Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello,

I'm planning on obtaining one individual of one of these three species in the near future:

Ball Python
Rough Green Snake
Corn Snake

I will be moving to the Columbus area shortly and was wondering if there is any special legislation concerning the possession of these snakes, especially the rough green. Any information you could offer regarding permits, legal possession, etc. would be GREATLY appreciated. Thank you very much in advance!! ^_^

--
::i believe in joy > http://www.winds.org/nekomi/hope.html

::my homepage > http://www.winds.org/nekomi

Your okay with the python and the corn- you don't need a permit for them. The rough green snake, though, is considered a native species. For that you will need to apply with Ohio DNR for a propagation permit. Non-commercial permits cost $10. Also, any captive native snake with a snout-vent length of 18" or greater has to be PIT tagged. You have to keep accurate records of Certificate of Origin, sales receipt, bill of sales, or other DNR approved evidence of lawful aquisition. You have to keep these records for a period of 5 years, and these are subject to inspection by the DNR. If you go to the Greater Cincinnati Herpetological Society website, www.cincyherps.com, they have a link to Ohio DNR reptile laws. I hope this helps. Good luck with your move.

Todd

Todd,

Thanks so much for replying! ^_^ I figured as much as far as licensing goes, but I'm glad to hear that the corn isn't considered native. One more quick question, though. You mentioned having adult rough greens PIT tagged... does this apply to snakes purchased out-of-state or captive-bred (although I don't think anyone is currently breeding rough greens) as well? I have concerns about PIT tagging due to the very thin body of these snakes. Thanks again for taking the time to reply! ^_^

Unfortunatly, I believe it does. I don't know how you could tag them without gravely injuring them, given there slender girth. Doesn't make sense. After you move, you should check out the Ohio reptile show. They have them monthly in Columbus.

Todd

Hi Todd,

Thanks again for answering, you're a great help. ^_^

That's a real shame about the PIT tags. Almost makes me reconsider keeping one of those gorgeous little snakes. I don't see how a tracking tag on a captive animal will make much difference in the wild populations anyway... just a shame that they would be willing to put an animal's health at risk for the sake of legislation. I wonder if there's any recompense for owners whose snakes are killed by the tags... seems unfair to me.

Anyway, I'm very excited about attending one of the All-Ohio shows. ^_^ I'm hoping to attend one before I actually move, but even if I can't, I'm definitely going to make the NOAH show this coming weekend.

Thanks again, I appreciate the info!

Certain types of snakes, like green snakes, will surely die if implented with a PIT tag. This is just one of the ways the ODNR is "conserving" native wildlife - by killing it.

Many people are opposed to the ODNR regulations which are "overkill" (pardon the pun) and out of line with the regulations that other states have to protect native wildlife.

NOAH, the Northern Ohio Association of Herpetologists, has their response to the ODNR ruling posted on their website: www.noahonline.net

Tim

here is the link to the OH regs.

http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/wildlife/License/pub03.htm

you will find all the info you need here.

good luck

NO there is nothing they will do about the loss and they are still promoting the pit tags. Several individuals are fighting this currently in Ohio - because it is almost guarenteed to be a death sentense. I would definately hold off and be resistant to the idea. If you have good documentation to cover you and don't intend to go around showing your animal I would give it some time. I am not promoting breaking the law, but I have real concerns hearing about a law that is essentially a dealth sentence. I am lucky and have NO native species - so that I don't have to deal with this - because I couldn't. Good luck hope to see you at the show.