ALERT: Diamondback Terrapin ESA Listing
More information at https://usark.org/26esa2/.
July 13, 2026: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) will post a notice in the Federal Register tomorrow (July 14) at
https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2026-14098/endangered-and-threatened-species-90-day-findings-for-10-species. The notice contains the 90-day findings for 10 species, including the Diamondback terrapin (
Malaclemys terrapin), which are proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act. This is separate from the NOAA alert we posted regarding this species. FWS has concluded that the submitted petition presents substantial information indicating that listing the diamondback terrapin as a threatened or endangered species may be warranted.
USARK is collecting information from breeders, keepers, and dealers concerning captive population numbers and production. Please email us at info@usark.org if you work with Diamondback terrapins.
Read the document at
https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/26-diamonback-terrapin-90-day-findings.pdf.
For inquiries regarding the Diamondback terrapin listing, contact: Matt Hinderliter, Regional Listing Coordinator, Northeast Regional Office, 601–720–6531,
matthew_hinderliter@fws.gov
Two important notes for members and merchandise shoppers
1. Renewal memberships require a follow-up email from you to receive your shirt(s);
2. PLEASE update your mailing addresses for all payment methods (credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, etc.).
Read below for reasons.
1. After you renew your USARK membership, you will receive an email with instructions for getting your shirt. Many members do not read this email, or it may end up in a SPAM folder. Unfortunately, we have had many issues with members failing to update their accounts, resulting in shirts being shipped to outdated addresses. After renewing your membership, simply follow the instructions in the email with the subject line "OPEN if you renewed your membership!" If you are a renewing member with questions, email us at
info@usark.org.
2. For any online payment method you use, be sure to update your mailing address if you move. These online payment methods often autofill your address, which may be obsolete. Many customers who visit our shop have not noticed this autofill and get upset with us when their shipments go to the wrong address, even though the wrong address was entered with their order. Be sure your address is correct for any orders with us or any other online purchase.
Thank you to all members and USARK merchandise buyers for your support and understanding.
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www.usark.org/shop.
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ALERT: ESA Listing for Southern Hognose
UPDATE 6/8/26: If you work with this species, please email
info@usark.org. The new comment period has opened and ends on July 8, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST. The public meeting will be held virtually (online) on June 25.
UPDATE 6/5/26: This update will be posted in the Federal Register on June 8. FWS is reopening the comment period for 30 days on the proposed rule to list the southern hognose snake (
Heterodon simus) as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule.
Public hearing: On June 25, 2026, FWS will hold a public hearing on the proposed rule from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The public hearing will allow an opportunity to present verbal testimony.
Full details, meeting registration link, and more at
https://usark.org/25esa3/.
ALERT: California Rattlesnakes
The California Fish and Game Commission will discuss regulations on commercial use and possession of native rattlesnakes at its August 12-13 meeting. This would include rattlesnake-avoidance training for dogs (which is a popular course), educational outreach programs, as well as all other businesses and possession.
More details at
https://usark.org/26ca/.
ALERT: Rhode Island
UPDATE: Tegus were removed from this rule change. Thank you to the dedicated herpetoculturists who spoke at the hearing and emailed DEM. UPDATE 5/12/26: The hearing was tonight. Twelve dedicated herpetoculturists attended, and five spoke in opposition to the proposal. No one appeared in support. The speakers did a tremendous job representing responsible herpetoculturists. Phil Goss was there to represent USARK and our members. While this is a permitting system, the requirements are extremely burdensome and completely unfair to current owners. It could prove to be a de facto ban if permits are not issued for any reason at the agency's discretion. The agency representatives tonight were very receptive, and we appreciate their time, but they were with a separate department from that overseeing these permits. Comments are allowed until May 20.
Full details at
https://usark.org/26ri/.
ALERT: Pennington County, SDUPDATE: 4/21/26: The Commissioners voted not to pass the broad ban on “exotic” and undomesticated animals. Thank you to all local residents and experts who relayed their opposition and education on this matter.
Pennington County in South Dakota has proposed a ban on all non-domesticated animals. This would ban most species kept as pets, including aquarium fish, parrots, reptiles, amphibians, hedgehogs, and more. The ordinance also specifically bans any “nondomestic animal.” While this extreme ban may not be the intent, the language used bans most animals. This has a final vote on April 21, so local residents need to contact officials immediately and, if possible, attend the meeting.
Meeting: Tuesday, April 21 at 9:00 AM, Commission Chambers in the County Administration Building, 900 Concourse Drive, Rapid City, SD
Get more details and email information at https://usark.org/26sd/.
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