Posted by:
chris_mcmartin
at Sun Dec 7 20:33:27 2003 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by chris_mcmartin ]
I say that removal from the gene pool doesn't matter by what means--habitat destruction (development of housing tracts), running over with vehicles, or collecting. The only one of these three options which offers any potential of a positive outcome would be collecting, as captive-breeding could result which may ultimately lessen pressure on other, more-secure-from-habitat-destruction populations.
As far as relocation goes, I do it. My herp club has a whole mess o' people who do it. The cops call us to come get snakes out of homes, trees, schools, etc. On this topic, I again have to ask what is in the better interest of the local biodiversity--a snake cut up and thrown into a dumpster, or a snake which may or may not acclimate to new surroundings? My option is usually to relocate, because even if the individual doesn't make it, it may end up "giving back" to the local ecosystem by way of providing prey for another animal (hawks, coyotes, etc).
However, with the preliminary studies leaning towards one of my oft-rescued species, Crotalus atrox, not relocating well, I have pledged to personally EAT the next large rattler I get on a snake call. I figure the juveniles have more of a chance at successful relocation, plus they don't have as much meat on them. 
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Chris McMartin
www.mcmartinville.com
I'm Not a Herpetologist, but I Play One on the Internet
[ Hide Replies ]
- To collect or not to collect, that is the Question. - smokeysshadow, Sun Dec 7 00:19:01 2003
- RE: To collect or not to collect, that is the Question. - spottedturtleman, Sun Dec 7 06:14:17 2003
- RE: To collect or not to collect, that is the Question. - paalexan, Sun Dec 7 10:14:00 2003
- RE: To collect or not to collect, that is the Question. - RichardFHoyer, Sun Dec 7 14:00:30 2003
 My Opinions >>> - chris_mcmartin, Sun Dec 7 20:33:27 2003- Sustainable yield - Jeff Schofield, Mon Dec 8 01:57:41 2003
- Thank you all for the replys - smokeysshadow, Tue Dec 9 01:48:11 2003
- Unpopular reply! - chuckelliott, Tue Dec 16 18:59:18 2003
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