Warning: S373

Take Action Against S373 Today!


Senator Bill Nelson of Florida has Proposed a FEDERAL BAN on ALL Pythons. S373 is a Very Simple Bill that calls for no Appropriations (funding). That makes it Dangerous because it would be so easy to pass without any real consideration. We must take Action NOW to try and STOP this Bill from passing as written.

What it is:

S373 is a Federal Ban that would effect ALL pythons in EVERY State.
This Bill is an effort to bypass the established process of 'Rule Change' to the Injurious Wildlife List of the Lacey Act that was initiated by the South Florida Water Management District last year. This process is moving into it's second year and is ongoing. USARK warned last April at the 'Herp Summit' in Chicago that a political move was afoot to go around the normal 'Rule Change' process. Although ridiculed by some as "Not Possible", S373 proves that prediction true.
This is an issue regarding Burmese Pythons living feral in South Florida. No other species. No where else. Other pythons have nothing to do with feral populations of Burmese Pythons in South Florida.
S373 has been moved into the Water & Wildlife Sub- Committee. It will be heard there and if given a favorable rating move back to the full Environment & Public Works Committee. (see contact info below)
What it isn't:

This is NOT HR669 the other Federal Bill that we have been campaigning against.
There is NO Scientific Evidence to support the premise that passing S373 will have any impact whatsoever on the Burmese Python situation that is confined to the Southern tip of Florida.
There is absolutely NO Evidence of any kind to support that this is a problem anywhere outside of South Florida.
What USARK is doing:

USARK is working with Scientists on the ground in South Florida and throughout the SE to understand the real dynamics of what has occurred with the Burmese Python. Not the hype but the Hard Facts. During their annual conference South Eastern Partners in Amphibian & Reptile Conservation (SE PARC) established an Invasive Species Task Force to look into these questions. ALL of the Best Minds on the Subject from all the top universities and government agencies were on hand. Dr. Warren Booth, PhD Invasive Species Biologist & Andrew Wyatt, both of USARK, played a leadership role in the formation of the Task Force.
Shawn Heflick is leading USARK's participation in a PBS Documentary arranged by Tom Crutchfield/ Shawn Heflick and Hosted by Nigel Marven to publicize the truth behind the Burmese Python & other potential Invasive Herps in South Florida.
USARK is not only working chest deep in the Everglades, but we are actively working to influence key personnel in the US House and Senate, as well as the National Park Service and the US Fish & Wildlife Service. From the Everglades to Washington DC we are working hard on behalf of our community and industry to assure that if any legislation is passed, it will be fair and in the best interests of the Herp Community. We have No other conflicting allegiances.
USARK has introduced State Legislation including Non- Release & Escape Prevention provisions providing safety measures at the State level.
What Can You Do Today to STOP S373?

Join USARK's Reptile Nation!There is Strength in Numbers... Protect Your Rights!
Call, write, email & fax the Sponsor and the Sub-Committee for S373. (contact info & sample letter below)
Be Polite & Professional. If you can't do this don't bother because it will damage our efforts.
***Forward this to everyone on your email list, post it on every forum/ social networking site.
When you have finished with the steps above, send an email to senate373@yahoo.com with 'No on S373' in the Subject Line so that USARK can track the number of responses.
Sample Letter (cut & paste):

Subject: NO on S373

I oppose S373 as written. The Burmese Python issue is a South Florida issue not a National one. There is No credible evidence to show that these animals can exist north of Lake Okeechobee. Many different species of Pythons have been imported into the US over the last 50 years. The only pythons that have been established have been Burmese Pythons, but only in South Florida; no where else. No evidence exists anywhere to suggest that Banning all Pythons will have any positive impact on the effected area in the southern tip of Florida.

Banning all pythons nationwide would have a devastating effect on an already troubled economy. It would destroy thousands of hardworking American families and small businesses. Not just the breeders and dealers but hobbyists, dry goods, equipment manufacturers, food providers, shippers, trade shows, hotels and restaurants. To overlook the crushing blow this would have to an entire segment of the economy is irresponsible.

(add what S373 would mean to you and your family)

Sincerely,

(signature line)



Contacts:

Senator Bill Nelson

716 Senate Hart Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-5274
Fax: 202-228-2183

http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm





Sheldon Whitehouse, D-RI
Hart Senate Office Building, Room 502, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://whitehouse.senate.gov/contact/ phone: 202-224-2921Fax: 202-228-6362

Tom Udall, D-NM
B40D Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://tomudall.senate.gov/contact/contact.cfm
phone: (202) 224-6621

Jeff Merkley, D-Ore
SDB-40B Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://merkley.senate.gov/contact/contact.cfm phone: (202) 228-3997fax: 202-2283997

Mike Crapo, Ranking Member, R-Idaho
239 Dirksen Senate Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://crapo.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm
phone: (202) 224-6142fax: 202-228-1375

John Barrasso, R-WY
307 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://barrasso.senate.gov/public/in...Us.ContactForm
phone: (202) 224-6441
tollfree: (866) 235-9553

Lamar Alexander, R-TN
455 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://alexander.senate.gov/public/i...n=Contact.Home
phone: (202) 224-4944fax: 202-228-3398






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The honorable Bill Nelson from FL couldn't find his own rear end with a map and a flashlight. He also wouldn't know a Python from a Coral Snake. Typical grandstanding gesture to keep the gereactric vote in South FL, cause it's a well know fact that wild FL swamp Burms eat old people.

Phew, I sent the message to all of the names up there...

I would send a message... but you usually need to be 18+ to sign a potition or send letters for different political reasons... if i can remember.. can any1 second this info?? if its false ill start something around my city/school

Quote:

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Originally Posted by temec

I would send a message... but you usually need to be 18+ to sign a potition or send letters for different political reasons... if i can remember.. can any1 second this info?? if its false ill start something around my city/school

---

you dont have to be 18 to tell them send letters or eamils to them.

You absolutely CAN send a letter, even if you are not yet 18. I know there have been instances in the past when letter writing campaigns mostly by children have been influential.

ANYONE can send a letter, even if you are not a citizen of the US. I would recommend being careful that you do not misrepresent yourself.

Signing petitions is a little different; I think it may depend on the individual petition and what exactly it says.

Dear Senator,

I hope you are well. I am not so well this evening due to your desire to instate this particular bill. I hope that you have the time to read, because it's important that you understand the ramifications of a bill such as this.

Over the past twenty plus years the exotics industry has begun to grow a great deal. Breeders now produce captive bred and hatched animals, and the removal of these animals from the wild has been reduced. MOST of these breeders are well-respected in the herpetological community, and they are looked to for important information and good husbandry practices. However; just as it is with any animal breeding world, there are those out there that have given this industry a bad name.

Before you look to the breeders, first you must look at your pet stores, such as PETCO and PETSMART. Their husbandry is sub par, their animals normally have mites, respiratory infections, etc. The lives of these animals is left in the hands of uneducated high school kids who don’t know an under tank heater from a pair of hemostats. Before you punish men and women who base their entire existence upon selling these animals, look to your large corporations for their lack of information given to their customers.

There are hundreds of reptile breeders, who specifically deal with the larger boids and pythons. The families boidae and pythonidae contain many species and sub species that do not reach lengths of more than ten feet. If your bill encompasses JUST pythons, as opposed to those reptiles that could potentially be detrimental to the environment, you ostracize a great deal of your constituents. Ball pythons, for example, usually do not top lengths of six feet, they’re non-aggressive, and are wonderful beginner pets for people who enjoy reptiles and may be allergic to cats and/or dogs.

My suggestion to you, and I believe this is already the case, is to pass legislation that requires a permit for any snake in the boidae and pythonidae families that reach in excess of 10 or more feet. In addition to that, you could pass legislation that would require ALL pet stores to give full disclosure of information on these larger snakes.

In reference to Interstate Transport: Before you ban Interstate Transport, think about the many, many lives you’d be putting into jeopardy by doing so. Breeders travel to multiple reptile exposés to make a living and continue spreading the respect and good husbandry of these animals. We’re already in the middle of an economic crisis; why try and tote an irrational piece of legislation that would ruin lives when you can just as easily save lives, both human and reptile.

Senator, I implore you to rethink your action. You could offer so much more than fear and adolescent response. You could save the environment you wish to save, animals that need to be saved, and be seen as a respectable man. Please do not follow your party’s current line of fear and panic. Be reasonable, and you can find many more doors open for you that way.

Thank you for reading,

Melanie Ryan Seals

i sent him a huge message a while back and got this response:

Dear Mr. Jennings:

Thank you for writing me regarding management of invasive species, such as the Burmese python snake, in the Everglades National Park.

Biologists with Everglades National Park confirmed a breeding population of Burmese python in the Florida Everglades in 2003 and speculate that their introduction is most likely the result of released pets. The presence of this snake threatens some 68 endangered species that live in the fragile Everglades ecosystem.

Python populations have since been discovered in Big Cypress National Preserve to the north, Miami’s water management areas to the northeast, Key Largo to the southeast, and many State parks, municipalities, and public and private lands in the region.

Further, new climate maps developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) suggest that Burmese pythons and other giant snakes are highly adaptable to new environments and could thrive in climactic conditions previously thought prohibitive.

I appreciate your informed policy suggestions on this issue and will keep them in mind. Please do not hesitate to contact me again.

i'd tried to make my email focus on the fact that this will cause a huge number of people to lose their jobs and creat more economic issues. looks like a form response to me though.

Senator Bill Nelson of Florida has Proposed a FEDERAL BAN on ALL Pythons. S373 is a Very Simple Bill that calls for no Appropriations (funding). That makes it Dangerous because it would be so easy to pass without any real consideration. We must take Action NOW to try and STOP this Bill from passing as written.
What it is:
S373 is a Federal Ban that would effect ALL pythons in EVERY State.
This Bill is an effort to bypass the established process of 'Rule Change' to the Injurious Wildlife List of the Lacey Act that was initiated by the South Florida Water Management District last year. This process is moving into it's second year and is ongoing. USARK warned last April at the 'Herp Summit' in Chicago that a political move was afoot to go around the normal 'Rule Change' process. Although ridiculed by some as "Not Possible", S373 proves that prediction true.
This is an issue regarding Burmese Pythons living feral in South Florida. No other species. No where else. Other pythons have nothing to do with feral populations of Burmese Pythons in South Florida.
S373 has been moved into the Water & Wildlife Sub- Committee. It will be heard there and if given a favorable rating move back to the full Environment & Public Works Committee. (see contact info below)
What it isn't:
This is NOT HR669 the other Federal Bill that we have been campaigning against.
There is NO Scientific Evidence to support the premise that passing S373 will have any impact whatsoever on the Burmese Python situation that is confined to the Southern tip of Florida.
There is absolutely NO Evidence of any kind to support that this is a problem anywhere outside of South Florida.
What USARK is doing:
USARK is working with Scientists on the ground in South Florida and throughout the SE to understand the real dynamics of what has occurred with the Burmese Python. Not the hype but the Hard Facts. During their annual conference South Eastern Partners in Amphibian & Reptile Conservation (SE PARC) established an Invasive Species Task Force to look into these questions. ALL of the Best Minds on the Subject from all the top universities and government agencies were on hand. Dr. Warren Booth, PhD Invasive Species Biologist & Andrew Wyatt, both of USARK, played a leadership role in the formation of the Task Force.
Shawn Heflick is leading USARK's participation in a PBS Documentary arranged by Tom Crutchfield/ Shawn Heflick and Hosted by Nigel Marven to publicize the truth behind the Burmese Python & other potential Invasive Herps in South Florida.
USARK is not only working chest deep in the Everglades, but we are actively working to influence key personnel in the US House and Senate, as well as the National Park Service and the US Fish & Wildlife Service. From the Everglades to Washington DC we are working hard on behalf of our community and industry to assure that if any legislation is passed, it will be fair and in the best interests of the Herp Community. We have No other conflicting allegiances.
USARK has introduced State Legislation including Non- Release & Escape Prevention provisions providing safety measures at the State level.
What Can You Do Today to STOP S373?
Join USARK's Reptile Nation!There is Strength in Numbers... Protect Your Rights!
Call, write, email & fax the Sponsor and the Sub-Committee for S373. (contact info & sample letter below)
Be Polite & Professional. If you can't do this don't bother because it will damage our efforts.
***Forward this to everyone on your email list, post it on every forum/ social networking site.
When you have finished with the steps above, send an email to senate373@yahoo.com with 'No on S373' in the Subject Line so that USARK can track the number of responses.
Sample Letter (cut & paste):
Subject: NO on S373
I oppose S373 as written. The Burmese Python issue is a South Florida issue not a National one. There is No credible evidence to show that these animals can exist north of Lake Okeechobee. Many different species of Pythons have been imported into the US over the last 50 years. The only pythons that have been established have been Burmese Pythons, but only in South Florida; no where else. No evidence exists anywhere to suggest that Banning all Pythons will have any positive impact on the effected area in the southern tip of Florida.
Banning all pythons nationwide would have a devastating effect on an already troubled economy. It would destroy thousands of hardworking American families and small businesses. Not just the breeders and dealers but hobbyists, dry goods, equipment manufacturers, food providers, shippers, trade shows, hotels and restaurants. To overlook the crushing blow this would have to an entire segment of the economy is irresponsible.
(add what S373 would mean to you and your family)
Sincerely,
(signature line)

Contacts:
Senator Bill Nelson
716 Senate Hart Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-5274
Fax: 202-228-2183
http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm


Sheldon Whitehouse, D-RI
Hart Senate Office Building, Room 502, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://whitehouse.senate.gov/contact/ phone: 202-224-2921Fax: 202-228-6362

Tom Udall, D-NM
B40D Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://tomudall.senate.gov/contact/contact.cfm
phone: (202) 224-6621

Jeff Merkley, D-Ore
SDB-40B Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
email: form at http://merkley.senate.gov/contact/contact.cfm phone: (202) 228-3997fax: 202-2283997

Mike Crapo, Ranking Member, R-Idaho
239 Dirksen Senate Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://crapo.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm
phone: (202) 224-6142fax: 202-228-1375

John Barrasso, R-WY
307 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://barrasso.senate.gov/public/in...Us.ContactForm
phone: (202) 224-6441
tollfree: (866) 235-9553

Lamar Alexander, R-TN
455 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
email: form at http://alexander.senate.gov/public/i...n=Contact.Home
phone: (202) 224-4944fax: 202-228-3398 :(:(

Webmail sent.

My last paragraph says that S373 is an ignorant bill. And that he needs to study the Ball Pythons before he moves forward with it, not only for the sake of the ball python owners but for his image as a United States Senator representing MY state of Florida.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Melicious

Be Polite & Professional. If you can't do this don't bother because it will damage our efforts.

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by anatess

My last paragraph says that S373 is an ignorant bill.

---

Guys, remember to be courteous and polite with this. Calling the bill ignorant is, in effect, calling the people who penned it and the people who support it ignorant and that can be insulting and does not help the cause.

These people are not ignorant they are just uninformed, misinformed or being intentionally fed disinformation by people who have an agenda and enough clout to get heard. We need to make it our job to provide them with the means to expand their knowledge on the subject. Provide them with the valid information they need to rethink the situation. Refer them to the Barker's articles that detail the flaws in the USGS report. Show them that we are responsible keepers who want what is best for everyone and all side by suggesting alternatives (i.e. permits for large constrictors, cage standards, etc...)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by asplundii

Guys, remember to be courteous and polite with this. Calling the bill ignorant is, in effect, calling the people who penned it and the people who support it ignorant and that can be insulting and does not help the cause.

These people are not ignorant they are just uninformed, misinformed or being intentionally fed disinformation by people who have an agenda and enough clout to get heard. We need to make it our job to provide them with the means to expand their knowledge on the subject. Provide them with the valid information they need to rethink the situation. Refer them to the Barker's articles that detail the flaws in the USGS report. Show them that we are responsible keepers who want what is best for everyone and all side by suggesting alternatives (i.e. permits for large constrictors, cage standards, etc...)

---

I disagree. Calling a BILL ignorant is not the same as calling Senator Nelson ignorant. Give me some credit. English is my second language, therefore I had to study it for 12 years to garner a bachelor's degree. Even on professional forums unlike this one, I find that I have a better command of English than a lot of Americans who take the language for granted. But, of course, I can still mispell "hemiphene". In this case, though, I'm fairly sure "ignorant" is not insolence in that context.

And it was the last paragraph of an email that provided all sorts of information on ball pythons as well as special mention of the permit process already in place in Florida. And, having worked for the Philippine Congress for a few years, I have learned that these politicos are very careful with their image. Anything that might have a negative impact on their image, they will pay closer attention to, therefore, a bit of mention on it, might get noticed among thousands of other emails both pro and con.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by anatess

But, of course, I can still mispell "hemiphene".

---

And misspell is seems :P (sorry, just playing there.)

Quote:

---

In this case, though, I'm fairly sure "ignorant" is not insolence in that context

---

I see what you are getting at but I tend to take a stand that things written, especially on the net, have no other context and so potentially loaded words, like "ignorant", usually get the worst connotation attached to them. So while I am sure you did not mean or intend to call Sen. Nelson ignorant it is possible that just by using a "volatile" word the wrong context could transfer over. I have been guilty of this myself and I am sure I will be again.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by asplundii

And misspell is seems :P (sorry, just playing there.)

---

Yeah, the misspelling was on purpose. DutchHerp called me on "hemiphene" on some other thread. That guy at age 17 can write great English as well. I could be wrong but I think English is not his first language either.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by asplundii

I see what you are getting at but I tend to take a stand that things written, especially on the net, have no other context and so potentially loaded words, like "ignorant", usually get the worst connotation attached to them. So while I am sure you did not mean or intend to call Sen. Nelson ignorant it is possible that just by using a "volatile" word the wrong context could transfer over. I have been guilty of this myself and I am sure I will be again.

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But see, this letter was not on a forum, nor a public informal venue, nor a text message where you can say LOL. This was a formal letter written to a United States Senator, who couldn't have gotten to the senate seat without knowing the difference between insolence and criticism.

But, that's beside the point. Discussing linguistics is veering us off the dire matter at hand.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by anatess

Yeah, the misspelling was on purpose. DutchHerp called me on "hemiphene" on some other thread. That guy at age 17 can write great English as well. I could be wrong but I think English is not his first language either.

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If you're referring to me, I'm 14 and English is not my first language; I had to learn it from scratch 3.5 years ago.

I actually have a pretty solid grounding in politics and here is what I've seen in this thread so far that could be improved...

1- Do NOT call a bill ignorant, even suggest that someone is currently NOT respectable, or accuse a political party of using fear/panic tactics. It WILL be taken personally whether it is meant to or not.

2- Nobody besides Herp enthusiasts or biology majors will understand what you are talking about when you say Boids or even what a Ball Python is. You often need to word these things like you are speaking to a 5 year old. I didn't say talking down to one, I said speaking to one.

3- Use statistics and comparisons. Get current figures on the herp industry, the gross income it produces, how large it is compared to say the Dog or Cat industry, percentage of business it generates in the whole Pet industry etc... Using stats like "large" or "significant" won't do anything for you.

4- Discretion is the better part of valor. These guys ARE the law and if you come off as even insulting or condescending at all it'll just give them more of a reason to go against what you want, if nothing else out of spite.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ScottyDsntKnow

3- Use statistics and comparisons. Get current figures on the herp industry, the gross income it produces, how large it is compared to say the Dog or Cat industry, percentage of business it generates in the whole Pet industry etc... Using stats like "large" or "significant" won't do anything for you.

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Those things would be amazingly helpful! I'd love to be able to use some actual facts to make my case instead of just making up random numbers as a closest guess. Is that huge list of statistics that kingsnake.com came up with for the NOI last year still around? That had lots of good info.

If we can gather the info up and post it here, the easier for everyone else to find it.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ScottyDsntKnow

I actually have a pretty solid grounding in politics and here is what I've seen in this thread so far that could be improved...

1- Do NOT call a bill ignorant, even suggest that someone is currently NOT respectable, or accuse a political party of using fear/panic tactics. It WILL be taken personally whether it is meant to or not.

---

Okay, I'm sorry to veer a little bit off topic again, but this is a peeve of mine. I'm usually a very tolerant person, but, I feel that my use of the word "ignorant" was singled out as an example of a disrespectful, derogatory, even incendiary remark for which I am quite disappointed.

A few years ago, this blue-eyed, blonde Harvard professor came on TV to say that the word Oriental is derogatory and politically incorrect. Excuse me. I am Filipino and I AM oriental and I use oriental among other things to describe people hailing from lands east of Rome. Just because somebody decided to black-list a word doesn't mean it is not a proper word to use in a sentence when applied in its proper context!

For example, here are 2 sentences:
1.) While he is an expert in ball pythons, he is ignorant of the effects of climate change on the survival of the species.
2.) He is so ignorant, it amazes me how people still give him any credit.

The 2nd sentence is obviously an insult. The 1st sentence is using the word ignorant to describe his level of knowledge and is not incendiary. It is okay to use it in a scientific document or a formal letter to a US Senator!

In any case, if you feel so strongly that it will derail the petition against S373, then don't use it. As for me, I would like to give Senator Nelson the benefit of knowing the difference between the 1st sentence and the 2nd sentence above. I just wish people would stop using it as an example of a derogatory, "class"-less statement! Meh... pipe dreams.

I'm off the podium now. Thanks.

I sent an email opposing this bill.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by anatess

Okay, I'm sorry to veer a little bit off topic again, but this is a peeve of mine. I'm usually a very tolerant person, but, I feel that my use of the word "ignorant" was singled out as an example of a disrespectful, derogatory, even incendiary remark for which I am quite disappointed.

A few years ago, this blue-eyed, blonde Harvard professor came on TV to say that the word Oriental is derogatory and politically incorrect. Excuse me. I am Filipino and I AM oriental and I use oriental among other things to describe people hailing from lands east of Rome. Just because somebody decided to black-list a word doesn't mean it is not a proper word to use in a sentence when applied in its proper context!

For example, here are 2 sentences:
1.) While he is an expert in ball pythons, he is ignorant of the effects of climate change on the survival of the species.
2.) He is so ignorant, it amazes me how people still give him any credit.

The 2nd sentence is obviously an insult. The 1st sentence is using the word ignorant to describe his level of knowledge and is not incendiary. It is okay to use it in a scientific document or a formal letter to a US Senator!

In any case, if you feel so strongly that it will derail the petition against S373, then don't use it. As for me, I would like to give Senator Nelson the benefit of knowing the difference between the 1st sentence and the 2nd sentence above. I just wish people would stop using it as an example of a derogatory, "class"-less statement! Meh... pipe dreams.

I'm off the podium now. Thanks.

---

I feel the same way as you do personally. HOWEVER, this guy wrote the bill and you calling it ignorant is calling him ignorant by association. I know you didn't mean it that way but it WILL be taken that way. Even using the word uninformed would be iffy here. I know its ridiculous but that's just how it is. I personally would have used an example such as:

Honorable Sir or Ma'am,

I write to you to ask that you please consider voting NO to S373 which would impose a federal trading ban on all species of pythons and boa constrictors. While I understand your concern about the feral population of Burmese Pythons in the Everglades and possible propagation of a non-native species to other areas, this bill does not address this issue itself, nor does it provide a solution for removal of these animals.

The Burmese Python issue is a South Florida issue not a national one. There is no credible evidence to show that these animals can exist north of Lake Okeechobee. Out of all the Pythons and Boas imported into the US over the last 50 years, only Burmese Pythons have ever established a breeding wild colony and only in South Florida. No evidence exists anywhere to suggest that banning all Pythons will have any positive impact on the effected area in the southern tip of Florida as it does nothing to address the issue that these animals are already living there. Banning the interstate trade of all pythons does nothing to solve this. To the contrary, it will destroy thousands of small businesses and further damage and already fragile economy.

While some may not consider a snake a pet, the herpetological(sp?) industy is growing by leaps and bounds. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Assn. 2007-2008 pet owners’ survey, the total number of reptiles owned in the United States increased 22 percent since the survey was taken two years ago, from 11 million to 13.4 million. In response, pet manufacturing companies, supply companies and retailers everywhere are moving to meet the demand.

“The reptile market is a growing one,” says Kevin Wai, managing director of AquaTerra International in Los Angeles. “As the aquarium industry is becoming saturated with products, manufacturers are now turning toward the reptile industry. They see the growth potential and the rising popularity of reptiles as pets and now they want to get involved.”

The proposed trade ban of Pythons and Boa Constrictors will severely restrict or even halt the rapid growth of the industry as these two animals are some of the most popular reptile pets. Yes, it is true that larger constricting snakes such as the animals currently living in the Everglades can grow to up to 20 feet and are dangerous for inexperienced keepers. However, the most common constricting snakes kept as pets, Ball Pythons(python regius) top out at 6 feet with most specimens only ever reaching about 4 feet and the thickness of a 12 oz. aluminum beverage can. These animals are not dangerous. Even the larger Boa Constrictors are considered the most docile of all constricting snakes and great pets able to be handled by one person.

Banning the interstate trade of these animals because one species is a problem in an isolated area is unfair. Would an interstate trade ban of dogs be fair to the canine community because one breed became a problem in one area of one state? I would understand requiring permits for larger constricting snakes as they can be dangerous and should only be owned by experienced, trained keepers but a straight up ban is unnecessary for a small animal such as a ball python.

As mentioned previously, this ban will be financially devastating. It will destroy thousands of hardworking American families and small businesses. Not just the breeders and dealers who make most of their sales worldwide, but hobbyists, dry goods, equipment manufacturers, food providers, shippers, trade shows, hotels and restaurants. In an already precarious economy do we really want to create even more economic hardship?

In closing, as a herpetology enthusiast and hopeful future breeder I again implore you to vote NO to this proposed bill. I know that a snake is not the ideal perfect pet for everyone but not everyone is a dog or cat person either. There are millions of us who love these reptiles and want to continue to enjoy them and all they have to offer.

Very Respectfully,
NAME

IMO that is how you communicate with these people. No I don't have very many statistics in there but I do have a reliable source and a quote. Rationalizing also plays a good part. I did say unfair, but that is much different than using the word ignorant. I'm not trying to pick on anyone in particular, I just saw that word in a post and yes it does stick out. Hopefully what I wrote can be expanded on and improved. I know I'm not the greatest writer in the world and what I wrote up there needs a bunch of editing and probably some more good information but its a start.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ScottyDsntKnow

I feel the same way as you do personally. HOWEVER, this guy wrote the bill and you calling it ignorant is calling him ignorant by association. I know you didn't mean it that way but it WILL be taken that way. Even using the word uninformed would be iffy here. I know its ridiculous but that's just how it is. I personally would have used an example such as:

Honorable Sir or Ma'am,

I write to you to ask that you please consider voting NO to S373 which would impose a federal trading ban on all species of pythons and boa constrictors. While I understand your concern about the feral population of Burmese Pythons in the Everglades and possible propagation of a non-native species to other areas, this bill does not address this issue itself, nor does it provide a solution for removal of these animals.

The Burmese Python issue is a South Florida issue not a national one. There is no credible evidence to show that these animals can exist north of Lake Okeechobee. Out of all the Pythons and Boas imported into the US over the last 50 years, only Burmese Pythons have ever established a breeding wild colony and only in South Florida. No evidence exists anywhere to suggest that banning all Pythons will have any positive impact on the effected area in the southern tip of Florida as it does nothing to address the issue that these animals are already living there. Banning the interstate trade of all pythons does nothing to solve this. To the contrary, it will destroy thousands of small businesses and further damage and already fragile economy.

While some may not consider a snake a pet, the herpetological(sp?) industy is growing by leaps and bounds. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Assn. 2007-2008 pet owners’ survey, the total number of reptiles owned in the United States increased 22 percent since the survey was taken two years ago, from 11 million to 13.4 million. In response, pet manufacturing companies, supply companies and retailers everywhere are moving to meet the demand.

“The reptile market is a growing one,” says Kevin Wai, managing director of AquaTerra International in Los Angeles. “As the aquarium industry is becoming saturated with products, manufacturers are now turning toward the reptile industry. They see the growth potential and the rising popularity of reptiles as pets and now they want to get involved.”

The proposed trade ban of Pythons and Boa Constrictors will severely restrict or even halt the rapid growth of the industry as these two animals are some of the most popular reptile pets. Yes, it is true that larger constricting snakes such as the animals currently living in the Everglades can grow to up to 20 feet and are dangerous for inexperienced keepers. However, the most common constricting snakes kept as pets, Ball Pythons(python regius) top out at 6 feet with most specimens only ever reaching about 4 feet and the thickness of a 12 oz. aluminum beverage can. These animals are not dangerous. Even the larger Boa Constrictors are considered the most docile of all constricting snakes and great pets able to be handled by one person.

Banning the interstate trade of these animals because one species is a problem in an isolated area is unfair. Would an interstate trade ban of dogs be fair to the canine community because one breed became a problem in one area of one state? I would understand requiring permits for larger constricting snakes as they can be dangerous and should only be owned by experienced, trained keepers but a straight up ban is unnecessary for a small animal such as a ball python.

As mentioned previously, this ban will be financially devastating. It will destroy thousands of hardworking American families and small businesses. Not just the breeders and dealers who make most of their sales worldwide, but hobbyists, dry goods, equipment manufacturers, food providers, shippers, trade shows, hotels and restaurants. In an already precarious economy do we really want to create even more economic hardship?

In closing, as a herpetology enthusiast and hopeful future breeder I again implore you to vote NO to this proposed bill. I know that a snake is not the ideal perfect pet for everyone but not everyone is a dog or cat person either. There are millions of us who love these reptiles and want to continue to enjoy them and all they have to offer.

Very Respectfully,
NAME

IMO that is how you communicate with these people. No I don't have very many statistics in there but I do have a reliable source and a quote. Rationalizing also plays a good part. I did say unfair, but that is much different than using the word ignorant. I'm not trying to pick on anyone in particular, I just saw that word in a post and yes it does stick out. Hopefully what I wrote can be expanded on and improved. I know I'm not the greatest writer in the world and what I wrote up there needs a bunch of editing and probably some more good information but its a start.

---

But see, Scotty, the thing is, that paragraph was only the last paragraph of a very eloquent, well thought-out appeal to Senator Nelson to remove S373 from the Senate floor. And it was paraphrased at that - because, I don't have a copy of the letter I sent! I wish I would have saved the letter so I can post a copy of it here. But, alas, I did not expect to be defending it to you guys! The letter is riddled with facts about the Ball Python - not as an industry, but as a species - gathered from my son's Ball Python books. I touched on why experts consider Ball Pythons a good starter pet and how my 7 and 5 year old sons have benefited from ball python ownership as opposed to their Bichon Frise dog and my African Grey parrot. It attempts to predict the impact a Ball Python will have on the vulnerable and near threatened Floridian fauna like the Key Largo Wood Rat as opposed to the impact of habitat loss from expanding human development (the main reason why Sen Nelson wanted a Federal ban is because Burmese Pythons are killing vulnerable fauna in the Everglades). It also outlines the differences between the Ball Python and the Brown Tree Snake in Guam. And it also provides key differences between a Burmese Python and a Ball Python and their prey items. I had at least 6 books open plus the internet search engines running at full power to make sure I was accurate. Towards the end, I made special mention of the current permit process instituted by the State of Florida on Jan 1, 2008 to regulate ownership of certain species of pythons, anacondas, and nile monitors. This was a successful compromise between FFWCC and the Florida Herp Society and can be used as a template for a Federal bill. The letter did not touch on the ball python trade as an industry because I meant to focus on the fact that not all pythons are created equal and that a sweeping ban is, in fact,... here we go... ready?... ignorant of the existence of Ball Pythons. Okay, so revise the last statement, take out ignorant, and replace with a different word - make sure you keep the meaning of the sentence - and send to your senator. But, in the whole scheme of things, with all that I presented in the letter, do you really think the use of the word ignorant matters one bit? I mean, of course, if the letter would have said, "Your introduction of this preposterous bill is indicative of your ignorance" regardless of the professionalism of the first 10 paragraphs... yeah, I would see that as a big problem. 'Nuff said.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ScottyDsntKnow

I feel the same way as you do personally. HOWEVER, this guy wrote the bill and you calling it ignorant is calling him ignorant by association. I know you didn't mean it that way but it WILL be taken that way. Even using the word uninformed would be iffy here. I know its ridiculous but that's just how it is. I personally would have used an example such as:

Honorable Sir or Ma'am,

I write to you to ask that you please consider voting NO to S373 which would impose a federal trading ban on all species of pythons and boa constrictors. While I understand your concern about the feral population of Burmese Pythons in the Everglades and possible propagation of a non-native species to other areas, this bill does not address this issue itself, nor does it provide a solution for removal of these animals.

The Burmese Python issue is a South Florida issue not a national one. There is no credible evidence to show that these animals can exist north of Lake Okeechobee. Out of all the Pythons and Boas imported into the US over the last 50 years, only Burmese Pythons have ever established a breeding wild colony and only in South Florida. No evidence exists anywhere to suggest that banning all Pythons will have any positive impact on the effected area in the southern tip of Florida as it does nothing to address the issue that these animals are already living there. Banning the interstate trade of all pythons does nothing to solve this. To the contrary, it will destroy thousands of small businesses and further damage and already fragile economy.

While some may not consider a snake a pet, the herpetological(sp?) industy is growing by leaps and bounds. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Assn. 2007-2008 pet owners’ survey, the total number of reptiles owned in the United States increased 22 percent since the survey was taken two years ago, from 11 million to 13.4 million. In response, pet manufacturing companies, supply companies and retailers everywhere are moving to meet the demand.

“The reptile market is a growing one,” says Kevin Wai, managing director of AquaTerra International in Los Angeles. “As the aquarium industry is becoming saturated with products, manufacturers are now turning toward the reptile industry. They see the growth potential and the rising popularity of reptiles as pets and now they want to get involved.”

The proposed trade ban of Pythons and Boa Constrictors will severely restrict or even halt the rapid growth of the industry as these two animals are some of the most popular reptile pets. Yes, it is true that larger constricting snakes such as the animals currently living in the Everglades can grow to up to 20 feet and are dangerous for inexperienced keepers. However, the most common constricting snakes kept as pets, Ball Pythons(python regius) top out at 6 feet with most specimens only ever reaching about 4 feet and the thickness of a 12 oz. aluminum beverage can. These animals are not dangerous. Even the larger Boa Constrictors are considered the most docile of all constricting snakes and great pets able to be handled by one person.

Banning the interstate trade of these animals because one species is a problem in an isolated area is unfair. Would an interstate trade ban of dogs be fair to the canine community because one breed became a problem in one area of one state? I would understand requiring permits for larger constricting snakes as they can be dangerous and should only be owned by experienced, trained keepers but a straight up ban is unnecessary for a small animal such as a ball python.

As mentioned previously, this ban will be financially devastating. It will destroy thousands of hardworking American families and small businesses. Not just the breeders and dealers who make most of their sales worldwide, but hobbyists, dry goods, equipment manufacturers, food providers, shippers, trade shows, hotels and restaurants. In an already precarious economy do we really want to create even more economic hardship?

In closing, as a herpetology enthusiast and hopeful future breeder I again implore you to vote NO to this proposed bill. I know that a snake is not the ideal perfect pet for everyone but not everyone is a dog or cat person either. There are millions of us who love these reptiles and want to continue to enjoy them and all they have to offer.

Very Respectfully,
NAME

IMO that is how you communicate with these people. No I don't have very many statistics in there but I do have a reliable source and a quote. Rationalizing also plays a good part. I did say unfair, but that is much different than using the word ignorant. I'm not trying to pick on anyone in particular, I just saw that word in a post and yes it does stick out. Hopefully what I wrote can be expanded on and improved. I know I'm not the greatest writer in the world and what I wrote up there needs a bunch of editing and probably some more good information but its a start.

---

Quote:

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Originally Posted by snakemastercanada

S373 has been moved into the Water & Wildlife Sub- Committee. It will be heard there and if given a favorable rating move back to the full Environment & Public Works Committee. (see contact info below)

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all of the cosponsors of this bill represent just over half of that committee

I forgot to mention that I also included in the letter that in our search for reliable, responsible captive breeders of quality ball pythons, we tend to either go to reptile shows or have them shipped from out-of-state and cited BHB Reptiles in Michigan and 8BallPythons in Maryland as prime examples.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by anatess

But see, Scotty, the thing is, that paragraph was only the last paragraph of a very eloquent, well thought-out appeal to Senator Nelson to remove S373 from the Senate floor. And it was paraphrased at that - because, I don't have a copy of the letter I sent! I wish I would have saved the letter so I can post a copy of it here. But, alas, I did not expect to be defending it to you guys! The letter is riddled with facts about the Ball Python - not as an industry, but as a species - gathered from my son's Ball Python books. I touched on why experts consider Ball Pythons a good starter pet and how my 7 and 5 year old sons have benefited from ball python ownership as opposed to their Bichon Frise dog and my African Grey parrot. It attempts to predict the impact a Ball Python will have on the vulnerable and near threatened Floridian fauna like the Key Largo Wood Rat as opposed to the impact of habitat loss from expanding human development (the main reason why Sen Nelson wanted a Federal ban is because Burmese Pythons are killing vulnerable fauna in the Everglades). It also outlines the differences between the Ball Python and the Brown Tree Snake in Guam. And it also provides key differences between a Burmese Python and a Ball Python and their prey items. I had at least 6 books open plus the internet search engines running at full power to make sure I was accurate. Towards the end, I made special mention of the current permit process instituted by the State of Florida on Jan 1, 2008 to regulate ownership of certain species of pythons, anacondas, and nile monitors. This was a successful compromise between FFWCC and the Florida Herp Society and can be used as a template for a Federal bill. The letter did not touch on the ball python trade as an industry because I meant to focus on the fact that not all pythons are created equal and that a sweeping ban is, in fact,... here we go... ready?... ignorant of the existence of Ball Pythons. Okay, so revise the last statement, take out ignorant, and replace with a different word - make sure you keep the meaning of the sentence - and send to your senator. But, in the whole scheme of things, with all that I presented in the letter, do you really think the use of the word ignorant matters one bit? I mean, of course, if the letter would have said, "Your introduction of this preposterous bill is indicative of your ignorance" regardless of the professionalism of the first 10 paragraphs... yeah, I would see that as a big problem. 'Nuff said.

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Has anyone read PIJAC's info on it all yet? http://www.pijac.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=505
They also have a survey for breeders/wholesalers/petstores etc to gather some info on the financial aspects of pythons in the pet trade.

If anything, their Pet Alert .pdf has lots of good information http://www.pijac.org/files/public/US_SB_373.pdf