expressed cautious optimism that collaborative solutions can be developed in the months ahead. “We have a mandate from FWC leadership and Florida’s reptile keepers to create positive change and we believe that should happen in short order,” said USARK FL Director of Media Daniel Parker.

About USARK Florida:

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) emphasizes the responsible keeping, conservation, and welfare of reptiles and amphibians through education, advocacy, and best practices, while fostering collaboration among stakeholders to address essential conservation and husbandry issues. For more information about USARK Florida and to stay updated on ongoing advocacy efforts, please visit usarkfl.net

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact Daniel Parker, USARK FL Director of Media, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Daniel Parker grants permission for all photos in this release to be reprinted for media purposes.

ACTION ALERT - USARK-FL : November FWC Commission Meeting

USARK FL — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 21:00:00 GMT

We are asking reptile keepers to oppose agenda items: 11A on Wildlife Trapping and 11B on Listing of the Reef gecko at the upcoming Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting, Nov. 5-6.

See meeting agenda and full rule language here:

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/november-2025/

These items have negative impacts on reptile keepers as well as nonnative animal trappers, collectors, and scientific researchers that deal with reptiles and amphibians.

Item 11A on Wildlife Trapping imposes stringent regulatory requirements on people who wish to trap reptiles and amphibians (including nonnative species) for removal or research. Under the language of this rule, common capture devices like nooses or catch poles would be included as traps. Trapping would require a training course and a special permit from FWC. Permit holders would be required to label traps as well as report all captures and locations to FWC. Under the language of this rule package, most reptile trapping and research methods would become illegal or extremely difficult due to the onerous red tape.

In the short term, we are asking that reptiles and amphibians be exempted from this rule.

Item 11B is the State Listing of the Reef gecko as “Threatened,” which will likely result in a near complete ban on keeping and breeding these lizards.

Like the Cuban treefrog and Brown anole, Florida’s Reef geckos descend from populations in the West Indies. The exact time of their invasion into Florida is not known. Protection of a species not known to be native to Florida would be an unusual and unprecedented step for FWC.

Possession, breeding, and sale of state-protected species (including non-listed species that have possession limits) should be allowed with proof of origin. This would NOT allow for collection from the wild within Florida.

Habitat loss is the primary threat to this species within Florida. Limiting captive breeding is counterproductive to its continued survival.

We ask that FWC allow possession, breeding, and sale of state-listed species (that are not Federally-listed) and state-protected species (including non-listed species that have possession limits) with proof of legal origin. If animals are purchased from out of state from a legal source, a receipt documenting the source should be available for inspection by FWC. If animals are bred in captivity, the history of those animals and chain of custody from a legal source should be documented.

Submit your written comments here: https://myfwc.wufoo.com/forms/zpc004t0nx1lci/

Email the FWC Commissioners: commissioners@myfwc.com

NOTE: To clear up any confusion on Item 6B, FWC's Proposed rule language makes an exception to requirement of concrete or masonry block construction on outdoor caging for Green iguanas.

New FWC rule changes: Iguanas

USARK FL — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:00:00 GMT

Review the new FWC rule changes on Prohibited Species at:

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/proposed-rule-change/

We are currently working on changes to caging regs, which will come up at the FWC Commission Meeting in Clewiston Nov. 5-6, 2025.

For more information on proposed caging changes and to provide feedback, go to this link:
https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/rule-changes/

ESA: Southern hognose proposed as threatened

USARK FL — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has proposed to list the southern hognose snake (Heterodon simus), as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). FWS has found that the southern hognose faces serious threats from habitat loss and degradation as a result of land conversion and fragmentation causing loss of connectivity between populations, road mortality, invasive species (red ants, feral hogs, and cogongrass), and climate change."

https://usark.org/25esa3/

A 60-day comment period begins on August 29, 2025.

Comment and get full details at https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-16688/endangered-and-threatened-species-status-with-section-4d-rule-for-southern-hognose-snake.

The document is posted at https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/25-western-hognose-esa.pdf.

For more information, contact Christy Johnson-Hughes, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, South Carolina Ecological Services Field Office; 843–727–4707; christy_johnsonhughes@fws.gov

While Southern hognose snakes are currently bred in small numbers by private breeders, zoos are not known to breed them. Conservation strategies should include responsible breeding programs, along with habitat preservation.

USARK Florida Condemns Animal Cruelty in Storage Unit Incident

USARK FL — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

USARK Florida Condemns Animal Cruelty in Storage Unit Incident, Reaffirms Commitment to Responsible Reptile Care

Osceola County, Florida – The United States Association of Reptile Keepers (USARK) Florida condemns the inhumane treatment of 111 African fat-tailed geckos found abandoned in a storage unit in Osceola County in November 2023. Tragically, 41 of these geckos were found dead due to neglect, and the surviving animals were left without food or water for a significant period of time. These animals were discovered when employees of the storage facility unlocked the unit after it had been sealed due to nonpayment.

Storage unit in Osceola County, FL where geckos were abandoned. Photo by Daniel Parker, who grants permission for this photo to be reprinted

USARK Florida was first tipped off to this case by a concerned citizen, and we have been closely following the situation for nearly two years. Throughout this time, we offered our support to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in placing the surviving animals into proper care, as we have done in past situations to help avoid unnecessary euthanasia. We are pleased that, thanks to the diligent work of FWC investigators, the surviving geckos have been placed in suitable care, ensuring a better future for them.

African Fat-tailed gecko. These lizards are known for their gentle disposition and ease of care. Photo by Dakota Nivens, who grants permission for this photo to be reprinted

About African Fat-Tailed Geckos
African fat-tailed geckos are among the most popular pet lizards due to their calm, docile disposition and ease of care. They rarely, if ever, bite, making them ideal companions for both new and experienced reptile keepers. With proper care, African fat-tailed geckos can live 10 to 15 years, though some have been known to live even longer. Ideally, they should be provided with a thermal gradient in their enclosure, a natural light cycle, and a varied diet of readily available feeder insects. Despite the fact that they inhabit arid or semi-arid environments in the wild, clean drinking water should always be available in their permanent housing. The “fat tail” holds fat reserves, which allow these geckos to survive periods of food scarcity in their harsh natural environment. These geckos are known for their gentle nature and can make wonderful pets when cared for responsibly.

We also applaud the diligent work of FWC investigators, which led to the identification and arrest of Kelvin E. Soto, who held an expired license from FWC to exhibit and sell animals. Soto was charged with felony animal cruelty and confinement of animals without food or water. He pleaded guilty in August 2024, and his sentence includes four years of supervised probation, 100 hours of community service, and a lifetime ban on possessing animals. Soto is also required to pay over $5,000 in restitution for the care of the surviving geckos. We support FWC’s actions in this case.

USARK Florida wants to make it clear that the actions of Soto in no way reflect the practices of responsible reptile keepers. The overwhelming majority of reptile owners treat these animals with the utmost care and respect, often viewing them as beloved members of their families. This tragic incident is not a reflection of the reptile community as a whole, but rather the actions of a single individual who failed to meet even the most basic standards of animal care.

Storage unit in Osceola County, FL where geckos were abandoned. Photo by Daniel Parker, who grants permission for this photo to be reprinted

"This case serves as a painful reminder of the importance of responsible animal ownership and the need for accountability when those responsibilities are ignored," said USARK Florida President Elizabeth Wisneski. "We stand with the vast majority of reptile keepers who prioritize the humane treatment of their animals. We strongly condemn anyone who would neglect or mistreat reptiles as was done in this case. It is important to distinguish between those who harm animals and those who care for them responsibly."

African Fat-tailed Gecko. The “fat tail” holds fat reserves which allow this gecko to survive periods of food scarcity in their harsh wild environment. Photo by Dakota Nivens, who grants permission for this photo to be reprinted

USARK Florida remains committed to promoting education and best practices for reptile care and encourages the public to report instances of neglect or abuse. We are dedicated to ensuring that all reptiles are treated with the respect they deserve.

About USARK Florida:

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) emphasizes the responsible keeping, conservation, and welfare of reptiles and amphibians through education, advocacy, and best practices, while fostering collaboration among stakeholders to address essential conservation and husbandry issues. For more information about USARK Florida and to stay updated on ongoing advocacy efforts, please visit usarkfl.net

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact Daniel Parker, USARK FL Director of Media, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Daniel Parker and Dakota Nivens grant permission for all photos in this release to be reprinted for media purposes.

For more information, please contact:
Daniel Parker
Email: media@usarkfl.net
Phone: 863-441-5056
Website: usarkfl.net

FWC Commission Meeting

USARK FL — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 16:00:00 GMT

The next FWC Commission meeting will be held Aug 13-14 in Havana, FL.

Items of interest:

Consent Agenda
Proposed Final Rule – Federal Consistency for 3 species. Staff seek approval to update Florida Endangered and Threatened Species List to maintain consistency with federal listing determinations for 3 species. Two species, the Barbour’s map turtle (currently State-designated Threatened) and Escambia map turtle (currently not listed) will be updated to Federally-designated Threatened due to Similarity of Appearance. The Suwannee alligator snapping turtle (currently State-designated Threatened) will be updated to Federally-designated Threatened.
NO PUBLIC COMMENT ON CONSENT AGENDA

Awards and Recognition
Florida Python Challenge

Items Requiring Action
Final Rules–Florida Black Bear Hunt. Staff will present the final amendments to hunting rules that establish bear hunt structure.

Listing Evaluation for Holbrook’s Southern Dusky Salamander and Alligator Gar. Staff will recommend listing the alligator gar and southern dusky salamander as State Threatened, and present proposed rule to add these species to the list of candidate species in 68A-27.0021 F.A.C.

NOTE: Dusky salamanders are kept as pets and occur in trade. FWC has not sought input from keepers on this species. If approved as a candidate species, take will be immediately banned with no further public input. FWC has set a precedent for excercising extreme power on candidate species, which could easily be used in the future to ban more commonly-kept native species. No additional habitat protections are inherent to state listing.

FWC has cancelled public comment on "Items Not on the Agenda," which is typically held at the end of the meeting. This continues a pattern of stifling public discourse, like their policy of deleting negative comments on social media.

See meeting agenda:
https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/august-2025/

USARK FL Applauds FWC Rule Changes, Urges Further Action on Nonnative Species

USARK FL — Mon, 26 May 2025 22:00:00 GMT

USARK FL Applauds FWC Rule Changes,

Urges Further Action on Nonnative Species

Green Iguana in the wild in Monroe County, Florida. Photo by Daniel Parker. Daniel Parker grants permission for this photo to be reprinted for media purposes

Florida – United States Association of Reptile Keepers-Florida (USARK FL) commends the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for their recent vote on May 21 to approve rule changes to allow more nonnative Green iguanas to be removed from the wild in Florida. The Commission’s action will allow more citizens to be permitted to capture live iguanas for sale out of state. While this marks a significant step toward improved management of iguanas, critical gaps remain that require urgent attention.

Prior to the FWC’s implementation of Prohibited Species rules in 2021, reptile businesses in Florida removed hundreds of thousands of nonnative iguanas from the wild annually. However, once the FWC's prohibition took effect, iguana populations began to surge.

Green Iguanas in the wild in Broward County, Florida. Photo by Daniel Parker. Daniel Parker grants permission for this photo to be reprinted for media purposes

Under the guidance of new FWC Executive Director Roger Young, some proposed reforms of nonnative species rules have now come to fruition. "We have worked very hard with FWC to create rule changes which will allow more people to remove nonnative species," says USARK Florida President Elizabeth Wisneski. "This will benefit Florida’s environment and our small businesses."

However, she believes that the changes still don’t go far enough. “FWC must reform caging regulations to make it economically feasible for businesses to be able to house iguanas,” said Wisneski. “FWC has not taken action on allowing the collection of eggs. They have also not considered allowing the removal of tegus, which are nonnative lizards that we are concerned about impacting Florida’s environment in the future.”

While the approved rule changes represent progress, USARK Florida urges immediate attention to the pressing issues of caging, egg collection, and the collection of tegus to safeguard Florida’s environment.

About USARK Florida:

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) emphasizes the responsible keeping, conservation, and welfare of reptiles and amphibians through education, advocacy, and best practices, while fostering collaboration among stakeholders to address essential conservation and husbandry issues. For more information about USARK Florida and to stay updated on ongoing advocacy efforts, please visit usarkfl.net

FWC Rules Promote Expansion of Nonnative Iguana and Tegu Populations

USARK FL — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

FWC Rules Promote Expansion of Nonnative Iguana and Tegu Populations

Argentine Black and White Tegu- Photo by Travis de Lagerheim

(Travis de Lagerheim grants permission for this photo to be reprinted and distributed for publication)

Since the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) listed Green iguanas, tegus, and Burmese pythons as “Prohibited Species” in 2021, banning live collection of these species from the wild in Florida, populations of those species have continued to expand. FWC’s restrictive Conditional Species rules, which were already in place at the time, had virtually eliminated the keeping of listed species as pets, but still allowed removal from the wild. Because of the Prohibited Species rules, most wild collection and export of the affected nonnative species ceased.

FWC never provided scientific justification that banning the collection, keeping, and sale of these species would reduce their wild populations in Florida. We can see now that it has had the opposite effect, while at the same time leading to the confiscation and killing of numerous pet reptiles. In the grizzly “Holy Thursday Massacre” event on April 6th, 2023, FWC officers were caught on camera killing over 30 pythons and a legally-owned pregnant Boa constrictor, which they apparently misidentified.

Before the ban, reptile businesses were exporting hundreds of thousands of Green iguanas from the state. Most of these were freshly-hatched babies. In 2021, most of that collection and export ceased.

FWC staff recently proposed changes to rules regarding the management of Green iguanas and tegus. In a series of virtual meetings, FWC staff indicated that the objective of these changes is to activate more citizens to remove these nonnative species from the wild. However, the general feeling amongst the reptile keepers and business owners who commented was that, though some of the proposed changes were a step in the right direction, the regulations are still convoluted to the point of discouraging collection of wild iguanas and tegus.

FWC’s proposal will allow certain businesses who qualify to be permitted to sell and export Green iguanas out of state. Collectors may not sell or export the iguanas they catch on their own, but may be compensated by commercial permit holders in exchange for their animals. No new commercial permits will be issued for tegus and non permitted individuals may not collect tegus. Black and White tegus are currently an emerging nonnative species in Florida. Tegus are not nearly as common as Green iguanas in the wild at this time, but it is believed that they have the potential to expand their range in Florida. FWC is taking no new measures to allow expanded take of wild tegus in Florida.

Permitted sellers of tegus will continue to be required to microchip all lizards taken in from the wild and exported, even if these animals are only kept for a short period of time within Florida. Reptile keepers believe that microchipping is hazardous to the health of the lizards, especially the babies.

Baby Green Iguana from Broward County, FL- Photo by Daniel Parker

(Daniel Parker grants permission for this photo to be reprinted and distributed for publication)

Excessive caging requirements requiring concrete block enclosures will remain in effect, which will continue to ensure that few keepers or businesses can participate.

These rules require that any eggs laid or found be destroyed, thus removing any profit motive for collectors targeting nests or gravid female lizards. FWC’s rules will actually incentivize collectors to leave gravid females and nests so that they can hatch in the wild and the babies can be collected after hatching.

The FWC Commissioners will meet May 21-22 in Ocala, FL. At this meeting, FWC staff is expected to present rule changes affecting Nonnative Species.

Reptile keepers and conservationists are concerned that bureaucratic red tape will continue to discourage efforts to reduce wild populations of these nonnative species. Unless FWC is willing to consider more rule changes, especially concerning caging, microchipping, and further increasing the number of permit holders, collection of Green iguanas and tegus from the wild will not be economically feasible on a large scale, which will continue to allow wild populations of these nonnative species to continue to propagate and expand.

For more info, please see this video on USARK FL’s YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/M8G4JdZp_C4?si=Vkpck35Je7hEtb3K

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact Daniel Parker, USARK FL Director of Media, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

FWC Considers Iguana and Tegu Rule Changes

USARK FL — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Please participate in upcoming virtual meetings Information on the changes can be found in the link below below.

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/proposed-rule-change/?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=campaign

USARK Florida has been in talks with leadership from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on proposed changes to rules affecting Green Iguanas and Tegus in Florida. FWC is considering expanding the abilities of collectors to take wild Green iguanas and Tegus for sale and export.

Reptile keepers in Florida have requested a program that removes the onerous red tape currently found in FWC rules to create a system that allows for easy capture, transport, sale, and export of these nonnative lizards from the wild in Florida. The rules should be easy to understand and allow opportunities for anyone from the general public to participate. The current Prohibited Species rules have led to population expansions of affected species by preventing their capture out of the wild. It is important to include Tegus in this program, especially considering that wild Tegu populations in Florida are still at lower levels than iguanas and could be more susceptible to impact by collection at this time. Waiting for Tegu populations to further expand before taking measures to combat their spread makes no sense.

Please participate in the upcoming virtual meetings to give input.

From FWC:
FWC seeking feedback on proposed rule changes for nonnnative species

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking feedback from all interested parties on proposed rule change concepts relating to nonnative species. A series of virtual public meetings will be held March 25-29, 2025, to provide the public with information on these concepts and to solicit feedback. Topics discussed will include qualifications for permits to sell green iguanas collected from the wild in Florida, transfer of Prohibited species sales permits, transfer allowances for captured green iguanas, and batch marking wild-caught green iguanas. Other proposed changes that will be discussed include Prohibited species pet permit renewals, caging requirements for juvenile green iguanas or tegus, options for FWC Law Enforcement placement of Prohibited species, and clarification on disallowing importation of Conditional or Prohibited species into Florida for personal use.

Virtual Public Meeting Series #1: The first series of virtual public meetings will cover permit qualifications for sales of wild-caught green iguanas, transfer of sales permits, transfer allowances for captured green iguanas, and batch marking of green iguanas. Content covered in all series 1 meetings is identical and it is not necessary to attend more than one virtual public meeting within the same series. This series will be held on the following dates and times:

Tuesday, March 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. EST
Wednesday, March 26, 6-8 p.m. EST
Saturday, March 29, 1-3 p.m. EST

Virtual Public Meeting Series #2: The second series of virtual public meetings will cover renewals of Prohibited species pet permits, caging requirements for juvenile tegus and green iguanas, placement options for Prohibited species by FWC Law Enforcement, and clarification on importation of Conditional and Prohibited species for personal use. The content covered in all series 2 meetings is identical and it is not necessary to attend more than one virtual public meeting within the same series. This series will be held on the following dates and times:

Thursday, March 27, 1-3 p.m. EST
Thursday, March 27, 6-8 p.m. EST
Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. EST

The virtual public meetings can be joined via Zoom link. No prior registration is necessary. To learn more about the proposed rule change concepts for nonnative species and the virtual public meetings, please go to Proposed Rule Changes for Nonnative Species | FWC . Comments regarding these topics can be submitted through the Nonnative Species Rule Making Comments form or via email at NonnativeSpeciesRules@MyFWC.com.

FWC Helped to Create an Iguana Population Explosion. We Want to Help Fix It.

USARK FL — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Author: Daniel Parker

Adult male Green Iguana in Broward County showing winter breeding season orange coloration-Photo by Daniel Parker (Daniel Parker grants permission for this photo to be reprinted and distributed for publication)

FWC’s “Prohibited Species Rules” of 2021 essentially banned the collection of live wild Green iguanas in Florida for the pet trade, which was to that point the primary means of controlling nonnative iguana populations.

The Green iguana is native to tropical areas of the Americas from Mexico to South America. As a tag-along to global trade, it has managed to expand its range in tropical regions around the world. It is a frequent stowaway on cargo ships and even airplanes. It has been established in Florida for around 70 years.

Green iguanas thrive in habitats disturbed by humans. In South Florida, they are much more likely to be seen along sidewalks, canals, and on manicured lawns than in natural habitats like marshes and forests, which may harbor predators. Green iguanas are almost exclusively vegetarian in diet.

Green iguanas often become quite tame under human care. Their impressive appearance and often friendly personality have made them some of the most popular pet lizards in the world. They may live over 20 years as pets or display animals. However, prospective keepers must be sure to educate themselves on the eventual large size and specific care requirements of these lizards.

Florida’s reptile distributors have reported exporting numbers of iguanas in the hundreds of thousands per year prior to the ban. In the decades preceding FWC’s action in 2021, the total of wild Florida iguana exports likely numbered in the millions.

Reports by scientists, observations by citizens, and the increase in iguana-related content in the media suggests an exploding iguana population in Florida. If the goal of the Prohibited Species rules was to reduce the number of nonnative reptiles in the wild in Florida, it has been a dismal failure.

Since being appointed Executive Director of FWC in 2023, Roger Young has expressed an interest in expanding the ability of collectors to remove iguanas from wild in Florida for sale and export out of state. The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) recognizes this as an opportunity to work with FWC on a solution which could have both economic and conservation benefits to Florida.

Joe Hiduke of USARK FL represents Terrestrial Pet Keepers on FWC’s Nonnative Species TAG-Photo by Daniel Parker (Daniel Parker grants permission for this photo to be reprinted and distributed for publication)

Representatives of Florida’s animal industries, including zoo keepers, farmers, and pet advocates, met with FWC staff at a Technical Assistance Group (TAG) meeting at University of Florida’s Tropical Aquaculture Lab in Ruskin on December 5, 2024. FWC staff presented potential rule changes to make certain allowances for collection, sale, and export of Green iguanas.

Unfortunately, the provisions presented by FWC staff were onerous to the point that few people would be incentivized to participate. Provisions requiring the marking of individual animals, reporting of exact locations of animals collected, time frames restricting how long animals may be kept, and costly cage security requirements will ensure that very few people would undertake the burden.

Representatives on the committee suggested that FWC staff create a more serious proposal, with some even saying that this process would be a waste of time if the new program is wrapped in so much red tape that nobody wants to collect iguanas.

FWC’s Prohibited Species Rules led to a rash of confiscation and euthanasia of pet reptiles by FWC law enforcement. The most well-known example of this was the “Holy Thursday Massacre” in April of 2023, when FWC law enforcement officers confiscated and killed a pet Reticulated python from 16-year-old Onya Golightly and then killed over 30 pythons and legally kept Boa constrictor at the facility of Chris Coffee and Bill McAdam. The Boa was pregnant with over 30 babies, which also perished. This event was extensively covered by worldwide media.

Even with new leadership at FWC, reptile keepers still do not fully trust FWC staff and officers that enforce their rules. Reptile collectors and businesses are unlikely to participate in any program that is overly complicated and could place them in legal jeopardy, especially with an agency that has seemed to display a “gotcha” attitude with our community in the past.

If FWC would like to enlist our help in reducing Florida’s wild Green iguana populations, we would be happy to have the conversation. For our community to participate, the program needs to be simple and free of the unreasonable red tape which seems to encircle every package presented by FWC’s bureaucrats. Otherwise, the millions of iguanas that we used to remove will continue to thrive and breed in the wild in Florida.

For more info, please see this video on USARK FL’s YouTube channel:

https://youtu.be/M8G4JdZp_C4?si=Vkpck35Je7hEtb3K

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please contact Daniel Parker, USARK FL Director of Media, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

Also contact:

Michael Cole
Owner,Ball Room Pythons South
863-325-5208
ballroom@tampabay.rr.org

Curt Harbsmeier
Attorney, Harbsmeier Law Group LLC
863-640-7484
charbsmeier@hdalaw.com

FWC Final Ruling on the Reef Gecko

USARK FL — Tue, 21 May 2024 19:00:00 GMT

FWC Commissioners have voted to make the Reef Gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus) a Candidate Species for state listing. This was a final rule vote that was not preceeded by a draft rule vote and period for public input. As of the May 1 vote, legal wild collection was immediately ended with no due process or assessment of economic impact by FWC. FWC did not reach out to USARK FL to assess the impact that listing or making this a candidate species for listing would have on industry.

In 2019, Stephanie Clements and Christopher Searcy of University of Miami requested a biological status review by FWC to consider the Reef gecko for state listing. "New scientific evidence indicates that this species may in fact be declining across South Florida, and faces threats from habitat loss and climate change," said Clement and Searcy.

Unfortunately, no protection of habitat is inherent to protections for state listed species, as evidenced by the rampant destruction of State Threatened Florida pine snake habitat. As with most state listed species, there is no prescribed survey requirement or relocation procedure.

Based on previous precedent, state listing would likely result in banning keeping and breeding of this species. As with other listed herp species, state listing of the Reef Gecko is unlikely to lead to significant habitat protections.

The account on the Reef Gecko in the book "Amphibians and Reptiles of Florida," co-authored by Dr. Kenney Krysko, retired FWC herp biologist Paul Moler, and current FWC herp biologist Kevin Enge, considers this species to be nonnative in Florida. State listing of a nonnative species as "Threatened" would be an unprecedented step for FWC.

USARK FL Unleashed Podcast

USARK FL — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT

USARK FL Unleashed, our new podcast, will be available on your favorite listening platforms! Stay tuned for spine-tingling stories, expert insights, and a whole lot of scaly fun! Get ready to engage with us in a whole new way.

https://usarkfl-unleashed.buzzsprout.com/2326908

Florida Iguana Ban (HB1033)

USARK FL — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Photo of Cuban Rock Iguana (Cyclura nubila) by Travis deLagerheim @travisaurusrex60

HB1033 seeks to expand the ban on Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) to include all Iguana species (assumedly all genera of the family Iguanidae: Amblyrhynchus, Brachylophus, Cachryx, Conolophus, Ctenosaura, Cyclura, Dipsosaurus, Iguana, and Sauromalus.)

This would mean that rock iguanas, spiny-tailed iguanas, rhinoceros iguanas, chuckwallas, and all other Iguanids would become Prohibited Species. It does this by changing statute from reading “Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)” to just “Iguana.”

Florida is the world center of conservation for imperiled iguana species. Some of the largest assurance colonies of endangered Iguanas are found at Florida facilities. The reptile industry has contributed to raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Iguana conservation through IguanaFest and coordination with conservationists. In addition to its negative conservation impacts, this bill further degrades the freedoms of reptile keepers and small businesses within Florida.

HB1033 also bans the sales of dog and cats in pet shops. HB1033 was introduced by State Representative Sam Killebrew of Winter Haven (District 48)

Read the bill : https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/1033/BillText/Filed/PDF

The bill has been profiled and has not yet been assigned to a committee. The Florida legislative session begins on January 9, 2024. The bill would take effect on take effect July 1, 2024.

Call to Action:

Contact Representative Killebrew and tell him this bill is a threat to pet owners, small businesses, farmers, and conservation.

sam.killebrew@myfloridahouse.gov

Capitol Office

300 House Office Building

402 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300

(850) 717-5048

District office

337 Avenue C Southwest

Winter Haven, FL 33880-3262

(863) 291-5254

Continue to follow @usarkflorida and @usark for more information.

Florida Reptile Keepers to Demand Change

USARK FL — Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Florida Reptile Keepers to Demand Change at

FWC Commission Meeting in Miami in Wake of FWC Pet Massacre

Above: FWC Officer Lex Corteguera poses with “Sweetie” the Burmese python before throwing her in a trash can. (Photo still from FWC Body Camera Video)

In the wake of the “Holy Thursday Massacre” on April 6 a now world famous event in which Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Law Enforcement Officers unnecessarily and inhumanely slaughtered over 30 pet snakes in Broward County, Florida, reptile keepers are expected to demand a change in the direction of the agency at the FWC Commission Meeting on Thursday, May 11 in Miami, FL. Item 10.A. on the agenda of the meeting, which is currently scheduled for the morning of Thursday, May 11, will include a draft rule to further crack down on imports of pet and food animals to supposedly address nonnative species issues in Florida. In addition to that item, reptile keepers will voice their comments on the FWC snake massacre in the “Items not on the Agenda” item at the end of the meeting on Thursday afternoon. This meeting may be viewed live and replayed at thefloridachannel.org.

The agenda for the FWC Commission Meeting May 10-11 in Miami, Florida may be viewed here:

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/may-2023/

In addition to the “Holy Thursday Massacre,” reptile keepers and members of all of Florida’s animal industries are expected to vehemently oppose FWC’s draconian “Whitelist” regulatory proposals to restrict import of nonnative animals into Florida. This is agenda item 10.A., which is expected to be heard on Thursday morning at 8:30AM. Whitelist regulatory systems allow a certain list of approved species to be imported or sold and ban all others by default. At the recent FWC Technical Assistance Group (TAG) meeting, members of Florida zoos as well as aquaculture and pet industries decried the ill-conceived proposals as “industry killers.” The “options” for regulatory systems being presented by FWC staff are based on interpretations of FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto’s words from the February FWC Meeting in which he said, “I have no qualms worth of saying we’re shutting Florida down,” in reference to nonnative animal species entering Florida. Animal industry leaders believe that Barreto’s words were ill-informed and ill-conceived, as the results of such an action would likely be the loss of tens of thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue to family farms and small businesses dealing in livestock.

USARK FL Representative Joe Hiduke suggested a Blacklist approach which bans only certain species proven to be problematic, since a Whitelist system would require the evaluation of tens of thousands of species and the identification of those species by law enforcement. Hiduke said, “We’ve seen in the last month the pretty significant problems that law enforcement can have identification: things like boas and pythons.” Art Roybal, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) representative on the TAG, opposed FWC’s Whitelist system, saying, “I do know that blacklists work. Whitelists have some problems.” In the wake of FWC’s slaughter of pet snakes, FWC’s further crackdown on pets seems especially egregious.

A video on the last FWC Nonnative Species TAG webinar may be seen here:

https://youtu.be/kTNFkq2JiHg

One of the pet snakes killed by FWC officers on April 6 was a pregnant pet Boa constrictor named “Big Shirl,” which was owned by Bill McAdam and kept at his facility in Sunrise, Florida. Boas are among the most popular pet snakes and are legal to own in Florida. Video of the incident shows the animal writhing on the floor for more than 20 minutes after the FWC officers administered a single bolt charge to its head. During the Holy Thursday Massacre, FWC officers also killed 29 Reticulated pythons and five Burmese pythons owned by Chris Coffee and housed at McAdam’s facility. One of these snakes was a Burmese python named “Sweetie.” FWC Officer Lex Corteguera called that snake “the puppy dog” before pulling it out of the cage and administering the bolt gun charge to its head. After this Corteguera could be seen directing Officer Jonathan Wright to take a cell phone photo of him holding “Sweetie,” as if it was a trophy kill, before throwing it into a trash can. USARK FL has requested that photo from FWC, but FWC has not provided it.

FWC considers those python species to be “Prohibited” under rules passed in 2021. Coffee was unable to rehome some of his snakes within the arbitrary 90-day time period allowed by FWC after the ban passed in 2021. After contacting FWC to ask for help, officers executed a constructive seizure on the snakes in February 2022 which forced Coffee to feed and care for the animals until FWC took final action, which did not occur until April 6, 2023 when the animals were killed by officers.

Video footage shot by Chris Coffee documenting the FWC massacre may be viewed on the USARK FL YouTube channel here:

https://youtu.be/BuimdwINSzk

(Please note that the location of this incident was initially incorrectly reported as Palm Beach County rather than Sunrise in Broward County.)

USARK FL maintains that none of the pythons in this case should have been killed because they were legally owned prior to the administrative rule change. As a matter of law, they should have been grandfathered without condition. USARK FL is currently in a lawsuit with FWC challenging validity and constitutionality of these rules and has asked for FWC to stop seizing and euthanizing captive animals until this legal challenge is resolved. Contrary to some media reports, the Reticulated python is not an invasive species in Florida. USARK FL’s Motion for Summary Judgment in their lawsuit against FWC may be viewed here:

https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/Filed%20Motion%20for%20Summary%20Judgment.pdf

In addition to the snakes owned by McAdam and Coffee, USARK FL recently learned that on April 5, Officer Wright confiscated a tame Reticulated python from Daniel Golightly. This snake was caught by his daughter, 16-year old snake enthusiast Onya Golightly, after a neighbor requested that the snake be removed from his yard. Onya Golightly found the snake to be very friendly and named it “Frederick.” Officer Wright told Onya’s father, Daniel Golightly, that the snake would be “rehomed.” According the FWC’s Incident Report, on the morning of April 6, “Frederick” was killed with a bolt gun by Officer Wright. Daniel and Onya Golightly were shocked to find out that “Frederick” had been killed by Officer Wright after that fact was revealed to them by USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski at the recent Boyton Beach Reptiday. Onya Golightly caught “Frederick” in Pembroke Pines, over 13 miles from McAdam’s facility in Sunrise. Despite the crawl from Sunrise to Pembroke Pines being an impossible journey for a large and slow moving reptile, FWC used the capture of “Frederick” as cause to initiate contact with Coffee about his pythons, which were also killed by bolt gun later the same day.

Above: FWC Daniel Golightly, Onya Golightly, and USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski at Reptiday Boyton Beach (Photo by Elizabeth Wisneski, who has granted permission for this photo to be distributed and published)

USARK FL’s video detailing the story of Onya Golightly and “Frederick” the Python may be viewed here:

https://youtu.be/p9yZi2A7HkI

Many have questioned FWC’s dispatching technique on these snakes. FWC’s own website describes a two-step euthanasia process for wild pythons. This process involves applying the bolt charge to the head, followed by the complete destruction of the brain by pithing. The officers in this case followed only one of two of those steps.

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/python/humane-killing-methods/

According to veterinarian Dr. Ivan Alfonso DVM, even the field methods FWC describes on its website were not adequate in this case. “Euthanasia guidelines provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) clearly distinguish between ‘in the field’ euthanasia methods versus pet euthanasia methods. These snakes were not wild. Even if they had been wild, using just the bolt gun was only one step in the euthanasia method. If actually necessary, this should have been conducted by a licensed veterinarian or properly-trained veterinary health professional,” said Alfonso. He added, “There is no excuse for using the bolt gun method on pet snakes or pets of any species. The AVMA lists bolt guns and pithing as a secondary method when nothing else is safe or possible on captive reptiles. This was not the case here.”

Dr. Alfonso referred us to page 92 of the AVMA Euthanasia Guidelines:

https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/Guidelines-on-Euthanasia-2020.pdf

For background on this story, see original press release at: www.usarkfl.net/news

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call or text Daniel Parker, Director of Media for USARK FL, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Also contact USARK FL Legal Advisor Curt Harbsmeier 863-640-7484 charbsmeier@hdlaw.com. Media outlets are given permission by Chris Nettles, Chris Coffee, and Elizabeth Wisneski to publish photos and video contained in this press release.

Reptile Enthusiasts and Environmental Advocates to Crash FWC Day at the Capitol

USARK FL — Mon, 01 May 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Reptile Enthusiasts and Environmental Advocates to Crash FWC Day at the Capitol

Though FWC has not put out a press release on the event, this flyer was seen on a bulletin board in the Florida Capitol Building

In the wake of the “Holy Thursday Massacre” on April 6, 2023, a date on which FWC officers killed around three dozen pet snakes including a pregnant Boa constrictor, FWC has quietly announced “FWC Day” at the Capitol for May 2, 2023. The FWC snake slaughter has garnered worldwide media attention and the outrage of animal keepers the world over. Reptile enthusiasts and environmental advocates plan to attend FWC’s lobbying event on Tuesday to inform legislators of FWC’s egregious overreach, killing of animals, and environmental mismanagement.

In addition to Chris Coffee’s cherished pet python “Sweetie” and his other 30 some odd pythons, and Bill McAdam’s Boa “Big Shirl,” we now know that on April 6 FWC officers also killed a tame pet Reticulated python, which was caught in Pembroke Pines by 16-year old Onya Golightly. Golightly, who is known as a budding young snake enthusiast, was called in by a neighbor to wrangle the 10 foot snake, which seemed to be lost. She named the python “Frederick.” This capture was covered by local and national media. What was not covered was the follow-up visit by FWC officers, who seized the snake and promised to “kind the snake a good home” while citing Onya’s father Daniel Golightly with a warning violation for possessing a Prohibited Species. According to FWC’s incident report, this python was killed via bolt gun by Officer Jonathon Wright on the morning of April 6, just hours before Wright joined Officer Lex Corteguera at Bill McAdam’s facility with the bolt gun to dispatch Chris Coffee’s pythons.

FWC has made a statement claiming that the facility owner requested that they euthanize his pythons. Coffee, who was the owner of the pythons, disputes this statement, saying that he was threatened with arrest and that FWC gave him no other choice other than to allow the snakes to be killed. McAdam, who was the owner of the facility, but not the owner of the pythons, also says that he did not request that FWC euthanize the pythons. The body camera footage that FWC has released does not seem to be complete, but it does not back up the claim of FWC in their statement.

Above: Onya Golightly (with her pet Ball pythons) and her father Daniel Golightly recently met USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski at Repticon in Boyton Beach, FL. Onya caught “Frederick” the tame Reticulated python, which was killed with a bolt gun by FWC officer Jonathon Wright. (Photo by Elizabeth Wisneski, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated.)

Regardless of how you may feel about the types of animals involved, none of the Holy Thursday Massacre was necessary and there was no urgency surrounding this event. Big Shirl was a beloved pet Boa constrictor, a species of snake that is docile under human care and commonly kept as pets. A necropsy has revealed that Big Shirl was carrying 32 babies which were only a few weeks away from being born. Boas give birth to live young rather than laying eggs like many other snakes. USARK FL maintains that none of Coffee’s pythons should have been killed because they were legally owned prior to the administrative rule change. As a matter of law, they should have been grandfathered without condition. USARK FL is currently in a lawsuit with FWC challenging validity and constitutionality of these rules and has asked for FWC to stop seizing and euthanizing captive animals until this legal challenge is resolved. Contrary to some media reports, the Reticulated python is not an invasive species in Florida.

Above: The cause of death for Bill McAdam’s 10-year old female boa was a penetrating wound caused by a bolt gun charge, which passed entirely through the snake’s head and exited through the lower jaw. (Photo by Chris Nettles, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated.)

FWC’s killing technique has been condemned as cruel and inhumane. In the video of the incident recorded by Coffee, officers can be seen yanking snakes out of cages, administering a bolt charge to the head, and then leaving the snakes writhing on the floor or throwing them into trash cans. FWC’s own website describes a two-step euthanasia process for wild pythons. This process involves applying the bolt charge to the head, followed by the complete destruction of the brain by pithing. The officers in this case followed only one of two of those steps.

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/python/humane-killing-methods/

According to veterinarian Dr. Ivan Alfonso DVM, even the field methods FWC describes on its website were not adequate in this case. “Euthanasia guidelines provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) clearly distinguish between ‘in the field’ euthanasia methods versus pet euthanasia methods. These snakes were not wild. Even if they had been wild, using just the bolt gun was only one step in the euthanasia method. Being pets, these animals should have been afforded the pet euthanasia method which involves chemical immobilization or sedation and then chemical euthanasia. There was no urgency in this case. If actually necessary, this should have been conducted by a licensed veterinarian or properly-trained veterinary health professional,” said Alfonso. He added, “There is no excuse for using the bolt gun method on pet snakes or pets of any species. The AVMA lists bolt guns and pithing as a secondary method when nothing else is safe or possible on captive reptiles. This was not the case here.”

Dr. Alfonso referred us to page 92 of the AVMA Euthanasia Guidelines:

https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/Guidelines-on-Euthanasia-2020.pdf

Above: The USARK recently made this post about “FWC Day” on social media

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) has posted on social media asking citizens to attend FWC Day at the Capitol and carry their own message to Florida lawmakers. USARK FL hopes to emphasize the following points.

Holy Thursday Massacre

-On April 6, 2023, FWC Officers killed over 30 pet snakes via bolt gun.

-FWC Officers carried out orders that they claimed came from Tallahassee.

-FWC killed a tame pet python named “Frederick,” which had been caught several days prior by 16-yearold Onya Golightly. Officers cited her father for possession of the snake and told them that the snake would go to a good home before killing it via bolt gun.

-FWC killed over 30 pythons, which were previously possessed legally by Chris Coffee under a permit from FWC before they ended that program.

-Coffee cried after FWC officers had him hold the head of his pet snake as they stuck a bolt through its head.

-In the course of killing Coffee’s pythons, including his cherished “Big Sweetie,” FWC officers “inadvertently” killed the facility owner Bill McAdam’s legal pet Boa constrictor named “Big Shirl,” which was pregnant with 32 babies.

-FWC killed all of these snakes by a single bolt gun blow to the head. Many writhed on the floor for a long period of time before being thrown into a trash can in front of their owner.

-The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends a two or three step process for euthanasia, depending on circumstances, which FWC did not follow.

-Vets have condemned FWC’s action as cruel and inhumane to animals.

-At no time did FWC officers mention FWC’s “Amnesty Program,” which FWC markets as a “judgement free” way to rehome pets.

-The Holy Thursday Massacre has received extensive media coverage, which has sparked worldwide outrage.

-FWC has shown little accountability for its egregious actions and has responded to outrage on social media by deleting thousands of negative comments, in violation of the 1^st Amendment.

Video footage shot by Chris Coffee documenting the FWC massacre may be viewed on the USARK FL YouTube channel here:

https://youtu.be/BuimdwINSzk

(Please note that the location of this incident was initially incorrectly reported as Palm Beach County rather than Sunrise in Broward County.)

FWC-Big Government Killing Pets

-FWC has confiscated and killed pets, which are cherished family members.

-FWC law enforcement uses brutal and inhumane killing methods to euthanize pets, in violation of American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines.

-FWC has punished pet owners and businesses with draconian regulation.

-FWC has failed to provide reasonable grandfathering provisions for legally owned pets.

-FWC's crackdown on pet owners has done nothing to address invasive species issues.

-FWC’s shut down of iguana and tegu exports has led to increased wild populations.

-FWC has threatened Florida's animal industries, including the farmers of food animals.

-FWC is moving ahead with regulations without consent of the industries they will damage and the companies they will put out of business.

-FWC's current "Whitelist" regulatory proposals do not have the support of any of Florida's animal industries.

-FWC’s “Whitelist” places a huge burden on law enforcement, which will likely lead to more killing of animals.

FWC-Destroying Florida’s Natural Environment

-FWC has managed Florida's wildlife and natural environments poorly.

-FWC's policies benefit developers and chemical companies, to the detriment of Florida's wildlife and environment.

-FWC's excessive herbicide spraying kills native animals and plants.

-FWC's spraying of aquatic plants kills the foods of manatees and turtles, destroys habitat, and contributes to polluted water.

-FWC continues to starve manatees by spraying their preferred foods.

-FWC spraying leads to excessive nutrient loads, which cause algae blooms, red tide, loss of seagrass, and loss of marine life.

-FWC's contributions to red tide and toxic algae blooms threaten Florida's fish populations, fishing industries, and coastal recreation.

-FWC policies are leading to the deaths of Endangered birds, manatees, panthers, bears, sea turtles, and gopher tortoises.

Above: An FWC officer smiles as he surveys the scene after the killing of 34 pythons and a pregnant pet boa by FWC officers. (Photo by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated.)

For background on this story, see press releases at: www.usarkfl.net/news

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call or text Daniel Parker, Director of Media for USARK FL, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Media outlets are given permission by Elizabeth Wisneski and Chris Coffee to publish photos and video contained in this press release.

Pet Slaughtered by FWC Officers, Necropsy Reveals Unborn Babies

USARK FL — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Pet Slaughtered by FWC Officers, Necropsy Reveals Unborn Babies

(WARNING: Graphic images!)

The value of offspring contained by this pet, a legally owned animal, may have been over $100,000 if they had not been killed by FWC.

A pregnant pet named Big Shirl was inhumanely and unnecessarily slaughtered by Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Law Enforcement Officers on April 6. Big Shirl was raised from birth for over ten years by Bill McAdam. This butchery was part of an event which has become known as the “Holy Thursday Massacre” and it happened at Bill McAdam’s animal facility in Sunrise, FL in Broward County. Video of the incident shows the animal writhing on the floor for more than 20 minutes after the FWC officers administered a single bolt charge to the head. Before reading on, take pause and let it sink in that a healthy, legally owned pet was carelessly destroyed.

The necropsy, performed by Dr. Dale Porcher DVM, found the cause of death of the adult female Boa to be the penetrating wound caused by a bolt gun charge, which passed entirely through the snake’s head and exited through the lower jaw. Dr. Porcher confirmed that the Boa appeared very healthy and the babies were developing normally.

Above: A necropsy has revealed that a pregnant Boa constrictor slaughtered by FWC officers in the “Holy Thursday Massacre” on April 6 contained 32 babies, some of which were valuable “Red Dragon” and “Blood Albino” color varieties. (Photo by Chris Nettles, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated.)

During the Holy Thursday Massacre, FWC officers also killed 29 Reticulated pythons and five Burmese pythons owned by Chris Coffee. FWC considers those python species to be “Prohibited” under rules passed in 2021. Coffee was unable to rehome some of his snakes within the arbitrary 90-day time period allowed by FWC after the ban passed in 2021. After contacting FWC to ask for help, officers executed a constructive seizure on the snakes in February 2022 which forced Coffee to feed and care for the animals until FWC took final action, which did not occur until April 6, 2023 when the animals were killed by officers.

See video on the killing of Big Shirl the Boa and her subsequent necropsy of the USARK FL YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Gxkga_ZPas

Above: FWC officers misidentified McAdam’s pet Boa constrictor as a python and killed it. This 10-year old female boa was raised from a baby by McAdam and was pregnant at the time of her death at the hands of FWC officers. The officers tried to take the carcass of this snake along with those of Coffee’s pythons, but Coffee insisted that they leave it in the freezer at McAdam’s facility for necropsy. (Photos by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated.)

Many have questioned FWC’s dispatching technique on these snakes. In the video of the incident recorded by Coffee, officers can be seen yanking snakes out of cages, administering a bolt charge to the head, and then leaving the snakes writhing on the floor or throwing them into trash cans. FWC’s own website describes a two-step euthanasia process for wild pythons. This process involves applying the bolt charge to the head, followed by the complete destruction of the brain by pithing. The officers in this case followed only one of two of those steps.

https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/python/humane-killing-methods/

According to veterinarian Dr. Ivan Alfonso DVM, even the field methods FWC describes on its website were not adequate in this case. “Euthanasia guidelines provided by theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) clearly distinguish between ‘in the field’ euthanasia methods versus pet euthanasia methods. These snakes were not wild. Even if they had been wild, using just the bolt gun was only one step in the euthanasia method. Being pets, these animals should have been afforded the pet euthanasia method which involves chemical immobilization or sedation and then chemical euthanasia. There was no urgency in this case. If actually necessary, this should have been conducted by a licensed veterinarian or properly-trained veterinary health professional,” said Alfonso. He added, “There is no excuse for using the bolt gun method on pet snakes or pets of any species. The AVMA lists bolt guns and pithing as a secondary method when nothing else is safe or possible on captive reptiles. This was not the case here.”

Dr. Alfonso referred us to page 92 of the AVMA Euthanasia Guidelines: https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/Guidelines-on-Euthanasia-2020.pdf

The value of the baby boas in the reptile hobby is estimated at potentially over $100,000. The litter of babies likely included rare color morphs known as “Red Dragon” and “Blood Albino,” some of which are known to sell for $5000 to $7500 each. Aside from just the value of this litter, the long-term value of the female boa as a breeder over the course of her lifetime must be considered. Regardless of the snake’s monetary value or the value of her offspring, owner Bill McAdam just misses his pet, Big Shirl. “It was heart wrenching,” said Bill McAdam in a media interview. “That’s one snake that had a name because she was special,” he added.

Undeniable Facts Regarding the April 6 Killing of 35 Snakes

1. A Boa constrictor was misidentified and killed. This boa was completely legal to own in Florida as Boa constrictors are not on the FWC Prohibited Species list in Florida. The snake was 10-years-old and had been raised by the owner, Bill McAdam, since it was a baby. The boa was gravid (pregnant) with 32 fully-developed babies.

2. 29 reticulated pythons and 5 Burmese pythons were also killed. All appeared healthy. All snakes were in locked cages. All snakes were microchipped, registered, and on documented inventory with FWC as the owner was in full compliance with the Conditional Species Permit rules before that program was terminated by FWC for these species in 2021.

3. On February 7, 2022 (14 months prior to this incident), FWC visited Chris Coffee (owner of the 34 pythons that were killed) and cited him with several dozen counts for violations to the new Prohibited Species rules passed by FWC in 2021. During this February 2022 visit, FWC informed Coffee that he had to keep all of the snakes. He was not allowed to sell, rehome, or euthanize them.

4. On February 7, 2022, FWC executed a constructive seizure. This FWC-issued constructive seizure meant the agency seized the property (snakes) but the property was left in the control of the owner (Coffee). Coffee had to keep and maintain, with no other option, the animals until FWC took final action (which was not until 14 months later). Basically, a constructive seizure means that property has been officially seized by law enforcement but they will come back to take physical possession at a later date.

5. Chris Coffee fed, maintained, and humanely kept all of these pythons from February 2022 until April 6, 2023 (as ordered by FWC in February 2022). On April 6, FWC officers killed 34 of Coffee’s animals, many of which he hatched and raised, along with the misidentified boa constrictor.

6. 29 of the snakes killed were reticulated pythons. Reticulated pythons ARE NOT an invasive species in Florida and this has been misreported in many media articles.

7. These pythons were killed because FWC moved the species from Conditional Species to Prohibited Species. Licensed individuals who had been raising, breeding and selling (only to out-of-state buyers or other Florida Conditional Species Permit holders) for many years were not grandfathered. FWC did not allow snake breeders and sellers to keep any of the snakes, even as non-breeding pets. These Conditional Species owners had only 90 days to sell, euthanize, or rehome all of their animals. Coffee had sold most of his snakes within the 90 days but not all of them. When the Prohibited Species rules passed, some exhibitors and zoos were allowed to keep some animals now listed as Prohibited Species, but snake keepers and breeders were NOT allowed to be grandfathered.

8. The 34 pythons owned by Chris Coffee were being kept at a facility owned by Bill McAdam (owner of the killed boa constrictor). Coffee informed FWC that this is where the snakes were housed.

9. On April 6, the one-step process utilized was inhumane and unlawful. The officers failed to complete a two-step process but even this two-step process is intended only for emergency and “in the wild” purposes. This situation did not require the snakes to be killed in this manner, or at all.

10. The FWC officers did not follow the two-step process for humanely killing reptiles as stipulated by FWC that is even publicly posted on its own website. The officers only performed Step 1 and never completed the humane process by carrying out Step 2.

This protocol is posted at: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/python/humane-killing-methods/

11. The camera that filmed the killing of the snakes was not a hidden camera and the FWC officers were made aware that the camera was filming.

Video footage shot by Chris Coffee documenting the FWC massacre may be viewed on the USARK FL YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/BuimdwINSzk

(Please note that the location of this incident was initially incorrectly reported as Palm Beach County rather than Sunrise in Broward County.)

For background on this story, see original press release at: www.usarkfl.net/news

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call or text Daniel Parker, Director of Media for USARK FL, at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Also contact USARK FL Legal Advisor Curt Harbsmeier 863-640-7484 charbsmeier@hdlaw.com. Media outlets are given permission by Chris Nettles, and Chris Coffee to publish photos and video contained in this press release.

FWC Officers Slaughter Pet Boa and 34 other Snakes on Holy Thursday

USARK FL — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:35:35 GMT

FWC Officers Slaughter Pet Boa and 34 other Snakes on Holy Thursday

USARK Florida Calls on Governor DeSantis to ask for resignation of FWC leaders and the immediate end to forced euthanasia of captive animals by FWC

Above: An FWC officer smiles as he surveys the scene after the killing of 34 pythons and a pregnant pet boa by FWC officers (Photo by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Law Enforcement Officers showed up at a reptile facility in Sunrise and slaughtered 34 pythons and one pregnant boa constrictor. The pet Boa constrictor was misidentified as a python and, according to its owner Bill McAdam, executed via "nail gun to the head" by four FWC officers. The FWC officers also killed 29 Reticulated pythons and five Burmese pythons owned by Chris Coffee. Under prior directive from FWC, Coffee was forced to maintain the snakes in captivity for over a year since an arbitrary deadline had passed to rehome the animals.

Coffee had a large collection of both Reticulated and Burmese pythons, which were possessed legally with a "Conditional Species Permit," before FWC made that permit obsolete by passing "Prohibited Species" rules in 2021. Therefore, his animals should have been grandfathered in and exempt from the new regulations. Nonetheless, after the rules banning the snakes were passed, Coffee chose to rehome 120 of his pythons, but he was unable to disperse all of his collection before an arbitrary FWC deadline. In an effort to remain on good terms with FWC, Coffee notified FWC in good faith about a year ago that he was having difficulties rehoming his animals in the short amount of time allowed by FWC. He asked FWC for more time, believing that he had no choice.

FWC responded by raiding Coffee's facility, arresting him, and issuing him two charges for each Reticulated and Burmese python possessed, for a total of 72 criminal charges. However, rather than seize the animals, FWC officers told Coffee that he had to continue to keep the snakes in captivity and that he could not rehome or euthanize them or he would be arrested again. Coffee's life has been turned upside down and he is still on probation as a result of the charges that never should have been issued against him.

Above: FWC Officer poses for picture with a freshly-killed captive bred Hypomelanistic Burmese python named “Sweetie,” before the snake’s carcass is unceremoniously thrown into a trash can. (Photo by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated)

Coffee's pythons were maintained at the facility of Bill McAdam with FWC's full knowledge of their whereabouts for approximately a year, until FWC's raid and subsequent massacre on Thursday, April 6, 2023. On that date, coinciding with the observance of Passover and Holy Thursday, FWC officers Lex Corteguera, Jonathon Wright, Zach Beppel, and Christopher Ryan showed up to McAdams' facility, alleging that they had a report of an escaped Reticulated python in the area.

The officers said that they wanted to check to see if it was one of Coffee's snakes that had escaped. This turned out to not be the real reason for their visit. After Coffee allowed them into the facility, the officers began pulling snakes out of their enclosures and killing them, with what Coffee described as a sort of nail gun, on the floor of McAdam's facility. The device used to kill the snakes was likely a device called a "penetrating captive bolt gun." The FWC officers spent around four hours killing snakes, firing multiple shots to the heads of some snakes when it appeared that the first shots failed to kill them. When it was all done, they had killed 29 Reticulated pythons and five Burmese pythons, in addition to the misidentified Boa constrictor. The reptile community is calling this event the “Holy Thursday Massacre.” Social media posts on this horrific story have received tens of thousands of views.

Above: FWC officers misidentified McAdam’s pet Boa constrictor as a python and killed it. This 10-year old female boa was raised from a baby by McAdam and was pregnant at the time of her death at the hands of FWC officers. The officers tried to take the carcass of this snake along with those of Coffee’s pythons, but Coffee insisted that they leave it in the freezer at McAdam’s facility for future necropsy. (Photos by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated)

Boas are legal to own in Florida and are among the most popular pet snakes. This Boa was ten years old, and gravid (the term for pregnant in snakes). According to McAdam, this Boa was a cherished pet that he had raised from a baby. Regardless of how you may feel about snakes, these were innocent, healthy animals and there were many alternatives to this unwarranted butchery. Imagine if these were dogs, goats, or horses. Would you be infuriated then?

This is not the first instance where FWC has either seized or killed animals which were legally possessed before the Prohibited Species rules took effect. Though FWC Commissioners promised animal owners that they would be able to keep their pets when the rules were passed, that has turned out not to be true. Last year, FWC officer Bob O'Horo confiscated 87 iguanas from Ty Park, the owner of IguanaLand. Over 30 of those iguanas were reportedly euthanized by FWC, while the others eventually found homes out of state. In yet another case, FWC officer Mia Ruggiero threatened to seize and euthanize "Green Day the Iguana," the mascot of Rotary Park in Cape Coral, before embarrassing media coverage caused FWC to backtrack and eventually permit the park to continue to keep "Green Day" and other "Prohibited" lizards on display. FWC has not made such accommodations for Steve Tishfield, who voluntarily microchipped and registered his 23-year old and 16-year old pet iguanas as suggested by former FWC Nonnative Species Biologist Kristen Penney Sommers, who has since resigned from the agency. FWC officer Damon Saunders, who recently investigated Tishfield and his iguanas, admitted on camera that the Tishfield's caging was secure, but said that he had missed “the deadline” to apply for a permit and he therefore would not be able to continue to keep his pet iguanas. Tishfield now fears for his longtime pets' lives.

USARK Florida questions how FWC officers who are not competent enough to identify animals properly are empowered by the state to kill them. We believe that in instances where euthanasia is absolutely necessary, the animals should be identified by an expert and only euthanized by a qualified veterinarian using the most humane methods possible.

Above: Blood, feces, and urates cover the floor of Bill McAdam’s facility after what reptile keepers are calling the “Holy Thursday Massacre.” (Photo by Chris Coffee, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated)

USARK FL is calling for a full investigation into the killing of McAdam's Boa constrictor and Coffee’s Pythons by the officers Corteguera, Wright, Beppel, and Ryan by new FWC Inspector General (IG) Percy Griffin. Griffin was appointed earlier this year after previous Inspector General Michael Troelstrup resigned in disgrace with the revelation of a scandal involving his "inappropriate relationship" with the wife of an FWC officer whom he was investigating.

https://localtoday.news/fl/states-top-investigator-resigns-over-conflict-of-interest-orlando-sentinel-219698.html

Before that scandal became public, controversy surrounded the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in the aftermath of the shooting of an individual named Adam Bounds in 2019. Bounds was shot three times by FWC officer David Dipre on his own houseboat off Key West. The shooting happened less than two hours after Bounds had called the FWC OIG to ask that local FWC officers be investigated because they continually entered his home without permission and he feared for his life. After surviving three Glock 9mm bullet wounds from FWC officer Dipre, Bounds was charged with, among other things, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer. A jury subsequently found him NOT GUILTY following trial. We hope that IG Griffin will be better equipped to handle an investigation than the previous Inspector General.

https://thebluepaper.com/police-shooting-jury-doesnt-buy-fwcs-story/

USARK Florida is also calling on Governor DeSantis to hold FWC accountable by asking for the resignation of the FWC employee who gave the unjust order for these snakes to be brutally killed without cause. Further, USARK Florida respectfully requests that the Governor replace current staff leadership with new leadership, capable of focusing agency resources on Florida’s true wildlife issues, including but not limited to excessive mortality of wild Manatees, Florida panthers, Gopher tortoises, and Diamondback terrapins, as well as address water and habitat quality issues caused by FWC's extensive herbicide spraying program.

Furthermore, we ask that FWC suspend its seizure and killing of animals as well as prosecution of animal owners for "Prohibited Species," until USARK Florida's lawsuit challenging the validity and constitutionality of these draconian rules is resolved. FWC Commissioners and staff promised that animal owners would be able to continue to keep their pets, which has proven over and over to not be true.

Below: Boa constrictors, like this Albino specimen, are among the most popular pet snakes. Just like all pet keepers, reptile keepers consider their pets to be valued members of the family. (Photo by Daniel Parker, who has granted permission for this photo to be published and disseminated)

Video footage shot by Chris Coffee documenting the FWC massacre may be viewed on the USARK FL YouTube channel here:https://youtu.be/BuimdwINSzk

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Daniel Parker, Director of Media for USARK FL at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Also contact USARK FL Legal Advisor Curt Harbsmeier 863-640-7484 charbsmeier@hdlaw.com Media outlets are given permission by Daniel Parker and Chris Coffee to publish the photos contained in this press release.

Venomous Reptiles Bill Amended to Exclude Native Species

USARK FL — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:45:46 GMT

Venomous Reptiles Bill Amended to Exclude Native Species

Conservation advocates had expressed concern over far-reaching impacts, believe additional action still necessary

Above: This juvenile Florida Cottonmouth was captured, tagged, and released as part of a UCF research project. (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Animal welfare advocates, scientists, nuisance wildlife trappers, and snake enthusiasts are pleased with an amendment that exempts native venomous snake species from the Venomous Reptiles bill moving through the Florida legislature. The original language of the bill would have made it a felony to release live, native venomous snakes for research, conservation, or humane relocation purposes.

The sponsor of HB1161, Representative Shane Abbott (R), reported to a representative of the United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) that he amended the bill after receiving a flurry of phone calls from concerned citizens late last week. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) staff present at the hearing also said that they were in favor of the amendment. Daniel Parker, currently an Environmental Scientist for DRMP and Director of Media for USARK FL said, “I am very pleased with Representative Abbott’s amendment. His response to public outcry proves that government can effectively work with stakeholders to improve the conservation value of legislation. FWC’s involvement on this is also very encouraging.”

Stakeholders from Florida Gulf Coast University, University of Central Florida, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Ashton Biodiversity Research and Preservation Institute, The Rattlesnake Conservancy, Bear Warriors United, and USARK FL raised concerns on the original language of the bill.

Above: Daniel Parker captured, tagged, and released this juvenile Florida cottonmouth as part of research project for UCF. (Photo by Adam Casavant)

FWC drafted the text for HB1161 and the accompanying Senate version SB1266 and has lobbied their progress under the pretext of preventing the illegal sale and release of venomous reptiles, especially nonnative species. However, the broad wording of the original text of the bill also imposed felony penalties for the release of native venomous snakes, with no exceptions for research or humane relocation. The amended version of the bill will apply only to nonnative venomous reptile species. Release of nonnative venomous snakes is already illegal under current FWC rules. This bill will increase penalties. Under the provisions of this bill, a violation will be punishable by up to five years prison, five years probation, and a $5,000 fine.

Above: Florida Gulf Coast University graduate student Ella Guedouar appeared on NBC2 to discuss the bill before the amendment exempting native species was madel. See NBC2/ABC7 story here: https://abc--7-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/abc-7.com/news/science/2023/03/23/new-venomous-snake-bill-could-jeopardize-swfl-ecosystem/amp/?amp_gsa=1&amp_js_v=a9

Native venomous snakes are frequently captured and released in scientific research projects. “We capture snakes,” said FGCU graduate student and member of the “snake team,” Ella Guedouar, speaking to NBC News 2. Guedouar catches and releases native venomous snakes to keep them from being killed by home owners. “A lot of time, we get calls from the community members around FGCU – there might be snakes in the yard. We capture the snake, take measurements of it, and then release it in an area where it might be safe from people, and people will be safe from them.”

Venomous License holders must adhere to strict facility standards, such as maintaining a Florida Building Commission data plate documenting the structural soundness of the facility. They must maintain locked and sealed rooms and build a double entrance to provide secondary containment in the case of an escape. These requirements are enforced by regular FWC inspections. Though these strict facility requirements may be helpful in preventing escapes of captive nonnative snakes, they are not applicable to instances of native snakes being relocated. Stakeholders have asked FWC to consider separate licensing requirements for relocators.

Above: Screenshot from FWC’s website giving their interpretation that nuisance wildlife trappers who do not have FWC’s Venomous Reptiles license may kill venomous snakes, but may not relocate them alive. (https://myfwc.com/license/captive-wildlife/faq/)

Tony Daly-Crews of The Rattlesnake Conservancy released this statement:

We are happy to see the State Legislature moving in the right direction for Florida's wildlife. However, a longstanding position of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is to the detriment of our native venomous reptiles - such as the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, a species being considered for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Nuisance wildlife trappers that often respond to venomous and non-venomous snakes in people's backyards are required to have a state permit to possess venomous reptiles in order to legally relocate a snake; this permit has onerous requirements and under 5% of nuisance wildlife trappers in the state have it. Instead, the position of FWCC is that if a nuisance wildlife trapper does not have a permit to possess venomous reptiles, the trapper's only options are to either kill the animal on-site or leave the homeowner to fend for themselves; both options generally result in death of our native wildlife.

Parker also believes that other facets of venomous snake research, rescue, and relocation still need to be addressed. “Now that the conservation of Florida’s snakes has the public’s attention, this would be an ideal time to discuss the legal requirements for live capture, transport, and release of native venomous snakes." Parker continued. “FWC’s venomous rules were written with the intent to regulate those who keep venomous snakes in captivity at a physical facility. They discourage qualified people who have no interest in keeping snakes in captivity, but would humanely relocate native snakes if the licensing requirements were more reasonable. FWC’s current policy actually encourages people to kill venomous snakes, which also puts people at risk because they are sometimes bitten while trying to kill the snakes.”

USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski said, “This amendment is a good thing for native venomous snakes.” She added, “We are still looking for clear definitions on terms like ‘gross negligence’ and how they apply to reptile keepers. The language of the bill needs to be very clear. We are concerned about how broad interpretation by law enforcement could cause hardship for people in our industry, as it has on other issues. We will continue to communicate our concerns to our elected representatives.”

View the bills at these links:

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Daniel Parker, Director of Media for USARK FL at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Media outlets are given permission by Daniel Parker and Adam Casavant to print the photos contained in this press release.

Venomous Reptiles Bill to Make Release a Felony Offense

USARK FL — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Venomous Reptiles Bill to Make Release a Felony Offense

Snake lovers express concern over far-reaching impacts

Above: Eastern coral snake, one of six venomous snakes native to Florida (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Animal welfare advocates, scientists, nuisance wildlife trappers, and snake enthusiasts are concerned that a bill moving through the Florida legislature will make it a felony to release a live, native venomous snake for research, conservation, or humane relocation purposes. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) drafted the text for SB1164 and the accompanying HB1161 and has lobbied their progress under the pretext of preventing the illegal sale and release of venomous reptiles, especially nonnative species. However, the broad wording of the text of the bill seems to prohibit the humane relocation and release of native venomous snakes.

Florida is home to six native species of venomous snakes. These include the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Canebrake (Timber) rattlesnake, Dusky pygmy rattlesnake, Florida cottonmouth (“Water moccasin”), Southern copperhead, and Eastern coral snake. Two of those species, the Canebrake rattlesnake and Southern copperhead, are only found in small areas of Northern Florida. The Eastern diamonback rattlesnake is a candidate species for Federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. Despite the prevalence of these species in Florida, bites are relatively rare. The majority of snake bites in Florida involve people intentionally handling or trying to kill the snakes.

Above: Dusky pygmy rattlesnake, the smallest of Florida’s venomous snakes (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Above: Canebrake rattlesnake, a species only occurring in northeastern Florida (Photo by Daniel Parker)

The concerning text of the bill is as follows: "A person who knowingly releases a venomous reptile or who through gross negligence allows a venomous reptile to escape commits a Level 4 violation, punishable as provided in 379.4015." The text of the bill does not specify that it applies to nonnative venomous species.

Under the provisions of this bill, a violation of this law will be punishable by up to five years prison, five years probation, and a $5,000 fine. Data does not support the claim that increased penalties reduce violations. However, such punitive measures are often politically popular.

Native venomous snakes are frequently captured and released in scientific research projects. Stetson University is well known for its decades of research on biology and habitats of Dusky pygmy rattlesnakes in Central Florida. University of Central Florida has conducted several studies on the impacts of roads on wildlife which have necessitated the capture, tagging, and recapture of native venomous snakes. "Venomous snakes play a valuable role in the ecology of Florida's last remaining wild regions," said Daniel Parker, an environmental scientist with DRMP and formerly of University of Central Florida. "Research on the ecology of native venomous snake species is necessary to understand the ecosystem as a whole. Without exceptions in the language of the bill, that valuable research is threatened," said Parker.

Above: Eastern diamondback rattlesnake trapped for research by University of Central Florida (Photo by Adam Casavant)

Above: Eastern diamondback rattlesnake captured for research by Daniel Parker of University of Central Florida before being tagged and released (Photo by Adam Casavant)

Above: Eastern diamondback rattlesnake captured, tagged, and released as part of a University of Central Florida research project (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Tony Daly-Crews, founder of the Rattlesnake Conservancy, said of the bill, “If applied in the way it is read, any permittee would not be able to legally capture and relocate or release captured study animals.” Daly-Crews is not alone in his concern. Chase Pirtle, biologist and Manager of the Ashton Biological Preserve, said, "This bill has the potential to hinder conservation efforts, community education, as well as vital field research. FWC continues to focus on issues that are not addressing Florida's true conservation threats."

Nuisance wildlife trappers have also expressed concern that this bill would eliminate humane relocation of native venomous snakes. Most of these trappers prefer to relocate live venomous snakes away from residential areas and release them in areas where they pose little risk to people. Reptile enthusiast Marisa Ai Ishimatsu commented, “Basically they want all venomous snakes to be killed? That seems to be the only way to deal with a nuisance snake that’s been removed.”

Above: Southern Copperhead, a species only found in some areas of the Florida panhandle (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Above: Florida cottonmouth (or “Water moccasin”) showing white interior of the mouth (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Glenn Bartolotti, the founder of Project Simus Florida, an organization which promotes conservation of native snakes and protection of habitat, said, "This bill doesn't fix any problems with our environment or conservation of our wildlife; it complicates things and creates more problems." Bartolotti added, "They're making too many rules that can't be followed in any kind of logical manner. The only thing that is really going to help Florida's environment is to stop destroying it."

Katrina Shadix of Bear Warriors United released a statement on her Facebook page addressing the bill: "With 1000 new people moving to Florida every day, it is unfortunate that some of them have trouble accepting and peacefully coexisting with our native wildlife, be that bears or snakes. I'm constantly seeing people post on social media about killing snakes and other animals. By failing to provide a humane option for live relocation of venomous snakes, this bill is encouraging people to kill snakes. This law could make the assault on our native wildlife even worse than it is now. I hope that this bill will be reconsidered so that it does not discourage those who might relocate native snakes for humane or conservation purposes."

Out of concern for the potential for overreach by FWC, the United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) requested the text of the bill after it was announced as a legislative initiative at the December 2022 FWC meeting. FWC did not comply with this request. "We are not against reasonable regulation," said USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski. She added, "Unfortunately, as with other FWC rules and legislation created without stakeholder input, this bill will likely have unintended consequences."

To obtain a permit from FWC to keep venomous reptiles in captivity, permittees must document 1000 hours of experience working with the family of the venomous reptile they intend to keep. They must also adhere to strict facility and caging standards, which are enforced by regular FWC inspections. Florida is one of the top producers in the world of venom to support the production of antivenin to treat snake bite.

FWC has indicated that the primary intent of this legislation is to enhance penalties for violations of existing law. Statistics do not support the need for that. Historically, there have been relatively few citations issued for activities involving venomous reptiles, because the vast majority of individuals who work with venomous reptiles comply with the law.

Central Florida attorney and noted conservationist Curt Harbsmeier said, "They are turning law abiding citizens, most of whom have no criminal record whatsoever, into criminals in many cases. Absent malice aforethought, none of this stuff should be a felony."

View the bills at these links:

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1164

https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=77947&SessionId=99

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

USARK FL FILES MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT IN LAWSUIT AGAINST FWC ON BEHALF OF REPTILE KEEPERS

USARK FL — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMT

USARK FL FILES MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT IN LAWSUIT AGAINST FWC ON BEHALF OF REPTILE KEEPERS

Above: Various captive color morphs of Green Iguana, a common pet species banned in 2021 by FWC’s “Prohibited Species” rules (Photo by Travis deLagerheim, who has granted permission for his photo to be reprinted for release)

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) has filed a Motion for Summary Judgment in their lawsuit against the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in case number 2021-CA-977 in Leon County Circuit Court. USARK FL and several individual USARK FL members are challenging FWC's 2021 rule amendments that moved several species, including Green iguanas and Tegus, to a newly-created "Prohibited Species" list, essentially ending the live animal trade in these species in Florida.

An excerpt from USARK FL’s Summary of Argument in the Motion for Summary Judgment is copied here:

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (“FWC”) is constitutionally endowed with the regulatory and executive power of the state with respect to “wild animal life.” Art. IV, § 9, Fla. Const. (emphasis added). With this provision as its exclusive authority, FWC amended chapter 68-5, Florida Administrative Code (“Amended Rules”), in February 2021 with the goal of prohibiting the commercial breeding of certain caged animals including Plaintiffs’.

FWC plays a critical role in protecting, preserving, and promoting Florida’s wild animal life, but like every other executive agency, FWC must stay within its constitutional lane and observe due process when rulemaking. FWC has done neither in adopting the Amended Rules. This is a facial and as applied challenge to the Amended Rules asking this Court to declare whether they have the unconstitutional purpose and effect of prohibiting commercial breeding of caged animals that are not “wild animal life” and have no adverse impacts on wild animal life.

Plaintiffs also ask this Court to declare whether FWC has violated procedural due process under state law by virtue of: failing to notice the actual purpose of the Amended Rules to shutter the breeding industry; failing to consider statements of lower cost regulatory alternative (“LCRAs”) proposed by Plaintiff USARK Florida on behalf of its members due to the unnoticed purpose; failing to prepare an adequate statement of estimated regulatory costs (“SERC”); failing to enact the Amended Rules on a credible biological basis; and biasing the final rule adoption hearing.

In 2010, FWC created the Conditional Species list and associated regulations with the input of reptile keepers. Conditional Species rules allowed keepers to obtain a permit to work with certain nonnative species of reptiles, such as Burmese pythons, under a system that required microchipping of animals, adherence to strict caging standards, and regular inspections by FWC. Conditional Species regulations were successful in preventing escapes and releases of the nonnative species they regulated. During the rule making process that resulted in the 2021 rule changes, USARK FL asked that FWC maintain the Conditional Species framework and even suggested that FWC could place Green iguanas and Tegus on the Conditional Species list, as those species were previously subject to less stringent regulation. FWC rejected this input and instead moved all of the impacted species to the “Prohibited Species” list, which prompted this lawsuit.

USARK FL’s Motion for Summary Judgement may be viewed here:

https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/resources/Documents/Filed%20Motion%20for%20Summary%20Judgment.pdf

For the most up-to-date case docket, use the search function on the Leon County Circuit Court website and input case number 2021 CA 977. Be sure to disable pop-up blockers on your browser to allow the site to function properly.

https://cvweb.leonclerk.com/public/online_services/search_courts/search_by_name.asp

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

FWC Continues to Fall Short on Diamondback Terrapin Conservation

USARK FL — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:00:00 GMT

FWC Continues to Fall Short on Diamondback Terrapin Conservation

Poaching of Diamondback terrapins continues. Commercial crab traps may continue to drown terrapins, despite new requirements for by-catch reduction devices on recreational traps.

Above: Carolina Diamondback terrapins drowned in crab trap in Northeast FL (Photo courtesy of Holland Incitti)

There are many challenges facing Diamondback terrapins in the wild. The biggest of these may be drowning in crab traps. As FWC’s new requirement of “by-catch reduction devices” (BRD) on recreational crab traps goes into effect today, March 1, 2023, commercial crab traps are likely to continue to drown terrapins. By favoring commercial crabbers over recreational crabbers, FWC is violating the spirit of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Road mortality and predation by subsidized predators like raccoons continues. Threats to terrapin habitats from coastal development still persist. With high demand and market values, the motives for poaching still exist.

Above: Shell of dead adult female Ornate diamondback terrapin found at a known nesting site in Hernando County, FL, likely the result of predation by a raccoon. (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Above: Roadkill hatchling Ornate diamondback terrapin in Hernando County, FL (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Florida’s turtle breeders believed that they could help address at least one of those threat as they supported a program allowing for captive breeding of terrapins and the sale of captive bred offspring. The result would be the availability of a captive bred alternative to poached wild caught animals in the market and an assurance colony of terrapins as a backup to wild populations. Terrapins reproduce readily in captivity. Florida turtle breeders already produce millions of captive bred turtles annually. A single facility in Okeechobee County produces 500,000 turtles per year. Several other breeders report producing many thousands of captive bred turtles per year.

Above: Female Diamondback Terrapin nesting in captivity (Photo by Ed Komara Jr.)

The Diamondback terrapin is a unique species of turtle that inhabits Florida’s salt marshes and mangrove swamps. Due to their beauty and personable nature, people all over the world like to keep terrapins as pets. The high demand for terrapins in Asia, especially China, has driven illegal wild collection to dangerous and potentially unsustainable levels. USARK FL (United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida) proposed a program to FWC to allow the legal captive breeding of terrapins in Florida to supply the trade with captive bred animals, which it believed would discourage illegal collection of wild terrapins. That proposal may be seen here:

A Proposal for the Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins.pdf

Founder of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG), Russ Gurley, has offered positive comments on captive breeding to FWC. “Captive breeding of threatened species not only alleviates the need for people to remove turtles from nature, but it assures that future hobbyists have access to healthy, stress-free, parasite-free animals,” said Gurley. He added, “Captive breeding helps create assurance colonies across the country in case a need arises to repopulate areas that have been wiped out by manmade or natural disasters. We strongly believe that legal captive breeding of Diamondback Terrapins in Florida could supply the reptile trade with these healthy, captive-bred offspring and remove great pressure placed on wild populations.”

Colette Adams, Deputy Director of Gladys Porter Zoo, and a noted expert on the breeding and conservation of turtles, has supported USARK FL’s proposal. Adams said, “As a member of the IUCN Crocodilian Specialists Group, I can say as a matter of fact, that there are a number of species that have been saved from extinction by sustained utilization, by breeding them in captivity and preventing their capture from the wild.”

Ashton Biodiversity Research and Preservation Institute, an organization that was instrumental in convincing FWC to end legal entombment of gopher tortoises over a decade ago, now supports the implementation of a captive breeding program for terrapins. “We believe that allowing turtle breeders in Florida to breed this species in captivity would provide a source of animals for commerce. The availability of healthy, captive bred terrapins would provide an alternative to terrapins illegally collected from the wild. This in turn will significantly help the Diamondback terrapins and the ecosystems they inhabit. A captive breeding population of Diamondback terrapins could also serve as a source to help restore wild populations with genetic diversity if the terrapin’s population continues to decline in the wild,” said Pat Ashton, Director of the Institute.

Chase Pirtle, Manager of Ashton Biological Preserve, stated that “due to the current threats terrapins are facing, as well as the challenges they will be confronted with in the foreseen future, a captive breeding program for the Diamondback terrapin is essential for the future of this species.”

Respected herpetologists Dirk Stevenson (Altamaha Environmental Consulting, The Orianne Society), and Dr. David Rostral (Georgia Southwestern University) have also offered their endorsements of USARK FL’s captive breeding proposal.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257538487_Conservation_that's_more_than_skin-deep_Alligator_farming

National Geographic reported that after the Colombian government permitted a captive breeding program of Poison dart frogs to supply the international pet trade, the price of the most highly-demanded species fell from $150 to $35, thus making it economically impractical for illegal traffickers to risk collecting and smuggling them. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/poison-dart-frogs-breeding-colombia-wildlife

The BBC recently reported that scientists at the University of Durham in the UK have advocated for captive breeding and commercialization as a strategy to recover songbird populations which have been impacted by over collection for the Asian pet trade.

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-62918776#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16633863476153&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.com%2Fnews%2Fscience-environment-62918776

Dr. Whit Gibbons of University of Georgia and founder of Southeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (SEPARC) supports the captive breeding proposal for Diamondback terrapins. “The availability of captive-bred animals removes pressure on wild populations,” said Gibbons. He continues, “USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service) has given a positive statement about alligator snappers being raised in captivity.” Gibbons refers to a recent USFWS document proposing the Federal listing of the Alligator Snapping turtle, which states: “The service recognizes that turtle farming can alleviate harvest of wild stock and provides a means to serve international markets without affecting wild populations in the future.”

Gibbons added, “The examples of other species of animals where captive breeding has been implemented as a solution to reduce pressure on wild populations are encouraging. Diamondback terrapins mature quickly and breed easily in captivity. They produce many offspring, ensuring that breeders would be able to impact markets fairly quickly.”

Above: Dr. Whit Gibbons of University of Georgia and Daniel Parker of USARK FL at the International Herpetological Symposium in Atlanta, GA 6-13-22 (Photo by Parker Gibbons)

Stephen Chew, the author of the book Diamondback Terrapins: Gems of the Turtle World said, “Prohibiting the collection of wild animals increase their black market value if the demand is not met with captive bred specimens. This in turn incentivizes

illegal activity such as animal trafficking.”

Daniel Parker, a Spokesperson for USARK FL, said, “Our goal should be to keep wild terrapins in the wild. Unfortunately, banning terrapins as pets or for breeding has not really accomplished that goal.” Parker, who is also a conservation biologist and turtle breeder, added, “Prohibition has only increased the value of these animals in the trade, especially in Asia. Prices are sometimes in the thousands of dollars per terrapin, depending on the subspecies. This provides ample motivation for people to poach them out of the wild.”

“A captive breeding program should be regulated to ensure that any turtles sold can be verified as captive bred offspring and that adult breeder animals are not replaced with wild caught animals,” added Parker.

Portia Sapp, the Aquaculture Director for FDACS (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) said that her department is willing to administer a terrapin breeding program, as they already do with other turtle farmers, so the program would not require FWC to incur additional administrative costs.

Despite widespread support from conservation groups, scientists, and turtle breeders, at the FWC Commission Meeting November 1, 2022, the FWC Commissioners decided to not consider captive breeding as a conservation solution. USARK FL’s proposal for the captive breeding of terrapins was not allowed to be presented to the Commissioners, despite requests from USARK FL to FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto and FWC biologist Melissa Tucker. During the meeting, Melissa Tucker presented an incorrect timeline of the history of regulations to the Commission, stating that terrapin breeding had been banned in 2006, when in fact captive breeding was not effectively banned until FWC banned possession of terrapins in 2021. Despite Tucker’s claim, no new rule concerning Diamondback terrapins was made in 2006. The majority of public stakeholder comments, including at the meeting and in FWC webinars leading up to the meeting, was in favor of a captive breeding program. A notable exception was the Center for Biological Diversity, which consistently supports all bans of reptiles in captivity.

Recent seizures of poached wild caught Mangrove Diamondback terrapins by FWC have proven that poaching of wild terrapins will continue to be a problem unless the supply of legal captive bred animals increases. The Mangrove terrapin subspecies, which is found only in Florida, fetches prices of over $10,000 per animal in the trade. Threats to wild Diamondback terrapins in Florida will continue to include mortality from drowning in crab traps, habitat destruction, sea level rise, road mortality, predation, and poaching.

Below: Ornate diamondback terrapin in Hernando County, FL (Photo by Daniel Parker)

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

Pet Businesses respond to FWC Chairman Barreto’s call for “Shut Down”

USARK FL — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 14:30:00 GMT

FWC Interim Executive Director Thomas Eason and Chairman Rodney Barreto at the FWC Commission Meeting 2-21-23, Photo by Daniel Parker

FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto's call for immediate action to restrict nonnative species was stunning to pet keepers, small businesses, and farmers who have been working with FWC staff on a "Technical Assistance Group" (TAG) to address nonnative species issues within Florida. At the last TAG meeting on February 9, 2023, FWC Biologist Sarah Funck told the members of the group that they could expect to see a new regulatory framework take shape by the end of the year. In calling for staff to rush to take action by the next Commission meeting in May, FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto has once again chosen to bypass due process and stakeholder input in favor of creating rash, poorly-informed policies.

“I have no qualms about saying that we are shutting down Florida to invasive species,” said Barreto at the FWC Commission meeting on February 21, 2023. The definition of “Invasive Species” was standardized by Executive Order 13112 signed by US President Bill Clinton on February 3, 1999. “Invasive Species” means an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. By that definition, very few of the nonnative species that have become established in Florida actually qualify as “Invasive Species.” Before implementing “Prohibited Species” rules in 2021, FWC failed to perform a scientific risk analysis to determine if Green iguanas or Tegu lizards even met the definition of “Invasive,” opting instead for a public relations campaign to demonize the lizards.

A Meeting of the FWC Nonnative Fish and Wildlife TAG was held 2-9-23, Photo by Daniel Parker

The pet industry is heavily regulated within Florida and has been for many decades. Florida has some of the most stringent permitting requirements of any state. Businesses that breed, import, or sell reptiles have to apply for import permits, submit inventories, and maintain receipts documenting sources of all animals, down to the smallest, most inoffensive lizard and tortoise. Strict caging requirements and animal welfare standards are enforced. Burmese pythons have been off limits to pet keepers for over a decade. Chairman Barreto's assertion that we have "open borders" on nonnative species displays not only his ignorance of his own agency's rules, but also prejudice and political opportunism.

Chairman Barreto has been in power at FWC for the better part of two decades. His apparent misunderstanding of the regulations that FWC has already implemented and the amount of data they possess on nonnative species being kept within the state is surprising, given the length of time he has been there. The discussions on “Invasive Species” by the Commissioners at the recent meeting displayed their ignorance on the species they were discussing. The agama lizard that they were treating as a "new problem" has been established in Florida for around a half a century and does not meet the definition of “Invasive.” Sadly, it appears that Chairman Barreto wants to use Florida's pet keepers and small businesses as a political punching bag. FWC has chosen to stir hysteria and ignore science when it has suited their purposes.

FWC’s internal documents have acknowledged that their regulations would hurt small business. The “Notice of Proposed Rule” for rule 68A-6.003, which was passed in May of 2022, said, “The Agency has determined that this will have an adverse impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory costs in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after the implementation of the rule.” According to reptile keepers, that rule does not give them the same due process and private property rights as other small businesses in Florida.

FWC's “Prohibited Species” rules have already damaged many small businesses and hurt families with cherished pets and companion animals. Many animals have been confiscated and needlessly euthanized by FWC. Moreover, these restrictive rules have done nothing to reduce the Burmese python population in the Everglades, Green iguanas in South Florida, or Tegu populations where they exist. In fact, just as animal industry experts predicted, all of these populations continue to grow under these regulations.

Baby Green Iguana from Broward County, FL- Photo by Daniel Parker

Green iguanas were first reported in Florida around 70 years ago. There is no conclusive evidence linking their introduction to the pet industry. In fact, many have speculated that they were transported on cargo ships bound for Florida from Latin America. These vegetarian lizards have established themselves throughout much of coastal South Florida, especially in heavily developed areas, but are very cold sensitive and unable to survive even subtropical winters further north in Florida.

Up until FWC passed “Prohibited Species” rules three years ago, collectors and small businesses were removing and exporting around one million live iguanas from Florida per year. Since FWC's ill-conceived rules were implemented, most of that wild collection and export has ceased, and the wild iguana population in South Florida has exploded. FWC's statements encouraging citizens to kill iguanas have led to numerous conflicts and injuries to people as well as animal abuse. Public backlash against the FWC iguana killing spree has led to iguanas being treated as a protected species in Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation biologist Jennifer Stern has told iguana collectors that they may not remove iguanas from parks or even sidewalks within the county.

Combined, Florida's reptile and tropical fish industries generate at least $500 million annually within Florida. These industries provide jobs for thousands of people. Fish keeper and member of the Florida Tropical Fish Farmers Association (FTFFA) Joe Hiduke said, "There is no practical way to evaluate all of the species of fish in the trade (let alone mollusks, crustaceans, reptiles, birds, etc). Hobbyists are terrified that we'll end up with a list of allowed species that only includes the most basic types that are traded in high volume. This essentially eliminates the hobby from the state that has been at the forefront of raising ornamental fish for decades.”

Florida’s reptile keepers believe that the actions of FWC have threatened their ability to continue to operate as small businesses. In 2022, President of the United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK Florida), Elizabeth Wisneski, wrote a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis asking him to protect the small businesses of reptile keepers. “Our businesses are threatened by regulations being imposed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Conservatively, the reptile industry in Florida generates at least $225 million annually, and we are an industry comprised entirely of small businesses,” said Wisneski. “We contribute significantly to the economy of the state and we rely on the incomes of our businesses to support our families and our employees.” She asked that Governor DeSantis, “stand up for our small businesses, as you have for other businesses in Florida.”

By continuing to ignore the input of Florida's farmers and small businesses in the creation of sensible regulations, Chairman Barreto and FWC are ensuring that the Commission's policies will continue to be not only unpopular, but ineffective. As an appointee of a Governor who is a defender of small business and against shut downs, Chairman Barreto's insistence on shut downs and policies that hurt small business is surprising. These poorly thought out policies are resulting in the deaths of many animals and are doing very little to actually address the issue of invasive species in a meaningful way.

A Change.org petition asking Governor Ron DeSantis to address stakeholder complaints and reign in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has received around 18,000 signatures. The petition has garnered widespread support from keepers of fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and invertebrates. See the petition here:

https://www.change.org/p/fwc-mandates-threaten-pet-owners-and-small-business-fl-animal-owners-ask-gov-to-intervene?redirect=false

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net. Media outlets are given permission by Daniel Parker to print the photos contained in this press release.

Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins to be discussed at FWC Meeting in Panama City

USARK FL — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins to be discussed at FWC Meeting in Panama City Today Nov 30.

Proposal for captive breeding supported by conservation groups and scientists

Above: Captive bred Diamondback Terrapins hatching (Photo by Ed Komara Jr.)

The Diamondback terrapin is a unique species of turtle that inhabits Florida’s salt marshes and mangrove swamps. Due to their beauty and personable nature, people all over the world like to keep terrapins as pets. The high demand for terrapins in Asia, especially China, has driven illegal wild collection to dangerous and potentially unsustainable levels. USARK FL (United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida) has proposed a program to FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) to allow the legal captive breeding of terrapins in Florida to supply the trade with captive bred animals, which it believes would discourage illegal collection of wild terrapins. That proposal may be seen here:

A Proposal for the Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins.pdf

The remarkable recovery of the American alligator through farming efforts has proven that captive breeding of reptiles can be effective in reducing poaching by supplying the market with captive-produced products. Brendan J. Moyle of Massey University documents this occurrence in Conservation that’s more than skin-deep: Alligator farming here:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257538487_Conservation_that's_more_than_skin-deep_Alligator_farming National Geographic reported that after the Colombian government permitted a captive breeding program of Poison dart frogs to supply the international pet trade, the price of the most highly-demanded species fell from $150 to $35, thus making it economically impractical for illegal traffickers to risk collecting and smuggling them. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/poison-dart-frogs-breeding-colombia-wildlife The BBC recently reported that scientists at the University of Durham in the UK have advocated for captive breeding and commercialization as a strategy to recover songbird populations which have been impacted by over collection for the Asian pet trade. https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-62918776#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16633863476153&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.com%2Fnews%2Fscience-environment-62918776 Dr. Whit Gibbons of University of Georgia and founder of Southeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (SE PARC) supports the captive breeding proposal for Diamondback terrapins. “The availability of captive-bred animals removes pressure on wild populations,” said Gibbons. He continues, “USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service) has given a positive statement about alligator snappers being raised in captivity.” Gibbons refers to a recent USFWS document proposing the Federal listing of the Alligator Snapping turtle, which states: “The service recognizes that turtle farming can alleviate harvest of wild stock and provides a means to serve international markets without affecting wild populations in the future.”

illegal activity such as animal trafficking.”

Threats to wild Diamondback terrapins include mortality from drowning in crab traps, habitat destruction, sea level rise, road mortality, predation, and poaching. Florida’s turtle breeders can help address at least one of those threats. USARK FL supports a program allowing for captive breeding of terrapins and the sale of captive bred offspring. The result would be the availability of a captive bred alternative to poached wild caught animals in the market.

The captive breeding of Diamondback terrapins will be discussed at today’s FWC Commission meeting on Nov 30, 2022. Concerned citizens may give public comments at the meeting.

The meeting can be viewed live starting at 8:30AM on Nov. 30 at:

Thefloridachannel.org

See this link for more information:

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/november-2022/

Below: Ornate diamondback terrapin in Hernando County, FL (Photo by Daniel Parker)

For additional photos or information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

USARK FL Supports the Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins

USARK FL — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 16:31:39 GMT

Above: Ornate diamondback terrapin in Hernando County, FL (Photos by Daniel Parker)

The Diamondback terrapin is a unique species of turtle that inhabits Florida’s salt marshes and mangrove swamps. Due to their beauty and personable nature, people all over the world like to keep terrapins as pets. The high demand for terrapins in Asia, especially China, has driven illegal wild collection to dangerous and potentially unsustainable levels. USARK FL (United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida) has proposed a program to FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) to allow the legal captive breeding of terrapins in Florida to supply the trade with captive bred animals, which it believes would discourage illegal collection of wild terrapins.

That proposal may be seen here:

A Proposal for the Captive Breeding of Diamondback Terrapins.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257538487_Conservation_that's_more_than_skin-deep_Alligator_farming

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/poison-dart-frogs-breeding-colombia-wildlife

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-62918776

Dr. Whit Gibbons of University of Georgia supports the captive breeding proposal for Diamondback terrapins. “The availability of captive-bred animals removes pressure on wild populations,” said Gibbons. He added, “USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service) has given a positive statement about alligator snappers being raised in captivity.” Gibbons refers to a recent USFWS document proposing the Federal listing of the Alligator Snapping turtle, which states: “The service recognizes that turtle farming can alleviate harvest of wild stock and provides a means to serve international markets without affecting wild populations in the future.”

The examples of other species of animals where captive breeding has been implemented as a solution to reduce pressure on wild populations are encouraging. Diamondback terrapins mature quickly and breed easily in captivity. They produce many offspring, ensuring that breeders would be able to impact markets fairly quickly.

“Florida’s turtle breeders are some of the best in the world and would have the ability to produce many thousands of captive bred terrapins within a few years if allowed to do so,” said USARK FL spokesperson Daniel Parker, who is also a conservation biologist and turtle breeder. “This program should be regulated to ensure that any turtles sold can be verified as captive bred offspring and that adult breeder animals are not replaced with wild caught animals,” added Parker.

Threats to wild Diamondback terrapins include habitat destruction, sea level rise, mortality from drowning in crab traps, road mortality, predation, and poaching. Florida’s turtle breeders can help address at least one of those threats. USARK FL supports a program allowing for captive breeding of terrapins and the sale of captive bred offspring. The result would be the availability of a captive bred alternative to poached wild caught animals in the market.

Portia Sapp, the Aquaculture Director for FDACS (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) said that her department is willing to administrate a terrapin breeding program, as they already do with other turtle farmers, so the program would not require FWC to incur additional administrative costs.

The captive breeding of Diamondback terrapins will be discussed at the next FWC Commission meeting on September 28, 2022. Concerned citizens may give public comments at the meeting or comment online.

See this link for more information:

https://myfwc.com/about/commission/commission-meetings/september-2022/

Below: Hatchling Ornate diamondback terrapin in Pasco County, FL (Photo by Daniel Parker)

Judge Grants Motion Allowing USARK FL to Argue that FWC Lacks Constitutional Authority to Regulate Captive Animals

USARK FL — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 22:45:00 GMT

Photo of Albino Green Iguana by Travis deLagerheim

A judge is allowing the United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) to argue that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) lacks the constitutional authority to regulate captive animals under the facts presented in case number 2021-CA-977 in Leon County Circuit Court. USARK FL is challenging FWC's "Prohibited Species" rules, which they say have been detrimental to pet keepers and small businesses dealing with species such as iguanas and tegus. USARK FL says that FWC's enforcement of these rules has led to the confiscation and euthanasia of animals, as well as reptile breeders moving out of the state as economic refugees. Judge John C. Cooper granted the motion requesting permission to add this claim at a hearing held August 15, 2022. USARK FL expects a written order to that effect to be entered soon.

An excerpt from the filing is included below:

"Since the filing of their original complaint, Plaintiffs have conducted substantial discovery and learned additional facts that require them to amend and clarify the claims and issues to be tried. Plaintiffs have learned additional information regarding the basis (or lack thereof) for Defendant Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (the “Commission”) promulgation of the challenged rules. Article IV, section 9 of the Florida Constitution grants to the Commission the “regulatory and executive powers of the state with respect to wild animal life.” Art. IV, § 9, Fla. Const. (emphasis added). It is on this basis that the Commission has promulgated the rules in question. The Florida Constitution does not define the term “wild animal life.” Through discovery, the Commission, via its agency representative, has taken the position that its jurisdiction over wild animal life extends to any species that is not domesticated. . . . Plaintiffs’ animals are commonly husbanded, multiple generations removed from the wild, often to yield “morphs” with attributes not found in the wild, but the Commission states these animals are subject to regulation regardless of actual impacts on animals in the wild. The risks that Defendants identify are purely speculative because they are not grounded in any known escapes. The purported risks are also misleading and overstated.

The Commission has even taken the position that it may shutter an entire industry on the basis of misleading and untested economic risks and human health and safety risks of Plaintiffs’ animals. . . . . But neither purported jurisdictional basis is mentioned in the Commission’s constitutional mandate. Consequently, Plaintiffs request leave to amend their complaint to add a new claim (Count III), which requests a declaratory judgment that the Commission lacks jurisdiction to promulgate the challenged rules on these facts."

The memorandum of law in support of the motion may be viewed at this link: Memorandum Of Law.pdf

The first amended initial complaint may be viewed at this link: First Amended Complaint.pdf

The full case docket as of August 16, 2022, may be viewed at this link: 2022.08.16 Docket Sheet 2021-CA-977.pdf

If you want to see the most up-to-date case docket, you can do so using the search function on the Leon County Circuit Court website; just input the case number (2021 CA 977): https://cvweb.leonclerk.com/public/online_services/search_courts/search_by_name.asp

Woman Rescues Gopher Tortoise Trapped in Collapsed Burrow

USARK FL — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Gopher Tortoise Rescued by Woman Who Now Fears Repercussions from FWC-PRESS RELEASE_7-23-22.pdf

Woman Rescues Gopher Tortoise Trapped in Collapsed Burrow, Fears Repercussions from FWC after Reporting

The Gopher tortoise is a Threatened Species at the forefront of the conflict between developers and advocates for Florida’s wildlife and environment-Photo by Daniel Parker

Auburndale—Information on a group of Threatened Gopher tortoises submitted months earlier to FWC could have prevented the collapsing of burrows by contractors, according to animal advocate Jordan Spring. Spring is concerned about the dismissive and even hostile response she got when she reported the tortoise emergency to FWC, the very agency funded by taxpayers to safeguard Florida’s Threatened and Endangered Wildlife. In fact, Spring says that an FWC officer and dispatcher not only dismissed the photos she had taken as evidence of the tortoises’ presence, but also accused her several times of trespassing. She fears repercussions from FWC after she reopened a collapsed burrow to free a trapped Gopher tortoise, though that burrow was on land she had permission to access.

Spring, who is a volunteer for United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL), was given permission by the previous landowner to access the 33 acre site, which was later sold to the real estate development company KB Home. She took photos and GPS points of the tortoise burrows there in June, before the property was sold, and submitted those records on the FWC website.

Spring has been in touch via phone and text with FWC biologist Kyle Brown, who she says has been very cordial. Brown sent Spring a survey map of the development site, which is known as “Hickory Ranch Subdivision.” This map was created by Bio-Tech Consulting Inc., a firm hired by the developer to record Gopher tortoise burrows and relocate the tortoises. Brown indicated to Spring that two Gopher tortoises had been removed from the site. However, Brown was unaware that some of the tortoise burrows found by Spring were different than the ones documented by Bio-Tech. Spring is concerned that the survey map did not include all of the tortoise burrows that she had documented. “I would like to know how my reports never made it on a sighting map on the website,” said Spring. “That could have prevented this,” she added. At least one of the burrows was in heavy brush and may have been missed by the survey. Spring added her own points to the survey map and sent that to Brown to show where she had seen the other burrows.

Gopher tortoise survey of “Hickory Ranch Subdivision by Bio-Tech Consulting Inc., to which Jordan Spring added her records of burrows as red dots

Ken Robertson, who owns land adjacent to the development site, said he observed the land being cleared by a crew with heavy equipment. Robertson says that he saw an excavator with jaws for grabbing trees and a front end loader with a bucket clearing the land. He also saw multiple pickup trucks and a crew installing silt fencing along the site.

Spring later discovered that workers had actually collapsed a Gopher tortoise burrow on Robertson’s property, near where the silt fence had been installed. She had documented the tortoise burrows on Robertson’s property back in April. “There was a tortoise that had a badly burnt shell from a very old burn,” said Robertson. He added, “We have lived here about 15 years. I’ve seen him since we moved in.” Robertson said that the previous owner of the property being developed lived there for over 50 years and said that there had never been a fire there in that time, so that tortoise must have been very old. “He would cross my front yard going to the neighbor’s front yard and then go back the same way he came,” said Robertson. “I haven’t seen him since all this started.”

Spring called Brown to convey her concern that burrows were being collapsed as workers cleared the land. Brown directed her to call FWC law enforcement. FWC Officer Jerod Gadd responded to Spring’s call. Spring sent Gadd photos of the burrows, but Gadd indicated to her that he saw no evidence that warranted him taking action. He warned her not to trespass on the land. Spring specifically asked Gadd to look for the tortoise burrow that was collapsed on Robertson’s land. Gadd indicated to Spring that he saw no evidence of a burrow there. “FWC law enforcement says we have no case, that there is not enough evidence that there was a tortoise burrow,” said Spring.

Jordan Spring dug this Gopher tortoise burrow out after it had been collapsed by contractors who crossed onto a neighboring lot while clearing land in Auburndale-Photo by Jordan Spring

Biologist Daniel Parker has years of experience surveying and researching Gopher tortoises through his work with Ashton Biodiversity Research and Preservation Institute, University of Central Florida, and DRMP. “Gopher tortoises may dig their burrows up to 40 feet long,” said Parker. He added, “When Gopher tortoise burrows are collapsed by heavy equipment, tortoises are often trapped and unable to escape; this is called entombment. When Gopher tortoises are entombed they usually don’t die immediately. They may take months to waste away before eventually dying. You do have a window of time to rescue the tortoises, if you can find the burrows.”

After Gadd left the scene, Spring grabbed a shovel and tried to find the collapsed Gopher tortoise burrow on Robertson’s land. Within five minutes she found the burrow and was able to dig to reopen the entrance, effectively freeing the Gopher tortoise trapped inside. With Robertson listening in, Spring called FWC dispatch back to tell them that she had found one of the burrows. The FWC dispatcher told her that Officer Gadd had left a note about her trespassing. Spring once again told them that she had permission to access Robertson’s land and had not trespassed. She asked the dispatcher if he would like to talk to Robertson. The dispatcher declined. Spring never received a call back from Gadd or any other FWC law enforcement officers after her second call to dispatch. At this time, Spring believes that there may still be gopher tortoises entombed on the site. Her main concern is for the welfare of the tortoises and that she is anxious to see them rescued.

Spring is concerned that surveyors missed this burrow that she photographed in heavy brush-Photo by Jordan Spring

The Gopher tortoise is a terrestrial (land-dwelling) species of turtle that feeds mostly on grasses, herbs, and other plants. It is known as a “Keystone Species,” because its burrows provide shelter for hundreds of other species of animals. The Gopher tortoise is listed as a Threatened Species in Florida and may not be harmed or moved without a permit, except for on agricultural or mining sites, which are exempt from the regulation. Some developers have been issued "Incidental Take" permits by FWC, which allow Gopher tortoises to be entombed. However, most developers are required to hire permitted consultants to collect Gopher tortoises before construction begins. Developers do sometimes skirt the law to save the cost of relocation, as the fine for killing tortoises is often less than the cost of moving them.

FWC received criticism in recent months for an order by Executive Director Eric Sutton which conservation groups say made it easier for developers to remove tortoises from construction sites. Developers in Florida, who have been experiencing a period of record profits, have complained that the process of surveying and removing tortoises is too expensive. Sutton’s executive order reduced the mitigation costs that developers were required to pay for impacting Threatened Gopher tortoises. The order also allowed Gopher tortoises to be collected and housed in temporary pens, called “short term relocation sites,” before being eventually moved again to other sites. Commercial collection of turtles is theoretically illegal in Florida, as FWC rules say that “no wild caught turtle may be sold.” However, FWC rules do allow consultant companies, which are hired by developers, to collect Gopher tortoises from development sites for a fee, and then transfer them to “recipient sites.” The owners of the “recipient sites” are paid to take the Gopher tortoises.

Reference the following articles for more background on Gopher tortoise issues in Florida:

FWC extends gopher tortoise order that conservationists say weakens protections | WUSF Public Media

https://www.wmfe.org/fwc-extends-gopher-tortoise-order-that-conservationists-say-weakens-protections/196874

Habitat loss forces FWC to temporarily relax gopher tortoise relocation guidelines – Fox13

https://www.fox13news.com/news/habitat-loss-forces-fwc-to-temporarily-relax-gopher-tortoise-relocation-guidelines#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16585472829137&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fox13news.com%2Fnews%2Fhabitat-loss-forces-fwc-to-temporarily-relax-gopher-tortoise-relocation-guidelines

Waiving rules for moving Florida gopher tortoises helps only developers - Florida Phoenix

https://floridaphoenix.com/2021/12/09/waiving-rules-for-moving-florida-gopher-tortoises-helps-only-developers/

Pulte Homes destroys 22 FL tortoise burrows, pays a paltry penalty - Florida Phoenix

https://floridaphoenix.com/2021/09/16/pulte-homes-destroys-22-fl-tortoise-burrows-pays-a-paltry-penalty/

For more information on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

Opposing More Regulations at FWC Commission Meeting

USARK FL — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Animal Keepers to Oppose More Regulations at FWC Commission Meeting in Jacksonville July 13-14

The Commissioners of FWC will meet July 13-14, 2022 in Jacksonville, FL. They will vote on the “Injuries and Escapes” Final Rule on July 13. This rule requires animal keepers to report injuries to themselves, thus requiring citizens to disclose their medical history to the government. Those injuries may also be considered violations. Animal keepers are concerned that the government requiring people to divulge private medical history is a violation of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which grants citizens the "Right to Privacy." This rule also requires keepers to report escapes, even for innocuous native Class III species. These escapes may be considered violations. Animal keepers are concerned that the government requiring people to report themselves for potential violations is a violation of the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) posted on its Facebook page, “Once again, FWC has gone through the motions of a process to appear to consider stakeholder input, but they have failed to actually take our concerns into account in the language of the final rule. They have not addressed the basic concerns that caused the Commissioners to delay to the vote on the original language of this rule back in December of 2021.”

Animal keepers are also concerned about the proceedings of the FWC “Technical Assistance Group” (TAG) meetings on Nonnative Species in which FWC staff have introduced the terms “Unrestricted List,” “Restricted List,” and “Not Allowed List” as part of a potential regulatory approach for nonnative species. Members of the group, who are appointed by FWC, have urged FWC to take a “guilty until proven innocent” approach in reference to allowing nonnative species to continue to be kept in captivity. The move towards discussion of only allowing certain species to be kept in captivity struck a nerve with animal keepers on the TAG, including fish and reptile keepers.

Joe Hiduke of Nautilus Wholesale, who represented tropical fish keepers on the group, said of the meeting, “It was fascinating being involved in two days of meetings regarding regulatory options that include a 'white list' or 'safe list', but using every conceivable name other than 'white list' or 'safe list'. The current description du jour is 'unrestricted list', a list of species that could be possessed and sold in Florida without restrictions. Which sounds like a good thing for industry until you consider what it takes to be on an unrestricted list, and what happens to the fish (and all other wildlife) that aren't able to go on an unrestricted list. Hint-prohibition is a type of restriction. One of our unsettled details is whether species that haven't been through a risk screening are considered safe until proven otherwise, or considered prohibited until proven safe.

These nonnative species issues are not on the agenda for this meeting, but animal keepers who are concerned with these issues may give comments on “Items not on the Agenda” on July 14.

The FWC Commission Meeting agenda and exact language of the “Injury and Escapes” rule may be found here:

https://myfwc.com/.../comm.../commission-meetings/july-2022/

FWC Commission Meeting July 13-14, 2022

Adam W. Herbert University Center

2000 Alumni Drive

Jacksonville, Florida, 32224

For more information and photos on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Daniel Parker at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

Petition Reaches 15,000!

USARK FL — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 12:00:00 GMT

Petition asking DeSantis to Reign in FWC Reaches 15,000

https://www.change.org/p/fwc-mandates-threaten-pet-owners-and-small-business-fl-animal-owners-ask-gov-to-intervene

A Change.org petition asking Governor Ron DeSantis to address stakeholder complaints and reign in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has received 15,000 signatures since it was posted by “Florida Animal Owners and Businesses.” The petition has garnered widespread support from keepers of fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and invertebrates. See the text of the petition below:

*IMPORTANT: Only sign this petition if you are a Florida resident.*

Governor DeSantis,
The failure of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to work with animal owners on rules that balance the interests of stakeholders with conservation needs has created a tragic situation leading to unjustifiable personal property seizures, euthanasia of animals, denial of licenses, and severe economic impacts to businesses, especially small businesses. Our industries and hobbies are being systematically eroded by an ideology to remove animals from our lives.

The adoption of unjust regulations in 2021 has already caused some business owners to flee the state as economic refugees. This year, FWC approved a package of harsh regulations that make it more difficult for animal owners to transfer their personal property, in addition to other implications posing serious constitutional questions. FWC staff is currently considering the creation of a biased “Safe List” that would be the most devastating blow to animal keepers yet. This would allow only a restricted list of species to be kept while banning all others. It would set a new standard for extreme government overreach in Florida.

We, the undersigned Florida residents, respectfully request that your office review these matters to address constituent complaints that have fallen on deaf ears when reported. If the review reveals any misconduct, we ask that a full investigation be performed by the Office of Inspector General or other appropriate entity. Furthermore, we appeal for the restructuring of FWC as an agency that genuinely collaborates with animal keepers and business owners.

Animal keepers remember a time when Staff, the Commissioners, and the stakeholders worked together on reasonable regulations for animal welfare, human safety, and conservation of natural resources. A recent policy shift has created a palpable divide between FWC and those who responsibly own and work with animals in Florida. FWC leadership no longer considers industry expertise in the creation of sound policy. There is a blatant disregard for the impact that destroying Florida’s unique animal industries will have on the State’s economic future.

The owners of reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, and mammals come together with one voice to ask you, Governor DeSantis, to please direct FWC to suspend its harsh mandates that threaten our livelihoods and the lives of our animals, and consider our input in the process of creating fair regulations.

Respectfully,
Florida Animal Owners and Businesses

*IMPORTANT: Only sign this petition if you are a Florida resident.

The petition was first publicly promoted by Calusa Herpetological Society President Elaine Davis at the society’s meeting on June 2. “The pet industry is huge in Florida and the FWC rules are making it harder and harder for both pet owners and breeders,” said Davis. She added, “As regulations get tighter, many people could potentially be left unable to legally keep the pets that they love.”

Fish keeper and member of the Florida Tropical Fish Farmers Association (FTFFA) Joe Hiduke said, "Florida residents are signing the petition because they are concerned about the future of the aquarium hobby. Having an aquarium or terrarium in a home or classroom is among the best ways to develop a bond with the natural world. The aquarium hobby includes thousands of species of fish, and the members of our hobby are very concerned that most of these will no longer be available. There is no practical way to evaluate all of the species of fish in the trade (let alone mollusks, crustaceans, reptiles, birds, etc). Hobbyists are terrified that we'll end up with a list of allowed species that only includes the most basic types that are traded in high volume. This essentially eliminates the hobby from the state that has been at the forefront of raising ornamental fish for decades.”

Steven Nekhaila, Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Florida, weighed in on FWC’s actions. “The FWC should not be making the rules on who can own what type of animal, especially broad stroke laws which essentially “whitelist” specific pets while banning all others. There needs to be specific consideration to diverse and unique industries which exotic pets support, which also preserve and protect those species from annihilation.” Nekhaila continues, “The release of animals into the ecosystem is certainly a concern, but by blaming all pet owners the FWC hurts those acting responsibly without actually addressing the problem.”

The petition has been widely shared on social media. On Facebook, Kenu Turk commented, “FWC has been giving way too much power without any checks and balances in place.” Turk adds, “They say they don’t have an agenda but everything they do moves further and further towards the agenda of no more exotic animal ownership or possession in this state. They flat out lie through their teeth.”

Daniel Hurd commented, “FWC justifies its budget by creating these new senseless rules and laws that make it appear they “care” about the environment and Florida’s native fauna. I’m not for defunding the police, but I am for defunding the FWC or even disbanding and replacing them with an organization more similar to the DNR other states have.”

Harmony Merz commented, “If you love your pet reptiles, birds, fish etc., you should be signing this petition. FWC is overstepping and trying to take away our rights to have our pets. There are several responsible Florida animal businesses and all of their employees that will lose their livelihoods. I am one of those employees. This will have a great economic impact on Florida.”

Sarah Greek commented, “I love FWC but they are going about it in the wrong way. We are signing to get help from our great governor to help save our rights to own our animals.”

The Commissioners of the FWC are appointed by the Governor. DeSantis appointed the three of the current sitting Commissioners, including Chairman Rodney Barreto. Though the position of FWC Commissioner is unpaid, an appointment to FWC is an honor often bestowed upon influential political donors. The FWC Commissioners vote to approve rules which are crafted and presented by FWC staff. These rules may have far-reaching consequences for the citizens that they regulate.

FWC’s internal documents acknowledge that their regulations will hurt small business. The “Notice of Proposed Rule” for rule 68A-6.003 said, “The Agency has determined that this will have an adverse impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory costs in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after the implementation of the rule.” According to reptile keepers, the proposed rule does not give them the same due process and private property rights as other small businesses in Florida.

Florida’s reptile keepers believe that the actions of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) threaten their ability to continue to operate as small businesses. The President of the United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK Florida), Elizabeth Wisneski, wrote a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis asking him to protect the small businesses of reptile keepers. “Our businesses are threatened by regulations being imposed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Conservatively, the reptile industry in Florida generates at least $225 million annually, and we are an industry comprised entirely of small businesses,” says Wisneski. “We contribute significantly to the economy of the state and we rely on the incomes of our businesses to support our families and our employees.” She asks that Governor DeSantis, “stand up for our small businesses, as you have for other businesses in Florida.”

In her letter to Governor DeSantis, Wisneski explains, “At a recent public hearing on these proposed rules, FWC staff was asked if a single violation could be the basis for the revocation of a captive wildlife license. Staff replied, ‘Yes.’ The idea of someone’s entire business being shut down over one violation, which could be something as innocuous as a paperwork error, is unprecedented in our great State.” At the FWC Commission meeting on May 3, 2022 in Gainesville, FWC Major Grant Burton confirmed that “a warning is a violation.”

She adds, “In December 2021, the FWC proposed a new package of harsh regulations that will make it more difficult for business owners to transfer their personal property, in some cases, preclude their ability to conduct business, require them to divulge private medical information, require them to self-report facts that could lead to criminal violations, and impose severe, punitive penalties. All of these implications pose, inter alia, serious constitutional questions,” said Wisneski.

Letter to Governor Ron DeSantis from USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski

For more information and photos on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Daniel Parker at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

‘Iguana Lady’ Speaks Out on Killing of Iguanas

USARK FL — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 19:16:09 GMT

‘Iguana Lady’ Jeanne Brodsky with several color variations of Green Iguana- Photo by Mike Stocker

This morning when I woke up, I sat down to drink my coffee and check my phone for messages. A Google news alert grabbed my attention. Channel 7 News Miami ‘We get a lot of Iguana calls.‘

It turns out that the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, including the SWAT team, has been sent out numerous times to respond to calls of sniper like activities.

To quote Channel 7 News, “Lt. Avery Figueras said emergency calls about people shooting at the big lizards, have created a big safety concern in the city, and not for the reptiles.“

I don’t want to be the type of person that throws in your face the statement, “I told you so,” but I told you so.

A couple of years ago, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) released statements to the media encouraging the public to kill the Common Green Iguana (Iguana iguana), because it was an "invasive species." After initial problems with that approach, they said, “This is not the Wild West,” and told people to "kill them humanely." However, they provided no instruction on what was considered humane.

FWC does not want to approach that subject, because there is no feasible way the public can humanely kill and exterminate the species. Many urban South Florida residents actually like the big lizards that seem to be peacefully coexisting with residents while, for the most part, not endangering native wildlife or landscapes.

FWC's goal was to get public interest and to create a hate mob towards this animal that has been documented to be established in South Florida since the 1950’s. FWC's other motivation for demonizing Common Green Iguanas was to stir up public support for banning this popular pet species in captivity.

The real issue here is that there is a competition for South Florida’s real estate, not just for people but for animals too. Look at the property values now compared to the 1950’s. It’s amazing that South Floridian people can still survive here. Very few native animals or plants survive in South Florida's urban landscape, but Iguanas have found a way.

In 2019, the Iguana ban passed and the killing continued. FWC did not allow a reasonable system for live Iguanas to continue to be caught out of the wild and exported out of the state as pets.

As Export Manager at Strictly Reptiles Inc., I sold and shipped farmed Iguanas. Less than 5% were sold to Florida destinations. I exported to countries around the world. This was a strong global market. FWC's Iguana Ban shut down that business.

FWC said, "We don't want to export our invasive problem to other states." This seems silly knowing that Iguanas are very cold sensitive and can't even survive the winters as far north as Central Florida, much less other states. Cold winters kill off many Iguanas in South Florida.

So, what has been accomplished by this ban/regulation?

Eradication of the wild Common Green Iguana has not worked. There are more Common Green Iguanas visible in urban areas than before the 2019 ban, and it is getting worse.

FWC shut down the business for the pet trade market. Pet trade dealers were banned and no longer allowed to buy and ship out of the state harvested or farm-raised live Common Green Iguanas. Licensed and Permitted dealers took a great revenue loss.

FWC created a new revenue gain market for companies and individuals to be hired to kill lizards. FWC shifted the focus from live animal business to the killing-of-animals business.

FWC promoted an action that led to animal cruelty. They directed the public to kill Common Green Iguanas which has led to numerous animal cruelty treatments.

FWC has created a safety hazard. The public, including children, are at risk while the “Wild West” hunters with their rifles and archery sets walk around neighborhoods and city environments.

There is a solution that is simple and will work:

Call off the dogs. Stop promoting the killing of the Common Green Iguana to the public. Tell them to stop killing animals. Let the pest removal companies deal with that.

Allow Pet Trade companies to buy and sell Common Green Iguanas. Allow licensed/permitted pet businesses with Class III licenses to buy wild harvested and farm-produced Iguanas, for the purpose of exporting out of the state of Florida.

Allow the public to harvest live Common Green Iguanas. Let the public gain financial profit by doing something nice: harvesting live instead of killing.

All this sends a much nicer statement to the world, that Florida is a beautiful state of tropical birds, flora, and fauna. We all want to protect it and love it.

Thank you for your time and compassion.

Sincerely,

Jeanne Brodsky

Jeanne Brodsky is a longtime South Florida resident with over 40 years’ experience in the pet business. She was an export manager and office manager for Strictly Reptiles Inc. in Hollywood for 32 years. Before that, she worked in sales for seven years at Pet Farm Inc. in Miami. She now works closely with Howard Fluker, the world-renowned breeder of Blue Diamond Iguanas. She was one of the largest marketer's of domestic and export sales of captive-produced iguanas from Iguana Farm-El Salvador before FWC made the Green Iguana a "Prohibited Species" in Florida.

Petition asking DeSantis to Reign in FWC Reaches 12,000 Signatures

USARK FL — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:30:00 GMT

Petition asking DeSantis to Reign in FWC Reaches 12,000 Signatures

https://www.change.org/p/fwc-mandates-threaten-pet-owners-and-small-business-fl-animal-owners-ask-gov-to-intervene?redirect=false

A Change.org petition asking Governor Ron DeSantis to address stakeholder complaints and reign in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has received 12,000 signatures since it was posted two weeks ago by “Florida Animal Owners and Businesses.” The petition has garnered widespread support from keepers of fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, and invertebrates. See the text of the petition below:

*IMPORTANT: Only sign this petition if you are a Florida resident.*

Respectfully,
Florida Animal Owners and Businesses

*IMPORTANT: Only sign this petition if you are a Florida resident.

Sarah Greek commented, “I love FWC but they are going about it in the wrong way. We are signing to get help from our great governor to help save our rights to own our animals.”

Letter to Governor Ron DeSantis from USARK FL President Elizabeth Wisneski

At the May FWC meeting, animal keepers joined a crowd of dissatisfied stakeholders who condemned FWC’s management of species and habitats. These citizens included advocates for the gopher tortoise, a species which theoretically receives protection in Florida, but continues to be “entombed” in collapsed burrows to die a slow death at the hands of developers, as well as agricultural and mining operations. Advocates for manatees, which have experienced unprecedented death rates in the past few years due to starvation and poisoning by herbicides, say that FWC’s herbicide spraying program has eliminated the manatees’ food sources as well as increased pollution flowing into waterways and estuaries. Anglers also condemn the herbicide program, saying that they observe fish kills after waters are sprayed by FWC contractors. Drone footage posted by YouTubers shows FWC contractors appearing to intentionally spray wildlife, including Endangered Snail kites and American alligators, with herbicide.

For more information and photos on this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Daniel Parker at 863-441-5067 or email media@usarkfl.net.

We Dont want this Blanket Ban

Christina Williams — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 21:21:26 GMT

We don't want this Blanket ban

It's Not the right thing to do & will make the Bad people do more like smuggle and sell and other bad stuff

SAY NO TO THE BLANKET BAN

Please

FWC Hearing

USARK FL — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Do you have a license to keep reptiles? The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking to regulate reptile businesses beyond the scope of their constitutional authority. In effect, you will not have the same due process and private property rights as other small businesses in Florida. Speak your mind to FWC at the public hearing for rule 68A-6.003 on April 11th, 2022.

FWC Hearing on rule 68A-6.003

Monday, April 11, 2022

10:00am-5:00pm

Hilton UF Conference Center

1714 SW 34th St

Gainesville, FL 32607

You must arrive by 10:00am to sign up to speak. Even if you do not plan to speak, your presence and that of anyone you are able to bring will be important. Please bring your family and friends. This hearing could mark a turning point in our struggle to continue to keep reptiles and other animals in Florida. We know it is on a Monday. It is worth clearing your calendar to attend.

Background

FWC appears to have recently ramped up the denial and revocation of captive wildlife licenses. Their actions seem to demonstrate a strategy of denying licenses based on paperwork errors and other technical violations not related to the actual care or well-being of animals.

While FWC maintains that they do not anticipate a dramatic increase in revocations, they do admit that the number would increase, even if "violations" were for only paperwork or other trivial matters. It is difficult to deny that the addition of pages of new captive wildlife regulations in recent years will produce an increase in violations due to the difficulty of complying with these complex rules. FWC says that they anticipate a cost savings for the agency because they won’t have to inspect facilities that have had their permits revoked.

What does FWC rule 68A-6.003 do?

This rule deprives small business owners involved in the keeping of reptiles and other animals of due process rights and private property rights.

It makes it easier for FWC to revoke or deny licenses and confiscate animals.

It punishes associates of reptile keepers for violations committed by other people.

Under this rule, a business owner’s license could be revoked because of a violation by an employee.

A family member’s freedom to keep animals may be infringed because of a violation by another family member. This is like everyone in a household losing their driver’s licenses because one member of the family had his license suspended.

The history and text of the rule may be found at this link:

https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ruleno.asp?id=68A-6.003

FWC Commission Meeting March 2nd & 3rd

USARK FL — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 13:00:00 GMT

This Wednesday, March 2nd and Thursday, March 3rd will be the next FWC commission meeting at the Tampa Convention Center, Ballroom D, 333 S. Franklin Street, Tampa 33602.

USARK FL would like to encourage everyone to attend this event and invite your friends.

On Wednesday, staff will be proposing rules relating to nonnative species and on Thursday everyone will have an opportunity to speak on items not on the agenda. If you can not attend both days, we recommend you attend Thursday for "items not on the agenda".

Why is it important? This is YOUR opportunity to voice your concerns directly to the commissioners. Although staff makes recommendations for proposed rules to the commissioners, the commissioners have to vote and pass ALL proposed rules. If you don't share your concerns they will never know.

There is power in numbers! Let's show this commission how powerful we are!

AUCTION! Repticon Tampa

USARK FL — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Come out and support USARK Florida and have a great time!

LACEY ACT!! - WE NEED YOUR HELP!

USARK FL — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 16:43:26 GMT

Lacey-handout fl.pdf

Please see this attached file and get the information out!

Yellow Anaconda Case Mediation

USARK FL — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 15:00:00 GMT

The judge in the yellow anaconda case has ordered the parties to mediate the case. That mediation will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, January 18, 2021, starting at 10:00 a.m. ET, and all plaintiffs must attend. The Zoom link has been sent out to those plaintiffs. On the Zoom you’ll have representatives from Holland & Knight, USARK Florida President Elizabeth Wisneski, the mediator and other FWC’s representatives.

New T-Shirt Design Winner!!

USARK FL — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 17:00:00 GMT

USARK FL T-Shirt Design Contest!

USARK FL — Sat, 02 Oct 2021 16:51:14 GMT

Earn cash prizes and help USARK FL design their next t-shirt!

Lawsuit Update from USARK FL Board

USARK FL — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 01:26:12 GMT

Judge Cooper held a hearing today regarding the motion for injunctive relief filed by USARK FL and our plaintiffs. This hearing only concerned our request for an injunction. This means no ruling was made on the merits of our case and that hearing will be held later.

The hearing was scheduled to last only two hours as Judge Cooper graciously made time to hear this before the enforcement date of July 29, 2021, even though he already had a packed caseload and schedule. It did last beyond that time, beginning at 9:30 and not ending until nearly 2:30 (inclusive of 70 minutes of break time).

For a longer hearing, we would have been required to wait until well after the July 29 date which makes winning an injunction nearly impossible. Meeting the bar to receive injunctive relief is high enough when heard before any enforcement date, and many argue that winning an injunction requires a higher bar than winning a case on the merits.

USARK FL and the plaintiffs were awarded injunctive relief but with a limited scope. While we argued for all of our members and responsible stakeholders, Judge Cooper awarded injunctive relief to the listed plaintiffs that hold permits (Class III and/or Conditional Species Permits) that expire after the enforcement date. Essentially, named plaintiffs will have until the expiration of their licenses before FWC can enforce the new rules.

Please understand that USARK FL will always fight for all responsible herpetoculturists. We do not dictate how any court or judge may rule. This is how Judge Cooper ruled. We should have the filing explaining the terms of the injunction next week. Judge Cooper did make his oral ruling from the bench but we still must wait for the formal document.

We appreciate everyone who has supported us and made this fight possible. USARK FL and Florida herpetoculture absolutely could not have better attorneys working on this case than our team from Holland & Knight. It seems this fight with FWC may just be the beginning as we already know that FWC is preparing to list and either heavily regulate or prohibit more reptile species. We cannot overstate the crucial importance of USARK FL as an organized industry advocacy group moving forward. Without an organized front, the entirety of herpetoculture would be eliminated from Florida very soon.

USARK FL and Plaintiffs Sue FWC

USARK FL — Fri, 28 May 2021 18:42:45 GMT

USARK FL and Florida Business Owners Sue Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Over Due Process Violations

Today (May 28, 2021), the United States Association of Reptile Keepers, Florida (USARK FL), along with several Florida business owners, filed a lawsuit in state court challenging the adoption of new rules by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) that ban the ownership and commercial breeding of 16 reptile species, with extremely narrow and temporary exemptions for only tegus and green iguanas, notwithstanding the success of the prior regulations which had authorized that conduct for more than a decade.

The lawsuit contends that FWC did not follow its own due process procedures when banning the commercial pet trade of these reptiles. Specifically, FWC “failed to afford Plaintiffs [a] requested draw-out proceeding”—an administrative hearing “specifically designed to ensure credible, scientific data supports [FWC’s] classification of species; failed to prepare a statement of estimated regulatory costs that complies with [FWC’s] own due process procedures; [and] failed to consider and adopt less costly regulatory alternatives that would accomplish [FWC’s] objectives” without destroying an entire industry, among other failures.

Currently, the reptile industry in Florida generates approximately $160 million in revenue to the state. These new rules will force hundreds of Florida reptile businesses to either shutter their doors or leave the state, and in some instances require individuals to give up animals they have raised from birth and consider as pets.

Phil Goss, President of the national USARK organization, said, “Common sense walked off a cliff with this latest action by FWC. It has been proven for over a decade that the Conditional Species program, not the Prohibited listing, does in fact ‘close the barn door’ for species listed as Conditional. However, this Prohibited Species proposal is uncharted territory for species commonly found in trade and has a much greater chance of creating problems, including a new black market and planned releases, rather than stopping them.”

“Many of our members came to Florida because of the business-friendly environment the Governor and legislative leaders have cultivated,” stated Elizabeth Wisneski, President of USARK FL. “These new rules by the FWC, which eliminated a successful and highly-regulated permit program for these reptiles and implemented an outright ban, will have devastating consequences for small mom-and-pop businesses in our industry, at a time when we are just getting back on our feet.”

Two plaintiffs, Michelle Watts and John McHugh, said, “We relocated to Florida just last year and came into compliance with the restrictive FWC regulations. Now we are forced to move again, as we will not surrender or euthanize our animals. These animals are both our lives and our business, and now FWC has forced our family to suffer extreme emotional and financial duress without any attempt to discuss or consider the effects of the new rules on us.”

USARK FL Government Affairs Director Eugene Bessette remembers far different times in Florida. “All we asked for was a fair shake and we did not get it. I have owned a reptile business for over 40 years in Florida. FWC historically collaborated with us responsible businesses but those days are gone. Rather than the teamwork that once existed to allow sensible dialogue, we now have a shift to unreasonable rules and an unwillingness to consider those affected. As disappointed as we are, it must be clear that we are not against regulation but we do oppose government overreach We will always offer our expertise to collaborate with FWC to do what is best for Florida and our environment.”

A copy of the complaint is available HERE.

A copy of the motion for temporary injunction is available HERE.

What can you do?

Currently, we need donations! This lawsuit will be expensive and we have retained one of Florida's top law firms, Holland & Knight, who prevailed on our lawsuit in 2020 to repeal the legislation that passed as Senate Bill 1414. We could not have a better firm and team representing us!

How to donate:

1. via our website at USARK FL - Donate

2. mail checks made out to USARK FL to:

USARK FL

4525 S Florida Ave. #22

Lakeland, FL 33813

USARK FL Fundraising Sweepstakes: Win a $12,000 Pair of Rare Captive Born Mountain Forest Boelen's Pythons with Custom Enclosures!

USARK FL — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 20:45:39 GMT

Enter Today and you could win a captive born pair of Boelen's Pythons each with a complete custom Enclosure!

You've got a chance to win a pair of well started, Indonesian captive born Mountain Forest Boelen’s Python hatchlings with two custom C Serpents enclosures to keep them in and a Zoo Med Environmental Control Center, ReptiTemp Digital Infrared Thermometer, ReptiFogger, Forest Floor Bedding, 2 ReptiRock Corner Water Dish and 2 large Spider Woods.

The Boelen's Python has long been considered the Holy Grail of snake keeping in the United States and around the world. These snakes start out a rich maroon color and go through a ontogenetic color change, maturing into a black and white/yellow snake. Boelen's Pythons tend to be fairly easy going and easy to work with and handle. They are rarely seen in private collections.

Proceeds go to USARK FLORIDA to fight for reptile owners rights.

ALERT: Lacey Act Amendment 2021

USARK FL — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 20:42:16 GMT

From USARK National:

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Florida) has introduced Senate Bill 626 (S626). This is a bill that would reverse the USARK federal lawsuit victory by reinstating the ban on interstate transportation of species listed as injurious under the Lacey Act. The bill would also create a “white list” (see #2 below). This goes far beyond large constrictor snakes. This will trickle down to hundreds or thousands of common pet species. Also note this does not pertain only to non-native species. FWS has already listed U.S. native species of salamanders as injurious.

Briefly, S626 will:

Provide that the Lacey Act bans the interstate transport of species listed as injurious. Specifically, it replaces Lacey’s current language ‘‘shipment between the continental United States’’ with ‘‘transport between the States”;
Create a “white list” of species that can be imported. This means that any animal (reptile, amphibian, fish, bird, mammal, invertebrate) that is not on the white list is by default treated as an injurious species and is banned from importation.
Create a new authority allowing FWS to use an “emergency designation” that becomes effective immediately after being published in the Federal Register unless an extension of no more than 60 days is allowed. That means no due process, public input, hearings, advanced notice, etc. for injurious listings;
Permit FWS to not allow importation if a species has not been imported in “minimal quantities” (to be defined) in the year prior to the enactment of this Act.
The effective date would be one year after the enactment of this Act.

Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) is a co-sponsor. S626 has been assigned to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Read the S626 text at https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021-S626-Lacey-Act.pdf.

We will provide more details on actions to take.

In our landmark court decision, four federal judges agreed that USARK was correct and that the Lacey Act (Title 18 Section 42 of the U.S. Code) did not ban interstate transportation of injurious species based on the original language of the Lacey Act and the intent of Congress. As a result of this fight for our members and the herpetocultural community, this meant animals domestically bred under human care could be moved and sold across state lines (within the continental United States). For herpetoculturists’ concerns, this included some species of constrictor snakes and 201 species of salamanders.