Hello fellow herpers,
Remember that as the weather gets warmer the animals get more active, this causes a problem that we all fear. They seek out the warmth of the roadways. Be sure to let your friends and family know to drive safely, especially at dusk.

If your like me and you stop and move animals off to the side of the road for safety there are a few things you want to be sure to do.
1. Carry heavy leather gloves to prevent a scratch or bite.
2. Try to let the animal walk off under it's own power first. (this reduces stress on the animal)
3. Watch traffic, your safety comes first.
4. If the animal is injured, contact a local wildlife officer or police.

And most importantly. If you can not identify the species, DO NOT attempt to move it. Not only snakes, but turtles. A snapping turtle can remove a finger with no problem at all.

Animal safety is a very important issue to me, but safety and awareness are more important. Thanks

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Great advice Jay...I never hesitate to stop and help an animal crossing or warming on the roadway....Lyn

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Warmest Regards from Lyn

Another point, these animals should never be brought home for pets. They can harbor diseases that your captive bred babies can't cope with. It is also illegal in almost all states to remove an animal from the wild, which can lead to the loss of all your herps. This combined with the loss from the breeding population by removing an animalfrom native habitat, leaves you with a "look, but don't touch" scenario.

__________________
Answers are great. But I prefer questions!

Visit me at www.jaysreptiles.com