Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Where I can find out info on Laws for field collecting and posessing herps there???
Thanks,
Andrew G

Well, I used to have a valid link on my site www.mcmartinville.com/reptiles/trips/equip.htm, but I now see they've removed the referenced page.

From the SC DNR site map I found www.dnr.sc.gov/regs/pdf/2005RulesRegs.pdf. The regs state that a hunting license is required for GAME, and a fishing license is required for FISH. Herps are defined as neither (well, they're not defined in the SC huntin' regs, anyway). This would imply that you don't need a license to go herping in SC, but I would write/call the DNR and get their take (I'd be interested in posting such a reply on my site if you do so).

The problem with SC and many other states' regs is that when hunting/fishing regs were originally conceived Back In The Day, no one "in their right mind" was collecting herps. Some states have realized that some form of regulation is necessary, and have specified herps in their regs, defining them as "nongame" animals (generally meaning no closed season etc). Other states have put them under the fishing regulations, which at first glance seems odd, but makes more sense when viewed in light of the hunter education prerequisites for hunting licenses (covering safe use of firearms, which are seldom used in field herping). Still other states have made herping flat-out illegal. Even taking a picture of a herp can be considered "pursuit" or "harassment" of the animal and is subject to fine.
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Chris McMartin
www.mcmartinville.com
I'm Not a Herpetologist, but I Play One on the Internet

Since SC is one of the few states still allowing commercial collection of most of their turtles, I doubt there are too many regs. But, as recommended, contact the authorities in-state.

Katrina

Thank you both for your information.