Re: Hey Others in MA!

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Posted by Matthew W. on March 07, 2003 at 09:19:39:

In Reply to: Re: Hey Others in MA! posted by bast on March 07, 2003 at 06:33:27:

Brian,

I read the state statute last night,M.G.L. CHAPTER 131 Sections 23 and 25, which apply to keeping reptiles. You are indeed correct that the language of the law prohibits the propagation, dealing, etc., of all fish, birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians not on the exemption list to be created by the Director of the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. However, on this exemption list are also those animals specifically prohibited (i.e. All chameleons, Gila Monster and Beaded Lizard, and all Monitors). Under the list of Iguanid Lizards Cyclura are not listed as exempt or prohibited. Now, under the language of the law I guess that makes them illegal without a permit but at the same time since they are not specifically listed and they meet the standard to be on the exemption list:

(a) Accidental release of the fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, or mammal will not result in an adverse effect on the ecology of the state.
(b) The animal in captivity, or escaped therefrom, poses no substantial danger to humans, either by injury or disease.
(c) Proper care of the animal is no more demanding in any major respect than proper care of domestic animals.
(d) Trade in the fish, bird, mammal, reptile or amphibian has no significant adverse effect on the wild population of such animal in any of its native habitats

perhaps they were just not considered for either status yet. I mean if Ctenosaurus and Green Iguanas are exempt why shouldn't Cyclura also be exempt (at the very least human captive created hybrids anyway). They can't have covered every species of reptile on that short list. If Cyclura were specifically prohibited like other species are I would imagine they would list them.

I guess my question to you was, do you have a list that has Cyclura on it. I might try getting in touch with Mass Wildlife and ask them specifically.

~Matthew

P.S.: That's great to hear about your Tegu. I'm glad Dr. Innis worked out for you!

:The way the Mass regs are written if wierd. Basicly all herps are illegal with some excemptions. You are allowed to have the species on the excemptions list. A copy of the excemptions list can be obtained free of charge by requesting one from Mass Wildlife. You can do this through the e-mail on their website.

:Brian

:PS: The tegu is doing great now! Thanks for asking.
:

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Re: Hey Others in MA! bast 03/07/03 (0)