Do Hobbyists Hinder Conservation? A Herpetologist's Opinion - What do You Think?

[findiviglio]

Hi, Frank Indiviglio here. I’m a herpetologist, zoologist and book author, recently retired from a career spent at several zoos, aquarium, and museums, including over 20 years with the Bronx Zoo.

While over-collection and poorly-prepared pet keepers have certainly led to declines in wild populations of some species, private hobbyists have also contributed immensely to the conservation of amphibians, invertebrates and reptiles (as well as fishes, birds and mammals). This is especially true of those animals which zoos lack the interest or space to maintain…often the very creatures most favored by private keepers. Read the rest of this article here Reptile Hobbyists - Helping or Hindering Reptile and Amphibian Conservation?

Please also check out my posts on Twitter http://bitly.com/JP27Nj and Facebook http://on.fb.me/KckP1m

My Bio, with photos of animals I’ve been lucky enough to work with: That Pet Place welcomes Zoologist/Herpetologist Frank Indiviglio to That Reptile Blog | That Reptile Blog

Best Regards, Frank Indiviglio

[deranged chipmunk]

As always Frank, another excellent article. It's very refreshing to see the hobbyists getting some credit for a change keep up the great work!!

[Raya]

Interesting read. Thanks for sharing!

[findiviglio]

As always Frank, another excellent article. It's very refreshing to see the hobbyists getting some credit for a change keep up the great work!!

Thanks very much. Bill; best regards, Frank

[AKFROG]

I am glad we have a herpetologist on board, welcome Frank.

[findiviglio]

Hello al,

Thanks very much for the kind words, Frank