Conservation – The Ethics of Herpetology

When it is necessary to procure research specimens from outside sources, only reputable suppliers should be used. If animals are procured by capture in the wild, this must be done in as painless and humane a manner as possible and must comply with any relevant legislation (i.e., with proper permits in hand). Individuals of endangered species or populations should not be taken from the wild unless they are part of an active conservation program.
Because the practice does little to advance society’s understanding of amphibian and reptile biology, HL hopes that its members will avoid the capture/purchase and captive breeding of herpetofauna with the express purpose of producing anomalies in body form, coloration or pattern.
Maintenance of captive amphibian and reptile specimens for the purposes of research should be carried out following guidelines established in the Animal Welfare Act and under the purview of an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.
Links to .pdf’s of Positions Statements related to conservation (e.g., Rattlesnake round-ups, etc.).

Respectfully submitted,

Stephen Mullin

217.581.6234