Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi, can anyone give info on what license needed to collect and or photograph herps in New Mexico? Thanks Clark

Yeah, I'm curious about that too. I just got my New Mexico Amphibians and Reptiles book in. Since I won't be able to herp in West Texas anymore, looks like I'll be going to NM.

a non resident's hunting license runs about $50. Not sure how long that is for or what, but that's what I seem to recall. As a resident, it's free. I can go get any unprotected species. I believe there are some bag limits on some things, but most are reasonable. However, if you're coming from west Texas to look for these:

or:

then leave with just photos and no specimens. New Mexico is a great place to herp. Most of the west Texas stuff in the southeast and most of the Arizona stuff in the southwest. If you plan on coming this way, feel free to let me know: nmherper(at)hotmail(dot)com

Collecting from the road way is legal, correct? Will a Non Resident Non Game Hunting License work? Thanks Clark

Current regs say that if you are collecting for commercial purposes, (including collecting adult animals to sell their offspring at a later date), you will need a state-issued permit from the state herpetologist. It costs $50 per year. You will also be required to purchase a non-resident hunting license. All animals must be recorded and reported to get renewed. There are limits on certain taxa. Traffic laws apply just like in Texas.

Have your ducks in a row before you go. Wardens patrol at night for poachers. They are also not accustomed to shining cuts like Texas is. 2 main herps found shining are protected in NM- the lepidus lepidus and the alterna. Animals transported out of NM illegally are pursued by USFWS under lacey act.

hope this helps

Hi, Not collesting for commercial or to sell offspring. Where can i get a list of species with bag limits and what species are not protected, I believe it is called the Directors Amphibian and Reptile List. Thanks Clark

Clark,

We have the New Mexico Protected Species List at http://www.southwesternherp.com/protectedspecies/newmexico.html
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Gerald Keown
Southwestern Center for Herpetological Research
www.southwesternherp.com

Gerald, would you know if the non resedent non game hunting license is what i would need ? Thanks Clark

Clark,

I seem to recall that by being from out of state you are required to have both their herp permit and a non-resident hunting license, but I could be mistaken.

Why not check out the new Mexico Game and Fish site at http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/

You should be able to get the correct information there.
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Gerald Keown
Southwestern Center for Herpetological Research
www.southwesternherp.com