Folks -- I probably should have done a little research on the specifics of protections of herps, such as fence lizards, etc., before making my previous posting with comments on possession of California herps. I just did a Google search out of curiosity and came a cross a California herps website which includes disclaimers against offering legal advice, but also lists and quotes some California regulations on the possession of reptiles and amphibians. The website is at:
http://www.californiaherps.com/info/herpinglaws.html The gyst of the regs as I saw them on this website is that a California sport fishing license is required to possess common reptiles and amphibians, even when there are no limits to possession. I think this is generally a good policy, although I don't know if the public is generally aware of it. Obviously, listed (imperiled) species are treated differently, with no permits issued for sport take. Thanks to all for the interesting, informative and sometimes entertaining private replies I have received from this thread of discussion. And please, California residents -- don't go grabbing wild herps in California under the (mis)understanding based on my erroneous comments that no permits are required to do so! Stan Moore San Geronimo, CA [EMAIL PROTECTED]
