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News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2000
RULES WILL HELP PROTECT OHIO REPTILES, AMPHIBIANS
COLUMBUS, OH -- Rules adopted last fall by the Ohio Wildlife Council now offer improved protection for Ohio's reptiles and amphibians, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
While children may still collect and keep native reptiles and amphibians, a propagating license is required for persons who own, buy, sell, or trade any native amphibian species or wood turtles.
“The purpose for these regulations is to protect and conserve native reptiles and amphibians while maintaining the educational and economic benefits derived from them. This is one step we are taking to ensure the conservation of Ohio's native reptiles and amphibians,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Michael J. Budzik.
A propagating license application must be obtained from the Division of Wildlife within 10 days after taking possession of any native reptile, amphibian, or wood turtle. With a propagating license, except for state endangered species, an Ohio resident may possess no more than four wild-captured native species of reptiles and amphibians. Residents may possess an unlimited number of animals produced in captivity or legally obtained from out-of-state sources with the proper documentation, provided they have a propagating permit.
Special rules apply to those who capture, obtain, and possess reptiles and amphibians for educational and research purposes.
Persons who have a valid fishing license may now only take bullfrogs, green frogs, snapping turtles, and softshell turtles. A daily limit of 10 bullfrogs or green frogs, either singly or in combination may be taken with a fishing license. Ohio's statewide frog season extends from June 15 through April 30 of the following year.
A list of these legally obtainable species and other regulations and licensing information pertaining to possession and sale of reptiles and amphibians in Ohio is contained in Division of Wildlife Publication No. 3 - Reptiles and Amphibians Licensing and Regulations. This publication may be obtained from any Division of Wildlife district office located in Columbus, Akron, Athens, Findlay, and Xenia, or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.
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For Further Information Contact:
Dan Schneider, John WisseODNR Division of Wildlife
(614) 265-6300
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