Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) is pleased to list those organizations and institutions that have partnered with us for the 2013 Year of the Snake campaign in an effort to engage everyone in snake conservation efforts and to expand the reach of this campaign so that together we may educate the broader public about the importance of snakes. Year of the Snake partners include any group that would like to join in our 2013 campaign to advance snake conservation, education, or research.
Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC)
PARC is an inclusive partnership dedicated to the conservation of reptiles and amphibians and their habitats. Members come from all walks of life, and this diversity of membership makes PARC the most comprehensive conservation effort ever undertaken for amphibians and reptiles.
The Orianne Society
The Orianne Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of imperiled snakes; an important groups of wildlife that are largely overlooked and the conservation of which is underfunded. The Orianne Society has used a multifaceted approach, including a Land Management and Protection Program, a Captive Breeding and Reintroduction Program, an applied Conservation Science Program, and an Education Outreach Program all aimed towards conserving flagship snake species across the United States and abroad. We use science to inform our on-the-ground conservation work, to monitor species populations and to measure the impact our efforts are having on the conservation of these species and their habitats.
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports conservation of amphibians and reptiles. Our mission is to promote amphibian and reptile conservation, as well as efforts that support the mission of Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) and their goals
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust
The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust is the leading UK charity committed to conserving amphibians and reptiles and saving the disappearing habitats on which they depend. Our vision sees amphibians and reptiles thriving in their natural habitats, and a society inspired and committed to their conservation.
The Association of Reptilian & Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV)
ARAV is advancing reptilian and amphibian medicine, surgery and conservation worldwide. The ARAV is an international professional organization with the goal of improving reptilian and amphibian husbandry and veterinary care through education and research. The ARAV promotes conservation and humane treatment of all reptilian and amphibian species through education, captive breeding, and habitat preservation.
Viper Specialist Group (VSG)
The VSG is an International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Specialist Group that acts as a global voice for viper conservation. Administered by officers and regional coordinators, the VSG uses a network of viper experts from across the world to research the needs for vipers and develop status assessments and conservation action plans for viper species.
Center for Biological Diversity
The Center for Biological Diversity believes that the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature — to the existence in our world of a vast diversity of wild animals and plants. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, they work to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. They do so through science, law and creative media, with a focus on protecting the lands, waters and climate that species need to survive. With a staff attorney and biologist dedicated to conservation of herpetofauna, the Center advocates for North American snakes by fighting to outlaw rattlesnake roundups and working to secure Endangered Species Act protection for the most imperiled snakes. Visit the website to get the latest updates on our campaign and learn how to become a biodiversity activist
The Center for Snake Conservation (CSC)
Center for Snake Conservation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of all snakes. The CSC’s mission is “to promote the conservation of snakes and their natural ecosystems and implement positive change in human attitudes towards snakes.” The Center for Snake Conservation implements understanding and proactive solutions to snake education, conflict/issue management and resolution, and the balance between the requirements of snakes and the needs of humans in our developing world.
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife Division (CT DEEP)
CT DEEP Wildlife Division is a state agency that has developed a number of programs to manage wildlife and contribute to diversified and healthy wildlife populations throughout the state. The CT DEEP Wildlife Division is engaged in a comprehensive outreach and education effort to make the public more aware of the wildlife that can be found throughout the state. In 2013, the CT DEEP Wildlife Division also has made a commitment to inform Connecticut residents about the state’s 14 native snake species through monthly press releases, snake fact sheets, and various articles in the agency’s bimonthly magazine, Connecticut Wildlife, and related events.
The Copperhead Institute
The Copperhead Institute is governed by Directors and a Scientific Advisory Panel. The mission of The Copperhead Institute is to develop and conduct original field- and laboratory based scientific research on the ecology and evolutionary biology of snakes; to disseminate our findings to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications (e.g., journals, book chapters) and presentations at scientific meetings; to promote the public conservation of snakes through publication of popular articles and educational materials, and through informal and formal educational presentations; and to support the intellectual growth and research goals of graduate and undergraduate students in pursuing a research career.
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Herpetologie und Terrarienkunde e.V. (DGHT)
DGHT (meaning German Society for Herpetology and Herpetoculture) was founded in 1964 as a successor of the group called “Salamander” which originates from the year 1918. As the name implies, the DGHT covers non-professionals and professionals in herpetology and herpetoculture within a single organization, thus giving our society its particular strength. Our members work with amphibians and reptiles as it concerns research and husbandry, as well as conservation of species and their habitats. The society’s mission is to contribute to both research on amphibians and reptiles and captive keeping and breeding. DGHT is strongly engaged in herpetological conservation and is accredited by the German Federal Nature Conservation Act. The society runs three funds: the Wilhelm Peters Fund dedicated to herpetological research, the Hans Schiemenz Fund attributed to assessing and protecting natural populations of amphibians and reptiles, and, in collaboration with the Zoological Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations (www.zgap.de), a fund supporting conservation activities to protect threatened amphibian and reptile species.
The Edmonton Reptile and Amphibian Society
The Edmonton Reptile and Amphibian Society has ongoing efforts to protect and secure a local gartersnake hibernaculum that is being “loved to death” by its popularity and high traffic of visitors. The red sided gartersnake is the species utilizing the den. Efforts have previously been limited to an educational sign and personal discussions with people met at the den. We have more recently (2012) began using trail cameras to document the traffic and threats to the den. Vehicles are being driven into the area undoubtably trampling snakes. People are trampling the densite which consists of small inapparent openings amongst a gravel heavy substrate. Natural owl predation has been surprisingly high with regular visits. In response to what we have found, multiple “No ATV” signs, and “No Hunting” signs have been hung along the highway frontage. Future work will include building gates across access points, building better fencing if it becomes necessary, and doing a proper snake count to monitor population decline (a count was done in ~1999). Future goals depend on the landowner but include developing the area as a wildlife preserve with limited access that allows people the educational opportunity of observing the hibernaculum, but in a safe manner for the snakes.
Edmonton Valley Zoo
Nestled on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, the Edmonton Valley Zoo is a small, accredited and intimate zoo that provides authentic and engaging animal experiences. The Edmonton Valley Zoo team is passionate about working to preserve the natural world and promoting environmental responsibility. Zoo staff work with international organizations on ethical and strategic conservation projects – either actively raising animals in species survival programs or raising money and awareness – to support initiatives in other parts of the world. The Edmonton Valley Zoo houses 9 different species of snakes including local and exotic species. Rover, our resident Children’s Python will be competing in the Edmonton Valley Zoo’s Race for Animal of the Year. This race is a fictitious race where 4 animals are pitted against each other for a race of donations! All the money raised for Rover will be going to PARC, Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy and Year of the Snake for their efforts in improving reptile and amphibian habitats!
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
The mission of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is to sustain, enhance, protect and conserve Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices.
Hong Kong Society of Herpetology (English)
The Hong Kong Society of Herpetology Foundation was established in 2007. It is the first and only registered charitable organization in Hong Kong related to Amphibians and Reptiles. Our mission is to prevent cruelty to reptiles and amphibians through education, to increase the public’s knowledge of amphibians and reptiles through our website and various activities, such as exhibitions and seminars, to promote the conservation of local species of reptiles and amphibians and their natural habitats so that the public can appreciate the ecological value of the local species, to promote public awareness of the crisis of endangered species;, to carry out research and study on local amphibians and reptiles whilst emphasizing the importance of preservation of these animals and the environment, and to do all such other lawful things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objectives.
Juniata Valley Audubon Society (JVAS)
JVAS is a regional conservation organization in southcentral Pennsylvania supports the advancement of snake conservation, education, or research. Chartered in 1969 as a chapter of the National Audubon Society, the JVAS continues to be dedicated to the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the Earth’s biological diversity. JVAS accomplishes its mission through advocacy, science, land stewardship, and education — working directly with Audubon Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania state office of the National Audubon Society. The territory of the JVAS comprises all of Blair and Bedford Counties in south-central Pennsylvania and portions of adjacent counties. With more than 600 members, the JVAS is one of the state’s 21 Audubon chapters. All are welcome to join us at our program meetings or field trips.
Life Is Short But Snakes Are Long
Andrew Durso is a PhD student at Utah State University, where he studies the behavior, physiology, and ecology of toxin-resistant snakes. The many fascinating aspects of snake natural history have led Andrew to research this topic, which is quite narrow compared to his interest in snake ecology as a whole. Additionally, his work brings him into frequent contact with the serious need for snake conservation, which really requires holistic conservation of ecosystem structure and function, on which human society depends. Andrew believes that we can only accomplish this goal through education, and that is partly why he decided to publish this blog. The title is a quote by David Quammen, one of the best science writers around.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
The Department of Natural Resources leads Maryland in securing a sustainable future for our environment, society, and economy by preserving, protecting, restoring, and enhancing the State’s natural resources.
Respect the Snake
Respect The Snake is dedicated to educating people about the Lake Erie Water Snake (often called LEWS) through good scientific research and continued public outreach. Our goal is not necessarily to convert the masses into ‘snake lovers’, but rather to encourage and promote mutual respect for peaceful co-existence.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC)
It is the Mission of NYDEC to conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being.
North Carolina Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (NCPARC)
The Mission of NCPARC is to conserve amphibians, reptiles and their habitats as integral parts of North Carolina’s ecosystems and culture through proactive and coordinated public/private partnerships.
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC)
Since its inception in 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) has been dedicated to the wise-use, conservation, and management of the state’s fish and wildlife resources. The WRC consists of wildlife and fisheries biologists, wildlife enforcement officers, educators, engineers, and administrative staff in nine districts across the state.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW)
The NDOW mission is to protect, preserve, manage and restore wildlife and its habitat for its aesthetic, scientific, educational, recreational, and economic benefit to citizens of Nevada and the United States, and to promote the safety of persons using vessels on the waters of this state. There are 31 snake species (subspecies included) native to Nevada, making it a great place to celebrate Year of the Snake!
Research for Reptiles
Research 4 Reptiles’ mission is to provide challenging, hands-on, field-based programs for participants ages 12 years to adult to inspire enthusiasm for and understanding of native Illinois reptile and amphibian species. Our educational programs are unique in that they allow participants to assist in ongoing herpetological research studies in a small group setting and to learn using critical inquiry methods. All programs emphasize the importance of herpetological species’ conservation and environmental protection.
Societas Herpetologica Slovenica
The Societas Herpetologica Slovenica is a non-profit organization with the general aims of study and protection of amphibians and reptiles in Slovenia as well as education and popularization of these animal groups in the professional and general public. Regarding snakes, our research activities include field reptile surveys to determine species distributional ranges for the future Atlas of reptiles of Slovenia. Our members also give support to students involved in individual studies on the ecology of snakes. We organize and give lectures for general public, carry out workshops for school children of different age and participate as mentors on school or student field camps.
The Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas Project
The Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas collects and disseminates data needed to make informed recommendations regarding the state status, state rank, and conservation of Vermont’s reptiles and amphibians. With the help of volunteers, collaborations with conservation organizations, and staff members, we are continuing to collect information and broaden our knowledge base regarding the natural history, distribution, and effective conservation of Vermont’s Reptiles and Amphibians. The ultimate goal of the Atlas is to gather and disseminate the data that are needed on the reptiles and amphibians of Vermont in a way that involves and informs Vermont individuals and organizations so that they can become more informed and effective stewards of wildlife habitat.
The Virginia Herpetological Society (VHS)
Virginia Herpetological Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports scientific research and conservation of our native reptiles, amphibians and their associated habitat. Public education is included as one of our primary goals. Much of our public educational material regarding snakes can be found on our website.
The Wandering Herpetologist (TWH)
TWH is dedicated to providing news, facts, and educational information about amphibians and reptiles. TWH believes in conservation through education. Our goal is to dispel misplaced fears and myths about amphibians and reptiles and to encourage people to learn more about these fascinating organisms.
The Wildlife Center of Virginia
The Wildlife Center of Virginia is a non-profit hospital for native wildlife, with the mission of teaching the world to care about and to care for wildlife and the environment. Founded in 1982, the Wildlife Center has provided quality health care, often on an emergency basis, to more than 60,000 sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals. As a teaching hospital, the Center offers a variety of hands-on training opportunities in veterinary medicine and wildlife rehabilitation.
The Wildlife Society
The Wildlife Society was founded in 1937 and is a non-profit scientific and educational association of nearly 11,000 professional wildlife biologists and managers, dedicated to excellence in wildlife stewardship through science and education. Our mission is to represent and serve the professional community of scientists, managers, educators, technicians, planners, and others who work actively to study, manage, and conserve wildlife and its habitats worldwide.
Zoo Atlanta
We envision a world in which humankind values, protects and preserves the diversity of species on Earth. We strive to inspire the citizens of Atlanta and Georgia and all visitors to the Zoo to value wildlife on Earth and to help safeguard existing species through conservation. We do this by providing an informative, educational, and engaging experience, being respectful and responsible stewards of the animals and the physical and financial assets entrusted to us, and engaging in related conservation activities and research. We take personal responsibility for the animals in our care as well as all the resources we use. We are honest, fair, reliable and sincere. We are trustworthy and value the trust of our community. We maintain an environment of trust, openness, respect and transparency to maximize the creativity and productivity of our organization. We will recruit and support employees and volunteers with diverse perspectives and talents that result in a strong, focused and innovative organization. We create an enriching and welcoming atmosphere for all members and guests. We provide courteous and helpful attention to ensure they have a wonderful experience each time they visit.
PARC is an all-inclusive partnership. PARC encourages participation and involvement with the partnership by any agency, individual, or group that is engaged in amphibian and reptile population or habitat conservation. However, this involvement doesn’t imply that PARC partners endorse all PARC activities, nor does it imply that PARC supports or endorses all activities that partner agencies, individuals or groups undertake. In particular, PARC as a partnership, does not engage in political advocacy given that its membership includes governmental agencies, and as such, will not, as a partnership, support or endorse such activities. However, agencies, individuals or groups that are not restricted from such participation and happen to be affiliated with PARC may participate in these activities as they wish, as long as they do not suggest that they are conducting such activities under the auspices of PARC.