GeoHerps

OK GeoHerpers, we need your help!

If you are in the United States, please take note and take action…

Please contact your federal representatives and senators and the Department of Energy. You can use the ARAV script below……

ARAV's Public Statement on the
US Mandate on Basking Bulbs



The ARAV Board-of-Directors in conjunction with ARAV's LAW committee has released the following statement regarding the US Dept of Energy's recent mandate banning the manufacture, distribution and sales of bulbs used in the husbandry of reptile and amphibians. We encourage your action on this issue and may use this statement in it's entirety as you see fit.



A recent mandate by the Department of Energy threatens to negatively impact care for captive reptiles and amphibians within the United States. The mandate, which went into law on July 3rd, 2024, bans the manufacture, distribution, and sale of lighting that does not meet a defined lumens to watt ratio and are classified as “General Service Lamps”. While this mandate does allow exemptions for husbandry, it does not include a husbandry exemption for compact UV bulbs and basking bulbs (

Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians | ARAV Membership Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) is an organization meant for veterinarians and pet owners. Click here to learn more.

During hot summer months, make sure small troughs of water stay filled to the top. This will allow toads who jump in to cool off a way to get to the edge and climb out. Having a small floating plank of wood also helps give them an island to rest on when the water level gets low. Honey bees can use this plank of wood as well to protect themselves from drowning. They also make various pool devices to help toads and frogs escape pools safely. Have a safe summer!!

Hey fellow Herpers....... I wanted to make sure you are aware of the emerging snake disease called Snake Fungal Disease caused by Ophidiomycoses ophidiicola. It started in the northwest US, but is rapidly spreading west and south. It has showed up in California. It is most harmful for pit vipers, esp the already threatened, Timber Rattlesnakes. But it affects all snakes in the wild and in captivity. Here are some good guidelines to help prevent its spread. You may also be on the front line of recognizing this in native populations. So become familiar with what it looks like and report your findings. Photos and information in comments from Dr. Amanda Guthrie....

Hey GeoHerps fans!!! We’ve all been crazy busy this year!! I just wanted to share a few fabulous herps I found on my “vacation” backpacking trip in the Ozarks in Northwest Arkansas. It was an awesome trip. What fabulous herps have you found over the summer months?

Recycling a shallow plastic container underneath your AC outflow can provide a much-needed summer oasis for various species! This Woodhouse toad is really enjoying his new pool on this hot summer evening! Show us photos of your herps finding clever ways of staying cool this summer......

Hey GeoHerpers!!! Spring is hoppin’!!! Show us what herps you are finding and where.........

Did you know that there is a Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge that young men and women can earn in Scouts?! Dr. Jennifer Faunce Garretson is a Merit Badge Counselor for Reptile and Amphibian Study and assisted three Scouts with the completion of this merit badge today! Way to go, Scouts!!