Career Profile Job Title: Executive Director, Co-Founder Name: Michael Starkey Employer: Save The Snakes What does a typical work day look like for you? Save The Snakes does not have a physical office, so I have the great fortune to work from home. Not having a physical office space also allows me great … [Read more...]
No Animals, No Problem! Engaging urban and suburban youth in Animal Science projects
Last month we shared information about curriculum and resources available to lead urban livestock projects in urban and suburban areas. One reader came back to us with a great question: "If we don’t have bees, rabbits or chickens, can our youth still get involved with animal projects?" The answer is yes! If your family or club cannot commit to raising your own animals, there … [Read more...]
Poisonous vs. Venomous – What’s the difference?
One of the most common questions asked to herp aficionados is, “Is that snake poisonous?” This is also one of the more frustrating questions, and the terminology “poisonous snake” is used all the time. With a few exceptions, the answer is emphatically NO. BUT – there are a number of venomous snakes! So, what’s the difference? VENOMOUS: It injects toxins … [Read more...]
How to be a Herpetologist
If you don’t mind the idea that you will get bitten, scratched, and defecated on by almost every type of reptile and amphibian…then you can learn how to become a herpetologist! Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians, but many people asking “how” to become a herpetologist really mean, “How can I be involved in working with reptiles and amphibians,” rather … [Read more...]
I’m Pining for the NJ Pine Barrens
The Garden State is known for corn, tomatoes and blueberries. New Jersey is the “Diner Capital of the World” and home of the famous Taylor Ham vs Pork Roll debate as well as the Jersey Shore. But, did you know that Southern New Jersey is home to a special habitat called the Pine Barrens? The Pine Barrens are so named because of the sandy soil. European settlers found it was … [Read more...]
Let’s meet Sara…an Evolutionary Biologist who loves Herpetology!
Dr. Sara Ruane B.S. (Bachelor of Science) in Biology; M.S. (Master of Science) in Biology; Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) in Biology: Ecology, Evolution, Behavior Assistant Professor, Herpetology and Evolutionary Biology Rutgers University-Newark email address: sara.ruane@rutgers.edu News from Dr. Ruane's Lab What does a typical work day look like for … [Read more...]
New Snake Species Hiding in Plain Sight
Samuel McDowell, the late herpetologist and professor at Rutgers-Newark, spent a good part of his life studying ground snakes in New Guinea. Forty years later, Sara Ruane – who joined the Department of Biological Sciences faculty last semester – was able to find evidence that the snakes McDowell studied were, in fact, a new species of reptiles that have been hiding in plain … [Read more...]
Be an educated consumer when visiting reptile shows
Reptile Shows!!! How cool would it be to go see lots of different reptiles and amphibians in one location? Talk with breeders? Interact with other reptile enthusiasts? With the many shows in the area, you can do just that. But, as a herpetological enthusiast and potential owner, you should be responsible in your visits and potential purchases. Here is what you should know … [Read more...]
Permit Me to Tell You About Permits!
So, you are now the proud owner of a reptile or amphibian. Congratulations! Did you know that in New Jersey you need to file an application for a permit to possess exotic or nongame animals for hobby purposes? There is a nominal fee, and you can put all your animals on one, easy to fill out, permit. Permits are due January 31 for animals you already own. As you acquire new … [Read more...]