A reasonably important role that amateur herpers can provide science is to report new locality sightings of various species. A range extension of the Sharp-tailed Snake in south central B.C. would be of considerable importance. But like all such sighting, some type of verification process is required in scientific circles.
Having a specimen photographed along with a corroborating witness, having the specimens confirmed by a professional herpetologist, having the specimen preserved and deposited at an institution, etc. are ways that to confirm new sightings along with recording acceptable collection and locality information.
Even if you are unable to provide the above, a potential new locality sighting such as yours is important for researchers to zero in on during future herp surveys in your region. If someone else with 'credential's (herpetologists, etc.) also has observed the species in your area, that in itself lend further substance to your sightings. Eventually a specimens should be collected and sent to an institution to establish a firm range extension for a species, in your case, Contia tenuis.
If you are certain of your find, if you could provide an approximate date and reasonable description of the locality, that would very much be appreciated. If you could also provide the name off any other person or persons that have also observed the species in your region, that would also be greatly appreciated.
My e-mail address is: charinabottae@earthlink.net
Since my major species of interest is the Rubber Boa, any sighting of that species with approximate dates and locations would also be welcome.
Richard F. Hoyer
Posted by: snakegal123456 at Thu Jul 14 15:02:03 2005 [ Report Abuse ] [ Email Message ]
Okanogan Lake extends from just south of Vernon to Penticton BC. It does not go to the US. It's almost half way between BC and Alberta. I actually saw a sharp tailed snake a few years back there so yes they do live there. The species that live there are Western yellow bellied racer, gopher snake, North west pacific rattlesnake, desert night snake( the herpetologist I met actually discovered this snake), sharp tailed snake, wandering garter snake, common garter snake and rubber boa.
.
