Last Updated: 18 January 2010

NEXT MEETING

When: April 20, 2010, 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Where: OAKLAND NATURE PRESERVE 747 Machette Trail, Oakland, FL. For directions click here: Oakland Nature Preserve

Dennis Uhrig will be our speaker. Dennis breeds many species of turtles and will speak and present a slide show  about Trachemys turtle species of  Central and South America. 

 POINTS OF INTEREST

Join the Turtle Survival Alliance - Read their recent newsletter for more information

The UNITED STATES ASSOCIATION OF REPTILE KEEPERS has an on-line petition that lets the Florida Wildlife Commission know that you support the actions of the reptile industry and its efforts protect our beautiful environment, ensure human and animal safety and ensure the ability to pursue our hobby and business.  Click here to sign the petition.

SALMONELLA SURVEY - Marvin Bennett had a survey on table at three major reptile shows in 2007 to determine whether people who handle turtles on a regular basis are affected by salmonella.  Check out the survey at the link (Microsoft powerpoint required) to see the results for yourself.

Check the new and improved members section where pictures from Marvin Bennett and Harry & Christi Straub have been uploaded for all to view.  Send pictures of your turtle and tortoise enclosures to turtleandtortoiseclubofflorida@gmail.com so we can upload them onto the website for all to see.

Shown above is a soft-shell, freshwater turtle. Until October of 2008, turtles like these could legally be taken in unlimited numbers. A temporary rule that limited the number that could be taken per day will be reviewed by the state in April, at which time the state could go back to the old, unlimited harvest or enact stricter limits.

FLORIDA BOARD PROPOSES BAN OF SALES OF FRESHWATER TURTLES - The staff of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee has proposed a complete ban on the commercial harvest and sale of wild freshwater turtles.  Click here for more details.

GOV. CRIST REQUESTS BAN ON TURTLE HUNTING - Governor Charlie Crist wrote a letter to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission asking the members to ban the harvesting of freshwater turtles in Florida. 

FWC Passes New Rule on Limits for Freshwater Turtle Harvests