>>Hello everyone,
>>
>> Usually I study my animals in captivity. This year I think I am going to start studying some wild specimens in their natural habitat. I am just wondering what forms do the experienced field researchers in here use? What information do you add in the forms?
>>Does anyone have a "template" that first timers can use? Also besides possibly a snake hook and some tongs, are there any other tools/supplies that I should take? Any information for a first timer would be great. Also if anyone happens to know of a good website as a reference for me, that would be awesome.
>>
>>Thanks in advance,
>>
>>Stan
I think most field herpers just make their own forms or just take the notes they need. If you work with your state they may have forms for certain snakes, like my state needs info on the Eastern massasauga and will provide some info to help collect data. You might get better feedback on the Field Notes and Observations Forum at this site. There are other sites too that talk about field collecting, etc. Personally, I mainly take photos and keep albums on the species I'm interested in. Then I use the photos to help me discuss things like natural history and behavior, etc. I have a captive collection too, which mainly started because our winters are so long native snakes are only active about five months. My collection keeps me active in my hobby year 'round. Good luck in your quest.
TC
Photo: A blue racer my friend Eddie and I found last spring...
-----
Ratsnake Haven: Calico and hypo Chinese beauty snakes, Mandarin ratsnakes, Chinese twin-spotted ratsnakes, South Korean Dione's ratsnake, leopard snakes, Great Plains ratsnakes, and corn snakes 
