Hello-
The latest issue of Herp Digest detailed the massive raids and arrests conducted last week in 5 states.
I'm not sure if list rules allow me to forward the article to the Geckolist, so anyone who would like a copy can email me off list.
There are a few things we should all take note of-
Most arrests involved venomous snakes that are prohibited by local law- moving these across state lines makes it a federal felony to boot.
It also appears that a number of the arrests involved local native animals illegally harvested from their native habitat- an extremely decimating situation for localized populations.
Several "swap meets" were also raided simultaneously. The casual herper should take note- that rare tortoise or salamander may be a cool pet- but definitely not worth being arrested. Many of those arrested are also charged with failing to maintain proper records- Did you get the name of the guy who sold you that box turtle? Where was it harvested?
Lastly- even an arrest doesn't prove guilt- but below is a name many listers may recognize. (taken from the article) I will only say that based on what I have seen personally, his poor husbandry habits and unhealthy animals make his appearance in the article no surprise. (this is only my personal opinion).
"24. John J. Kick, age 36, Middleport, New York. 2 counts - Sell wild
animals without a valid permit. 3 counts - Possess wild animals and fail to
maintain accurate records. 1 count - Possess native reptiles and fail to PIT
tag as required. 1 count - Possess more than four of same species of
reptiles or amphibians taken from wild".
Many of us may be responsible for the suffering of these animals by our lack of diligence and our desire to own rare or colorful herps. Somebody is buying these ill gotten animals and thereby funding their continued suffering.
This hurts the legal herp trade, feeds the fiery rhetoric and arms the animal rights activists who would abolish the trade entirely. (Iguanas are already illegal in NYC- "Fierce and Ferocious" they say.)
Again - anyone who wants the entire article can email me off list
Jason
