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.
The Marbled salamander is a beautiful member of the Mole salamander family that occurs through much of northern Florida in moist wooded areas. It spends the vast majority of its life underground. It is mainly seen when it emerges during fall rains to breed.
Unlike most amphibians, female Marbled salamanders lay their eggs in shallow depressions on land. They rely on these areas being flooded by fall or winter rains so the the eggs may hatch and larvae may develop. Because these special conditions are required, these salamanders may not be able to successfully reproduce some years. This may be a factor limiting their range in Florida. Populations rely on the fairly long lifespan of the adults, which may be five to ten years. Individuals may live longer in human care.
Though it is secretive and may not be frequently seen, the Marbled salamander makes a beautiful and satisfying terrarium animal that may thrive for years if kept on a deep, moist substrate and fed small earthworms, crickets, and a variety of other soft invertebrates. Typical indoor temperatures in the upper 60's to low 80's work well for this species. Care must be taken to make sure that they do not get too hot or dry.
Do you keep Reef geckos? We want to hear from you!
FWC is considering State Listing of the Florida Reef gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus). We have been in discussions with FWC leadership and staff on allowances for continued captive ownership and breeding. We are looking to coordinate with keepers who work with Reef geckos, not limited to the Florida subspecies (which may be difficult to distinguish from the others). We ask Reef gecko keepers to please email Daniel Parker at media@usarkfl net to coordinate. Thanks so much!
Photo of Florida Reef gecko by Jake Scott
USARK FL Position on Protected Species, Listed Species and Candidate Species
Possession, breeding, and sale of state-listed species (that are not Federally-listed) state-protected species (including non-listed species that have possession limits) should be allowed with proof of legal origin. If animals are purchased from out of state 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.
As is the case in the proposed state listing of the reef gecko and dusky salamander, habitat destruction and degradation are the primary threats to most herp species within Florida. Limiting possession and captive breeding is counterproductive to the continued survival of those species.
Albinos and color morphs of all species should be legal without restriction. This is already the case in Florida for red-eared sliders and Florida pine snakes. There are exceptions for albinos in state regulations for Indiana, California, New Jersey, and South Carolina.
🐸 Overview The Chacoan Horned Frog is one of the most popular pet frogs. It is known for its wide mouth and ambush-style feeding. It is available in several color variations, including the albino morph pictured here.
🏠 Housing & Care • Minimum 10-gallon tank (20-gallon long preferred for adults) • Warm, humid setup with moist (not soaked) substrate • Best substrates: coconut fiber or untreated topsoil • Gravel or bark may cause impaction • Provide hiding spots and a shallow water dish • Temps: 75–85°F • Use dechlorinated water • Never house with other frogs—they will eat tankmates
🍽 Feeding • Feed juveniles every 1–2 days; adults every 4–7 days • Food may include gut-loaded crickets, roaches, earthworms, and occasional fish or pinky mice • Avoid wild-caught prey and feeder fish from stores
🐣 Breeding • Breeding is challenging and requires careful conditioning • Frogs must be cycled through a cool, dry dormancy period (2–4 months) • After warming and heavy misting, pairs are introduced into a shallow aquatic breeding setup • Eggs are typically laid within a few days • Hormones are often used in captive breeding to ensure consistency and safety and are widely accepted when husbandry is correct
✅ Why Captive Breeding Matters • Supports the pet trade responsibly • Reduces wild collection • Helps maintain stable availability and pricing
Pac-Man frogs are fascinating, low-activity ambush predators—but proper care is essential for long-term health and success.
Photo of Albino Chacoan Horned frog by Daniel Parker
Radiated tortoises are native to Madagascar. They are beautiful and highly personable animals that also breed very easily in human care. There are many Radiated tortoise breeders in the US, especially in warm states like Florida.
However, recent interpretation of ESA (Endangered Species Act) regulations by USFWS staff have made permits for state to state transport or export out of the country nearly impossible to get.
In the meantime, wild Radiated tortoise populations, which were relatively stable until the last couple of decades, have undergone a sharp decline in the wild. The tortoises, which are considered sacred by the native people of Madagascar, have faced increased consumption as food by migrants from mainland Africa. Increased habitat destruction and poaching for the Asian trade also threatens this species. The high value of the animals in the Asian turtle trade has led to a spike in poaching and smuggling.
In general, CITES (Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species) and ESA regulations that limit or ban commerce in captive bred animals have been counterproductive to conservation efforts. High demand puts pressure on wild populations when there is not an adequate supply of captive bred animals. Regulations that place road blocks in the way of captive breeding, transport, and commerce in captive bred animals may focus demand on wild populations. Poaching may increase, especially in parts of the world where enforcement is lacking.
Breeders in the US, who could be producing more of these endangered tortoises, have limited options to disperse their progeny. Instead of buying healthy and ethically-produced captive animals from US breeders, the Asian trade has turned to black market sources. When adult tortoises are removed from wild populations, the results can be catastrophic for the species.
CITES and ESA listing of Radiated tortoises, which has had little measurable benefit for wild populations, has had the effect of limiting captive propagation to secure the global population.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of renowned artist and reptile enthusiast Tell Hicks. Hicks was an inspiration to many who knew him and enjoyed his art. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Eileen and his entire family.
He was a founding member of the International Herpetological Society and became its President in 2009.
Winter CrocFest 2025 is this Saturday, December 13th, at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. They are raising funds this time for Indian Gharial (Jeff Lang, PhD) and Gharial in Nepal (Phoebe Griffith, PhD).
CrocFest remains an entirely volunteer organization. Over the last 15 years, with your help they have raised over $1M for in situ crocodilian conservation projects around the world.
Thank you for your past support of CrocFest!
St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is located at 999 Anastasia Blvd, St Augustine, FL 32080.
Event times are 12 Noon to 9 pm EST. Food will be served at 4 pm and Live Auction will begin at 6 pm.
Great to see everyone at Orlando Repticon this weekend! Thanks so much to our awesome volunteers Nick, Kayla, and Stefanie of NKS Reptiles and Jordan and Chris of Green Swamp Exotics, who brought their beautiful Rhino Iguana, Pearl, for everyone to see at the USARK FL table.
Photo by Lisa Parker
Please join USARK FL by going to our website www.usarkfl.net to help protect your freedoms to keep reptiles.
The Florida chicken turtle (Deirochelys reticularia chrysea) is one of the most interesting native Florida turtles. It nests mainly in the winter time. The eggs likely undergo diapause, which means that the embryos don't actually start to develop until they are exposed to warmer spring temperatures.
Chicken turtles primarily inhabit ephemeral (temporary) wetlands. They may wander from pond to pond to find the type of shallow water habitat they prefer. They feed on crayfish and dragonfly larvae as well as other arthropods, amphibians, and fish. Chicken turtles have long necks that enable them to strike prey at a surprising distance. In dry times, Chicken turtles may burrow in the ground to estivate.
Photo of Florida chicken turtle from Levy County, FL by Daniel Parker
USARK Florida
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.
See article on our website here:
usarkfl.wildapricot.org/news/13588373
Photo of Motley Corn snake by Daniel Parker
#reptiles #savefloridaspets #oneteamonefight #fwc #florida
2 days ago | [YT] | 28
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USARK Florida
The Marbled salamander is a beautiful member of the Mole salamander family that occurs through much of northern Florida in moist wooded areas. It spends the vast majority of its life underground. It is mainly seen when it emerges during fall rains to breed.
Unlike most amphibians, female Marbled salamanders lay their eggs in shallow depressions on land. They rely on these areas being flooded by fall or winter rains so the the eggs may hatch and larvae may develop. Because these special conditions are required, these salamanders may not be able to successfully reproduce some years. This may be a factor limiting their range in Florida. Populations rely on the fairly long lifespan of the adults, which may be five to ten years. Individuals may live longer in human care.
Though it is secretive and may not be frequently seen, the Marbled salamander makes a beautiful and satisfying terrarium animal that may thrive for years if kept on a deep, moist substrate and fed small earthworms, crickets, and a variety of other soft invertebrates. Typical indoor temperatures in the upper 60's to low 80's work well for this species. Care must be taken to make sure that they do not get too hot or dry.
3 days ago | [YT] | 10
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
Do you keep Reef geckos?
We want to hear from you!
FWC is considering State Listing of the Florida Reef gecko (Sphaerodactylus notatus notatus). We have been in discussions with FWC leadership and staff on allowances for continued captive ownership and breeding. We are looking to coordinate with keepers who work with Reef geckos, not limited to the Florida subspecies (which may be difficult to distinguish from the others). We ask Reef gecko keepers to please email Daniel Parker at media@usarkfl net to coordinate. Thanks so much!
Photo of Florida Reef gecko by Jake Scott
USARK FL Position on Protected Species, Listed Species and Candidate Species
Possession, breeding, and sale of state-listed species (that are not Federally-listed) state-protected species (including non-listed species that have possession limits) should be allowed with proof of legal origin. If animals are purchased from out of state 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.
As is the case in the proposed state listing of the reef gecko and dusky salamander, habitat destruction and degradation are the primary threats to most herp species within Florida. Limiting possession and captive breeding is counterproductive to the continued survival of those species.
Albinos and color morphs of all species should be legal without restriction. This is already the case in Florida for red-eared sliders and Florida pine snakes. There are exceptions for albinos in state regulations for Indiana, California, New Jersey, and South Carolina.
4 weeks ago | [YT] | 21
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
Chacoan Horned Frog (Ceratophrys cranwelli)
“Pac-Man Frog”
🐸 Overview
The Chacoan Horned Frog is one of the most popular pet frogs. It is known for its wide mouth and ambush-style feeding. It is available in several color variations, including the albino morph pictured here.
🏠 Housing & Care
• Minimum 10-gallon tank (20-gallon long preferred for adults)
• Warm, humid setup with moist (not soaked) substrate
• Best substrates: coconut fiber or untreated topsoil
• Gravel or bark may cause impaction
• Provide hiding spots and a shallow water dish
• Temps: 75–85°F
• Use dechlorinated water
• Never house with other frogs—they will eat tankmates
🍽 Feeding
• Feed juveniles every 1–2 days; adults every 4–7 days
• Food may include gut-loaded crickets, roaches, earthworms, and occasional fish or pinky mice
• Avoid wild-caught prey and feeder fish from stores
🐣 Breeding
• Breeding is challenging and requires careful conditioning
• Frogs must be cycled through a cool, dry dormancy period (2–4 months)
• After warming and heavy misting, pairs are introduced into a shallow aquatic breeding setup
• Eggs are typically laid within a few days
• Hormones are often used in captive breeding to ensure consistency and safety and are widely accepted when husbandry is correct
✅ Why Captive Breeding Matters
• Supports the pet trade responsibly
• Reduces wild collection
• Helps maintain stable availability and pricing
Pac-Man frogs are fascinating, low-activity ambush predators—but proper care is essential for long-term health and success.
Photo of Albino Chacoan Horned frog by Daniel Parker
1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 13
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
Radiated tortoises are native to Madagascar. They are beautiful and highly personable animals that also breed very easily in human care. There are many Radiated tortoise breeders in the US, especially in warm states like Florida.
However, recent interpretation of ESA (Endangered Species Act) regulations by USFWS staff have made permits for state to state transport or export out of the country nearly impossible to get.
In the meantime, wild Radiated tortoise populations, which were relatively stable until the last couple of decades, have undergone a sharp decline in the wild. The tortoises, which are considered sacred by the native people of Madagascar, have faced increased consumption as food by migrants from mainland Africa. Increased habitat destruction and poaching for the Asian trade also threatens this species. The high value of the animals in the Asian turtle trade has led to a spike in poaching and smuggling.
In general, CITES (Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species) and ESA regulations that limit or ban commerce in captive bred animals have been counterproductive to conservation efforts. High demand puts pressure on wild populations when there is not an adequate supply of captive bred animals. Regulations that place road blocks in the way of captive breeding, transport, and commerce in captive bred animals may focus demand on wild populations. Poaching may increase, especially in parts of the world where enforcement is lacking.
Breeders in the US, who could be producing more of these endangered tortoises, have limited options to disperse their progeny. Instead of buying healthy and ethically-produced captive animals from US breeders, the Asian trade has turned to black market sources. When adult tortoises are removed from wild populations, the results can be catastrophic for the species.
CITES and ESA listing of Radiated tortoises, which has had little measurable benefit for wild populations, has had the effect of limiting captive propagation to secure the global population.
Photo by Daniel Parker
#radiatedtortoise #tortoisesofinstagram
#conservation #reptilesandamphibians #turtlesofinstagram
1 month ago | [YT] | 20
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
We are saddened to learn of the passing of renowned artist and reptile enthusiast Tell Hicks. Hicks was an inspiration to many who knew him and enjoyed his art. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Eileen and his entire family.
He was a founding member of the International Herpetological Society and became its President in 2009.
Russ Case interviewed Hicks for Reptiles Magazine in 2017:
reptilesmagazine.com/wildlife-artist-tell-hicks/?s…
1 month ago | [YT] | 22
View 1 reply
USARK Florida
Winter CrocFest 2025 is this Saturday, December 13th, at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. They are raising funds this time for Indian Gharial (Jeff Lang, PhD) and Gharial in Nepal (Phoebe Griffith, PhD).
CrocFest remains an entirely volunteer organization. Over the last 15 years, with your help they have raised over $1M for in situ crocodilian conservation projects around the world.
Thank you for your past support of CrocFest!
St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is located at 999 Anastasia Blvd, St Augustine, FL 32080.
Event times are 12 Noon to 9 pm EST. Food will be served at 4 pm and Live Auction will begin at 6 pm.
We look forward to seeing you there!
#crocfest #staugustinelife #staugustinealligatorfarm #gharial #india #crocodiles #crocodile #crocsofinstagram #alligator #alligators #usarkfl #reptiles #reptilesofinstagram
#herplife #reptilesandamphibians #lizards #lizardsofinstagram #snakes #snakesofinstagram #turtles #turtlesofinstagram #oneteamonefight #conservation
1 month ago | [YT] | 8
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
Great to see everyone at Orlando Repticon this weekend! Thanks so much to our awesome volunteers Nick, Kayla, and Stefanie of NKS Reptiles and Jordan and Chris of Green Swamp Exotics, who brought their beautiful Rhino Iguana, Pearl, for everyone to see at the USARK FL table.
Photo by Lisa Parker
Please join USARK FL by going to our website www.usarkfl.net to help protect your freedoms to keep reptiles.
#usarkfl #usarkflorida
#savefloridaspets #cyclura #rhinoiguana
1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 19
View 0 replies
USARK Florida
The Florida chicken turtle (Deirochelys reticularia chrysea) is one of the most interesting native Florida turtles. It nests mainly in the winter time. The eggs likely undergo diapause, which means that the embryos don't actually start to develop until they are exposed to warmer spring temperatures.
Chicken turtles primarily inhabit ephemeral (temporary) wetlands. They may wander from pond to pond to find the type of shallow water habitat they prefer. They feed on crayfish and dragonfly larvae as well as other arthropods, amphibians, and fish. Chicken turtles have long necks that enable them to strike prey at a surprising distance. In dry times, Chicken turtles may burrow in the ground to estivate.
Photo of Florida chicken turtle from Levy County, FL by Daniel Parker
#floridachickenturtle #chickenturtle #deirochelys
#deirochelysreticularia #worldturtleday #conservation #wildlifeconservation #environment #saveflorida #floridawildlife #wildlife #animals #animalsofinstagram #usarkfl #reptiles #reptilesandamphibians #turtles #turtlesofinstagram #oneteamonefight #savetheturtles
1 month ago | [YT] | 18
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USARK Florida
Thanks so much to Dave and Julie of StarBorn Reptiles for donating this adorable baby Burmese brown tortoise for Saturday's auction.
Auction to benefit USARK FL
Saturday Nov 8, 2025 4pm
at Repticon Tampa
repticon.com/florida/tampa/
Florida State Fairgrounds
4800 US-301
Tampa, FL 33610
We need volunteers for Saturday starting at 10am. Volunteers will get free admission into Repticon Tampa.
Please email info@usarkfl.net to volunteer or donate auction items. Thank you so much!
2 months ago | [YT] | 13
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