Conservation Communications - Final Edition - Issue 13 Winter 2021 - Yuck Boys Live
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The Member Magazine of The Orianne Society Issue 13 • Winter 2021
Indigomagazine
Conservation
Communications
Final Edition
Indigomagazine
STAFF
Christopher Jenkins
Chief Executive Officer
Gary Baldaeus
Chief Financial Officer
Heidi Hall
Development Director
Houston Chandler
Director of Science
Ben Stegenga
Research Assistant
Kiley Briggs
32
Northeast Turtle Conservation Coordinator
William Rodriguez
Communications Coordinator
Talking Turtles Charli Thompson
Program Manager
BOARD
Dr. Bob Beard
Mr. Matt Bostock
Mr. Garth Bray
Mr. Ross Caphton
Mrs. Jane Fraser
Dr. Thomas McKee
8 14
Dr. Lloyd Newberry
Mr. Merritt Paulson
contributors
Mr. Vance Serchuk
Mr. Nat Turner
Conservation Snake Stories Burner Bob Going Big Calvin Anthony-Duscheid Mark Mandica
Mr. Jack Whalen
Rebecca Behrens Jessica McGuire
Dr. Christopher Jenkins – CEO
Julie Calendrella Mily Oseid
Mr. Gary Baldaeus – Treasurer
Mrs. Heidi Hall - SecretaryTristan Rollins
Natalie Dragnev
Amanda Duffus Dena Schertzer
cONTRIBUTORS
Liza Goss Joe Williams
Madeline Keep Reid Williams
Katie Madden
Houston Chandler - Heidi Hall -
issue
Linda Gette - Melissa Amarello - Shan
20 28
Cammack - Reese Thompson - Chris
Indigo
JenkinsMagazine Issue -4,Matthew
- Steven Allain Fall 2015
Indigo
KammMagazine
- MontyisMorris
the member
- Brycemagazine
Wade - of
The Orianne Society and is produced,
Bryanna Zachary - Jason Berard - Kevin designed
and edited by the staff of The Orianne Society.
Snake Talk The Challenges of Reptile Hutcheson - Olivia Thomas - Parker
Conservation in Great Britain Gibbons - Jasmine Williamson - Gina
Aderholdt
The Orianne Society
@OrianneSociety
11 Old Fruit Stand Lane, Tiger, GA 30576
706-224-1359
4 6 42 info@oriannesociety.org
www.OrianneSociety.org
Species Spotlight Member Spotlight Field Photos @OrianneSociety
2 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021
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I am pleased to announce that the Orianne
message
Society is continuing to stay on the cutting
edge of Conservation Communications. I
can be a bit of a dinosaur when it comes
to understanding technology; while I
cannot operate much of it, I am very
from our
CEO
aware of how it is changing, and how
important it is for us to continue being
the leading producer of quality content
on reptile and amphibian research and
conservation. Thus, in 2021 we are going
to begin the process of transitioning our
communications. We will be increasing
the amount of digital content, bringing
it to you more frequently, and doing less
‘brick and mortar’ type communication.
When I say more digital content, you
can expect more blogs, video content on
our YouTube channel, podcasts, online
seminars, and general social media posts.
Much of this content will be focused
in certain areas. For example, the Snake
Talk Podcast (highlighted in this edition)
is going to be expanding beyond just the accustomed to getting the magazine as So I have mixed feelings about writing
podcast to include an online seminar one of the perks for supporting Orianne, my last letter for Indigo Magazine. While
series, videography, and social media but we hope you look forward to our plan our magazine has been a place where we
posts focused on snakes generally, as to include new and exciting membership showcase our efforts, the work of our
well as Southern Appalachian Timber perks. partners and members, and the wonder that
Rattlesnakes and Adventure Snake Travel. is the amazing reptiles and amphibians we
We also plan on developing content Another important Communications focus on, it is of the utmost importance
series in other areas, such as Natural transition for us, is that in addition for our Communications to stay at the
History, Interpreting Science, and Habitat to producing content with the idea forefront of time and technology. We
Restoration and Management. of entertainment in mind, we will be will continue to showcase all of these
developing our content to strategically things within the digital realm and I
When I say less ‘brick and mortar’ help in our mission of reptile and am confident that these transitions will
content, I mean fewer in-person events amphibian conservation. For example, improve our efforts to help reptiles and
and presentations and the discontinuation the development of the Snake Talk amphibians around the world.
of the Indigo Magazine. Some people Podcast and expansion to other forms of
may be sad at this prospect, but the truth media is specifically oriented at raising the Sincerely,
is, online resources will allow us to reach general public’s understanding of snakes.
a far larger and broader audience. We can I often say that snakes are the most
also provide you much more information misunderstood and persecuted groups
on reptiles and amphibians, and provide it of animals on the planet. I realized long
with much more frequency. For example, ago that the persecution comes from Dr. Christopher Jenkins, CEO
information you would receive a few misunderstanding, and thus, perhaps, the The Orianne Society
times a year in our magazine will be going greatest thing we can do for snakes is raise
out daily. We recognize that members are awareness.
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SPECIES spotlight
by Houston Chandler
Salamanders in the Virginia Mountains
Long-tailed Salamander. Credit: Houston Chandler
The Appalachian Mountains are well-known for their salamander diversity and with good reason. There is no other landscape
on the planet that harbors more species of salamanders than this old mountain range that stretches along most of the eastern
United States. In Virginia, the Appalachian Mountains run along the western side of the state, and this region is characterized by
large expanses of protected public lands. Generally wet, cool weather make it a perfect region for salamanders, and the complex
landscape has driven the speciation of salamanders in the region. Indeed, new species are still being described even within the last
2–3 years, thanks to advances in genetic analyses. The Virginia Mountains are a salamander aficionados dream, and it is truly hard
to venture into the Jefferson National Forest or Shenandoah National Park without stumbling upon some variety of salamander.
The recent descriptions of new species have increased the number of salamander species that can be found in the Virginia
Mountains to approximately 50. This number is likely to continue to rise as we gain a better understanding of long-term evolutionary
processes within the region. The species found here include some of the prettiest in the entire United States, especially the Red
Salamander (Pseudotriton ruber) and Yonahlossee Salamander (Plethodon yonahlossee). Even the humble Red-backed Salamander
(Plethodon cinereus), one of the most abundant animals in the eastern U.S., can be quite visually striking on some occasions. The
region is also home to one of the largest salamander species in the world, the Eastern Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis).
Hellbenders inhabit cold, fast flowing streams and rivers and depend on high water quality for their survival. Finally, there are several
examples of endemic salamander species whose entire range is restricted to one or just a few mountaintops. These species are
4 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021
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50 1 1
Number of salamander Number of giant Number of Virginia
species found in the salamander species in the salamanders on the US
Virginia Mountains United States. Endangered Species List -
Plethodon shenandoah
commonly imperiled (the Shenandoah Salamander, Plethodon shenandoah, is listed as federally Endangered) and face an uncertain
future in a changing world. The diversity of salamander communities in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, which is still
being uncovered today, speaks to the importance of conserving natural landscapes, especially as the threats facing these species
reach unprecedented levels.
Above: Spotted Salamander. Below: Weller’s Salamander. Above: Red-backed Salamanders. Below: Red Salamander.
Credit: Houston Chandler Credit: Houston Chandler
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MEMBER spotlight
by Heidi Hall and Linda Gette
LINDA GETTE
Courtesy: Linda Gette
We sat down with long-time member, Linda basement. Pretty scary, as, like most people, I seemed to be
Gette to learn more about her passion for afraid of snakes, but I was fascinated, too. I am not afraid
reptiles and amphibians, and what compelled anymore, but still fascinated! (The snake was not harmed, just
her to support The Orianne Society. This is relocated out of doors.)
what we learned...
From Linda Gette: Years later I discovered a vernal pool on my land, and on one
“My first experience involving reptiles was when, as a young cold, rainy night in spring found my woods and pond full of
child, I found a Black Ratsnake crawling on the wall of our migrating Spotted Salamanders. What a thrill! The pool also
6 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021
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had Wood Frogs, Green Frogs and Jefferson Salamanders. In have a tour. Another huge thrill!
my yard I also found Pickerel and Leopard frogs, and nearby
there were Spotted, Painted, Snapping and Wood Turtles. I think if I HAD to pick one favorite herp, it would have to
Once I was getting in firewood and saw an “earthworm”…but be the Eastern Indigo. Such a beautiful, calm creature! I am
then it stood up! It wasn’t an earthworm but a Red-backed so thankful for the work you do to protect them and to try
Salamander…my first salamander! Since I didn’t know anyone to increase their numbers. I have enjoyed being a member
who knew about these things, I struggled to figure out this since that encounter in 2017. I love following your great
stuff out with my Peterson guides! work through the newsletter and your YouTube videos. I
enjoyed attending Places You’ve Never Herped last year, too,
In the past few years I have lucked into several opportunities but haven’t been able to do another Indigo Days because of
to work with knowledgeable herp folks. As a volunteer with scheduling conflicts. But I haven’t given up!
the Department of Wildlife Resources and the National Park
Service in Virginia I have worked on Bog Turtle surveys for the Last year I was able to visit Snake Road in Illinois for a tour
last 8ish years. As a volunteer at Archbold Biological Station in with the Illinois State Herpetologist — once in spring and once
Florida for the past 6 years I’ve helped with Gopher Tortoise in fall — when they close the forest road to protect herps on
tracking and even got to help work on a hatchling study! In my migration. That was a good time. Where I live now there is a
time there I’ve encountered amphiumas, skinks, a coachwhip meadow, and I’ve put out some tin. I have repeatedly found 3
and indigos. Still no Coral Snake; I seem to just miss them! socially distanced Garter Snakes under it. And there is a huge
Black Ratsnake eating some of the birds and eggs in my yard. I
Then in 2017, up popped The Orianne Society on my can see he has not missed many meals!!”
Facebook page (thank you, FB)! You were announcing Indigo
Days, and I got to go! What a thrill! The people were so great, ***
we saw lots of indigos, and I even got to help measure one!
And I made several friends that I’ve kept in touch with since Linda, we can’t thank you enough for your support and we
then, though most are from Georgia, so I don’t see them often. look forward to seeing you on many more Orianne events!
After the event, I was able to visit your breeding facility and
Courtesy: Linda Gette
Credit: Linda Gette
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021 7
Indigomagazine
Pipsqueak the Gophersnake shows kids how wonderful and friendly snakes are. Credit: Jeff Smith.
Conservation
Snake Stories Melissa Amarello - Advocates for Snake Preservation
Like me, you probably grew up hearing And snakes need our help. They haven’t Advocates for Snake Preservation is
stories about snakes, stories that rarely escaped the worldwide extinction Changing the Narrative about Snakes
had nice things to say about them. From crisis; climate chaos, habitat loss, and Just before founding Advocates for Snake
the biblical tale of the Garden of Eden exploitation threaten many snakes. Like Preservation (ASP), Jeff and I worked
to the modern story of Harry Potter, all native wildlife, snakes are an important at a nature preserve full of snakes. Most
snakes are usually portrayed as deceitful part of our community and a vibrant, visitors came for birds or butterflies, but
and villainous. Real snakes prefer to functioning planet. But negative attitudes left with a new appreciation for snakes.
escape our notice, so myths and fables about snakes may be the biggest barrier We introduced a couple who “hoped
supply what most people know about to their conservation – it is difficult to gain not to see any snakes during their visit”
them. Consequently, misunderstanding public support when you aren’t perceived as cute to Porter, one of our resident Western
and fear eclipse appreciation of these and cuddly.. Black-Tailed Rattlesnakes, and shared
mysterious and intriguing animals. her story with them. They returned
from their hike excited to share photos
8 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021
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of the “cute snake” they spotted and decisions in Massachusetts and set a with lead — a serious threat to wildlife
wanted to learn more. A scout leader dangerous precedent for other states. and public health — for any reason.
who routinely killed any rattlesnake
that showed up in his yard decided to We formed a coalition with local Together with a diverse coalition of local,
reconsider his behavior after learning biologists and conservationists, rallied national, and international groups, we
from us that rattlesnakes take care of our supporters, and reached out to local urged the Arizona legislature to reject
their kids. Stories engage people in a way that media to demonstrate public support this irresponsible legislation, and they
simply stating facts and figures do not. for the Timber Rattlesnake project. And did! One of the swing voters in the
we won. The legislature got our message Senate actually read a letter from one of
In 2014, we founded ASP to promote loud and clear: science, not politics, our supporters because it inspired her
Compassionate Conservation and should drive conservation. The legislation to vote against this reckless legislation.
coexistence with snakes by illustrating did not pass and MDFW continues to Don’t ever think that your voice doesn’t
cool snake behaviors with multimedia use the best available science to inform matter because a single letter can make
stories. While education and changing conservation and preserve wildlife. a difference and stop a bill that seemed
attitudes are the heart of ASP’s work, certain to pass.
we also take action and advocate on Killing the Arizona Snake-Shooting Bill
issues that can’t wait for long-term HB2022 was introduced in the 2017 Stopping Snake Slaughter at Rattlesnake
strategy and continue our research to Arizona legislature to change Shannon’s Roundups
provide a clearer picture of what snakes Law, a prohibition on shooting guns In March 2015, I traveled to a place I
are really like. within city limits. Under the proposed swore I’d never go, to an event I didn’t
amendment, it would have been legal think I could bear to see. But Jo-Anne
Keeping Wildlife Management Science- to shoot with “pellets that are 1.3 of We Animals Media and I decided it
Based millimeters or less in diameter and that was important to bear witness to and
Snakes are threatened by the same issues are loaded in a rimfire cartridge with document the Sweetwater Rattlesnake
that affect all wildlife, but negative a caliber that does not exceed twenty- Roundup.
attitudes may be the biggest barrier to two hundredths of an inch.” This
their conservation because they impede irresponsible legislation threatened public So there I stood at the pit, smelling
our ability to address other threats. safety by allowing shooting in populated the fear and hearing the screams* of
areas and encouraging people to thousands of rattlesnakes about to be
That is why we founded ASP. But that approach potentially dangerous animals. slaughtered for entertainment and profit.
situation was something we’d only As I looked into the eyes of one male
read about; we hadn’t actually seen a There are safer and more effective ways to resolve Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnake,
conservation project halted for this wildlife conflicts than shooting in populated filled with blood from rough handling, I
reason, until we got a call for help about areas. This legislation could have resulted promised him that we would fight to stop
a situation in Massachusetts. in more snakebites since it encouraged snake slaughter at rattlesnake roundups.
people to approach venomous snakes And we have.
As part of their comprehensive Timber rather than leave them alone. Most bites
Rattlesnake conservation program, the happen when handling or attempting to We changed the way rattlesnake roundups
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries kill snakes; even snakes thought to be were discussed by mainstream media.
and Wildlife (MDFW) proposed dead have bitten when handled or picked- Each year they had promoted rattlesnake
introducing an experimental population up. The safest course of action when roundups as folksy, family-friendly fun,
on Mount Zion Island in the Quabbin a venomous snake is spotted is to walk repeating propaganda from roundup
Reservoir. Opposition, based on the away and not approach the snake for any proponents verbatim: roundups are
usual fears and myths about snakes, reason. needed to ensure public safety; we would
inspired legislation that would require be overrun with rattlesnakes and police
this and any future conservation efforts The exception in HB2022 was not solely would be so busy answering snake calls
to be approved by the Massachusetts limited to snakes or other unwanted wild they would be unable to do real police
legislature. Typically, conservation animals, nor did it specify shooting only work; and paradoxically, roundups have
decisions are made by MDFW; this in cases of an imminent threat to public no effect on local snake populations
legislation would have had far-reaching safety. This law would have allowed (making it something of a mystery how
impacts on future conservation Arizona neighborhoods to be littered they can also alleviate their purported
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One of the many unwilling participants in the 2015 Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup, a male Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake.
Credit: Melissa Amarello
prevent rattlesnake overpopulation. Like
overpopulation problem). But none of
these claims are backed by science and
“Snakes are other wild animals, snake populations are
maintained by food availability, predation,
our campaign shed light on these issues. threatened by the and other natural processes like disease.
Unlike traditional game hunting, there is
Rattlesnake roundups are unsustainable same issues that no monitoring or reporting to regulate
events that foster disrespect for wildlife
with myth-riddled presentations that affect all wildlife, but the slaughter of snakes. Biologists and
conservationists believe that roundups
demonstrate risky handling techniques.
Fewer than five deaths in the U.S. each negative attitudes may have contributed to the current decline in
Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnakes,
year can be attributed to snakebite,
which includes people who refuse
be the biggest barrier which have been proposed for listing
under the Endangered Species Act.
treatment and those bitten by their exotic
pets. Interestingly, the USDA’s Cattle
to their conservation
The criticisms we raised in our campaign
Death Loss report has logged zero cattle because they impede were covered by more than 50 outlets.
deaths from snakes in more than two International, national, and Texas media
decades and ranchers report that snakes our ability to address considered the snakes’ side of the story
are not a threat to livestock, who usually
recover from snakebites, even without other threats.” for the first time and discussed the
controversy surrounding roundups.
treatment. Science does not support
claims that roundups are required to But the roundups persist, so our work
10 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
here is not done. “The Wall of Shame”
(taken by Jo-Anne during our 2015 trip)
was selected as a Highly Commended
image in the Natural History Museum’s
Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2019
Competition. When this exhibition
went on international tour, many people
learned about these horrific events for
the first time.
We’re also helping distribute A
Rattlesnake’s Story: The Story of a Young
Snake Who Discovers the Sad Truth About
Rattlesnake Roundups. This children’s
book was written by Grace Taracka and
illustrated by Hannah Germeau, two
high school students wanting to raise
awareness about rattlesnake roundups.
You can help by buying a copy of this
book for your local library – especially if
you live in roundup country.
*Rattlesnakes rattle when scared, their version
of screaming.
Sharing Individual Snakes’ Stories
Using stories to teach people about
snakes and make them more familiar and
less scary remains the heart of our work. TWA with one of her baby Arizona Black Rattlesnakes in 2019. Credit: Melissa Amarello.
Luckily our central Arizona field site
where we’ve worked for nearly a decade females (and the occasional male and
was the biggest, oldest mom that year
provides a seemingly unlimited number juvenile visitor), although sometimes
(and every year since). As large and black
of inspiring stories: rattlesnake friends, they ditch the group and find their own
as an adult male in that population, her
mommies defending their babies from private nest a day or two before giving
long, non-tapering rattle** indicated she
squirrels, and snake babysitters just to birth. Like most rattlesnakes, they care
stopped growing long ago.
name a few. Getting to know individual for their young for the first week or two
snakes for so many years can reveal (until the babies shed their skin for the
Like all rattlesnakes, Arizona Black
amazing things; here’s one example. first time) and may have the assistance
Rattlesnakes give birth to live young
(i.e., viviparous) and in this population of babysitters. We have also observed
Last summer we visited this study site mothers and offspring associating
that happens every two to three years.
after a near two-year absence. It was months and years later, but that’s another
When they emerge from their dens in
nesting season and though we saw fewer story.
the spring it is easy to tell who’s pregnant
snakes than in years past, who we did see
(already looking fat and healthy) and
made it a very special trip. TWA often shares her nest with younger
who gave birth last year (still somewhat
or very skinny). The pregnant females moms and as is usually the case, sticks
We saw one of our oldest friends, TWA, them with the child care duties. In fact, in
may grab a meal, but are in place at
and her new family — the fourth litter 2011, 2013, and 2015, we never observed
their gestation sites by June and there
of hers we’ve observed. We first met a her with her kiddos, the babysitter was
they stay until they give birth in late
clearly pregnant TWA in the spring of the only one seen attending the babies.
August to mid-September. Many of the
2011 at the outset of our Arizona Black But on our last day in 2019, we finally
snakes in this population gestate and
Rattlesnake social behavior study. She
nest at rookeries with other pregnant
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
hard to beat a face-to-face conversation,
especially for contentious issues like
living with venomous snakes. The
pandemic has brought new challenges
to this type of work, but we’re looking
forward to getting back out there, in new
and exciting ways, in 2021.
40 Rattlesnakes Discovered in Couple’s
Shed!
Usually headlines like that are followed
by a story detailing how miraculously
no one was hurt before the snakes were
inevitably removed or killed. This is not
that story. But it did start out that way.
Initially, this couple wanted the
rattlesnakes gone. But since removing
Melissa Amarello, ASP Executive Director, testifying before the Arizona Senate Government
Committee about public safety risks from HB2022. Courtesy: Melissa Amarello the snakes does not address the reason
they show up in the first place, new ones
showed up and the old ones found their
way back. In rural Arizona, their lush
saw TWA with one of her kids. they are much smaller and lighter in color than yard offers food and water for wildlife
Based on what we’ve learned about TWA was in 2011, indicating she was many (including snakes) and an old adobe
growth and reproduction in this years older. structure used for storage provided
population, TWA was (at least) in her the best overwintering den around for
early teens when we met her in 2011, so Face to Face for Snakes Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnakes.
she’s pushing 20 years old now and still Last summer at our local farmers We would come to call this building the
producing big, healthy litters. There is so market, a little boy ran up and hugged “Snake House.”
little known about how long rattlesnakes me. At first I thought it was a case of
live and reproduce; we’re fortunate mistaken identity, but then he started Nowadays snakes are only moved if
that this remarkably tolerant group of asking after Pipsqueak, one of our snake they’re hanging around immediately
rattlesnakes has given us a peek into this teaching assistants (who usually steals outside the couples’ house, a hundred
and many other aspects of their lives. the show). We had visited his classroom yards back to the Snake House.
at a nearby rural school and made the The homeowners have become
**The rattle is a series of segments, like links kind of lasting impression we aim to snake stewards, greeting them when
in a chain, one added each time a snake sheds with our outreach programs: to teach encountered and offering apologies to
its skin, which happens one or more times people that snakes aren’t bad, there are them when disturbed. In short, they treat
each year. Although you can’t directly age a safe ways to coexist, and having snakes rattlesnakes like the good neighbors they
rattlesnake by counting the number of segments, around us makes our lives richer. are. So what happened?
you can learn things from the rattle’s shape and
size, especially in snake populations you’ve been Helping kids fall in love with their snake #EducationIsConservation is more than
monitoring closely for years. The size of each neighbors is an important step towards a hashtag. Our friend and colleague has
rattle segment is correlated with the length of changing the prevalent attitude that been working directly with this couple
the snake, so a growing snake’s rattle will taper “the only good snake is a dead snake.” for years, since he was first called upon
down to a point at the end. As they mature, Since May 2014 we’ve participated to solve their snake problem. Initially
growth slows to a near halt, older segments in more than 20 festivals and given he convinced them to let him move,
break off, and there is little to no taper. We dozens of presentations in classrooms, rather than kill, the snakes, and with each
also know that in this population, females libraries, and other venues. In all, we’ve visit he’d teach them a bit more about
start reproducing at four to six years old, when reached more than 30,000 people in their snake neighbors. Eventually he got
the southwestern United States! It’s
12 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
permission to enter the Snake House play. Often, people are more likely to
each winter to count and identify its listen and learn from their friends and
occupants while making improvements families, giving everyone an opportunity
so that it is more snake-friendly and to share their knowledge and love
safer for people to access and move of snakes and be a conservationist.
around. Together, we can create a world where
snakes are respected and appreciated,
This story has a happy ending for instead of feared and hated.
everyone. What was once an unwanted
infestation is now a source of pride. The
owners of the Snake House permit us
to monitor the comings and goings of
snakes with cameras, and each winter
during our annual count, they invite
friends to check out their snakes. During
this festive event, we share stories and
answer questions about rattlesnakes (and
living with them) and everyone sees how
timid and peaceful rattlesnakes are while
learning more about them.
And we’re learning from the snakes too.
Unlike our Arizona Black Rattlesnake
dens, it’s a different group at the Snake
House every year. Many repeat visitors
(though they seem to rotate between this
and other unknown dens), but always
new faces too. And unlike other Western
Diamond-Backed Rattlesnake dens
we’ve monitored, juveniles use the Snake
House too, as well as other snake species
including Mohave Rattlesnakes.
We’re in this for the long haul; changing The festive annual event that is processing Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnakes at the
how people view and treat snakes Snake House. Credit: Melissa Amarello.
does not happen overnight, but it does
happen. And you can help.
We Are All Conservationists
The best thing about conservation
stories is that everyone can be a
conservationist. If you love snakes you
probably have stories of your own:
encounters with snakes in the wild,
stories you’ve read or heard, or perhaps
a cool video you saw on YouTube.
Conservation isn’t something done
exclusively by scientists, policy-makers,
or organizations like ASP and the
Orianne Society; all of us have a role to
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
Burner Bob Going Big
by Shan Cammack - and Reese Thompson
As the fog drifts downhill into the Network, which is the friends group
Longleaf flatwoods the game camera of Georgia Department of Natural
snaps a photo of a Bobwhite Quail Resources (DNR) Wildlife Conservation
greeting a Gopher Tortoise on the apron Section, donated critical funds to this
of his burrow. Teachers at Kennesaw cause. With this funding, Burner Bob®
State University set up this game cam set out to promote prescribed fire
in a Longleaf Pine forest in southeast as the indispensable tool for habitat
Georgia to creatively bring the magic management and to reach a new and
of nature into the classroom. Along larger audience.
with Gopher Tortoise cameras (special
equipment used to snake into a burrow) Burner Bob® was hatched from the great
the game cam is being used to educate mind of Reese Thompson, tree farmer
students about this important keystone and conservation enthusiast from Vidalia,
species. Dozens of critters--birds, small Georgia. In his early years, Burner Bob®
mammals, snakes, frogs, and lizards--use communicated mostly with his popular
the Gopher Tortoise burrows as a hide- coloring books and engaging stories.
out or as a home. All friends of Burner Next came a mascot, then Reese teamed
Bob®. up with The Longleaf Alliance and
Burner Bob found a new home. From
Burner Bob® is a giant Bobwhite Quail there it was off to the races. In 2019
devoted to teaching people about the alone, Burner Bob was able to make “in-
importance of the Longleaf Pine eco- quail appearances” at 15 events in seven
system and the web of life that it sup- states, with an estimated reach of almost
ports. He extolls the virtues of pre- 55,000 people. The events varied from
scribed fire—a safe way to apply a natural prescribed fire council annual meetings in
process, ensure ecosystem function, and Georgia, South Carolina, and Missouri to
reduce wildfire risk. Read more about his Fire Festival and Family events in Florida,
humble beginnings in the side bar. Georgia, North Carolina, and South Car-
olina. Burner Bob® even met up with
How exactly does an 8-foot tall Bobwhite Smokey Bear at the Project Wild Annual
Quail deliver his message and win over Meeting in Arkansas to brainstorm about
the hearts of thousands? Burner Bob® how to expand educational curricula to
has teamed up with some innovative include his message about Good Fire.
humans as well as some magnanimous
benefactors to get his message out in a Burner Bob® also attended two film
creative way. Private supporters of The screenings. At the Wild & Scenic
Longleaf Alliance (LLA) along with Film Festival in Columbus, Georgia he
TERN, The Environmental Resources debuted his feature short in the Roots of
14 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
Shan Cammack and Burner Bob®. Credit: Randy Tate
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine Burner Bob® on the fireline. Credit: Reese Thompson Fire crew member with a snake found on the fireline. Credit: Reese Thompson 16 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021
Indigomagazine
“Burner Bob® is a giant Bobwhite Quail devoted to
teaching people about the importance of the Longleaf
Pine ecosystem and the web of life that it supports.”
Resilience Block which was sponsored by Another unique vehicle for expression at the Association for Conservation
The Nature Conservancy. It was quite a came in the form of an article in a Information national award ceremony.
sight to see 125 people enjoying popcorn national children’s magazine. The 2019 (We actually tied for second place with
and his film. Burner Bob® even jazzed summer issue of Muse was focused on Nevada Department of Wildlife’s Nevada
up the panel discussion on prescribed fire fire, and hit it from all angles: wildfire, Knockout, barely edged out by Tennessee
during the event. While he didn’t actually climate change, technology, devastation. Wildlife Resources Agency.)
answer any questions, his presence clearly The magazine wrapped up with a couple
engaged the audience. His human friends of optimistic articles that featured Burner Bob® continues to hatch out
were treated like VIPs that weekend as prescribed fire in the Southeast and new ideas and, most recently, a mascot
well. They were even recognized on the emphasized what an important role it brother. (Psst, more details coming
street and greeted by the locals as “Hey, plays. Burner Bob® made a cameo soon!) Funds from TERN, the National
you’re that girl in the Burner Bob video!” in one of the articles and was able to Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the US
You can find his video on The Longleaf promote The Longleaf Alliance’s website. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for
Alliance YouTube channel: You can find this article here: https:// Fish and Wildlife have been earmarked
https://www.youtube.com/ georgiawildlife.com/sites/default/files/ for new and innovative plans, including
watch?v=8ecv3qZjJcw wrd/pdf/Muse%20Magazine%202019. more videos. One private donor
pdf specified that her funds were to be used
The short video was filmed during a for “whatever Burner Bob® needs.” It
prescribed burn in the “Big Woods.” And finally, Burner Bob, the Cool Dude is hoped that these efforts will capture
Beyond conducting a prescribed burn, with a Hot Message®, needed to sling the attention and empathy of youth and
the day included unique challenges, such some swag. The grants and donations adults alike, enkindling more friends to
as not catching (a highly flammable) helped produce a number of enviable support and promote prescribed fire.
Burner Bob® on fire and keeping the items. T-shirts, bumper stickers, puzzles,
videographer out of the smoke! The day and vinyl stickers were treasured by Back in the Longleaf Pine forest, it’s
turned out to be very successful, with a many and provided another vehicle for late afternoon and haze of the fog has
safe prescribed burn, no singed feathers, promoting Burner Bob® and his cause. given way to smoke from a prescribed
and a ton of exciting footage. The video I can’t tell you how many times I got to burn. The smoke intensifies the oranges
has been promoted by Georgia DNR entice people to check out our video by and reds of the setting sun and drifts
and LLA through several social media simply carrying around my water bottle across the burrow downslope as the
platforms. The video’s reach has been with the flashy stickers and answering bobwhite quail and the Gopher Tortoise
estimated at more than 110,000 people. questions from curious people who say goodnight to each other. They are
Other posts on Facebook and Instagram spotted the stickers. unaware of the great efforts made by
have reached another 15,000. Burner Burner Bob® and his human friends,
Bob® even has his own Facebook page All of this work turned out to be a great but they enjoy the benefits, nonetheless.
where he posts pictures of fire and communication effort that effectively They simply reflect on what a great
friends and has a following of almost delivered the message in creative ways, prescribed burn it has been that day and
1,000 humans. While Burner Bob® may promoting prescribed fire and enhancing share their excitement about the new
appear to be a luddite, he understands conservation. In fact, the educational growth of native plants that they know
that you’ve got to keep up with the campaign recently earned second place in will be providing them food and shelter
changing times to remain popular. the hotly contested Education Category in the coming weeks.
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
Shan Cammack is a Wildlife Biologist III with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and is an active steering committee member of The
Interagency Burn Team and the Georgia Prescribed Fire Council. Shan is also the 2020 recipient of The Burner Bob® Prescribed Fire Champion
Award from The Longleaf Alliance. “This award recognizes an individual or organization for outstanding efforts in championing prescribed fire to
ensure the future of the Longleaf ecosystem on private land.” Shan humbly maintains that she enjoys working with Burner Bob® and is really just
riding his coattails, or would that primarily be his coverts?
a message from Reese
As a conservation-minded tree farmer, to prevent forest fires. One day while The biggest challenge, however,
Reese Thompson is involved with many riding a tree planter, Reese realized that remains changing people’s mindset
conservation organizations. He actively there was not a charismatic messenger that all fires are bad. It is an uphill
participates in their meetings, where to promote the benefits of fire. The educational process of explaining that
the recurring theme is the need for longleaf ecosystem has evolved with fire is nature’s way of cleansing the
more fire on the ground to create good lightning strike fires and its sensitive forest and recycling nutrients. With
habitat for sensitive species. species are dependent upon frequent a lot of work, hopefully the public
burns. After some thought, the idea of will recognize that Burner Bob®’s
Reese’s family are seventh-generation a Bobwhite Quail, an iconic bird in the message and Smokey Bear’s message
Georgians who have connected to the south and one that greatly benefits from actually complement each other.
land through forestry. They have been prescribed fire, would be the perfect
in the turpentine business for at least mascot. Hence the name, Burner Bob® Reese Thompson, Tree Farmer,
four generations. For the Thompsons, was created along with the slogan “A Vidalia, Georgia
conducting controlled burning for Cool Dude with a Hot Message.®”
wildfire suppression has been an annual
practice. A bigger than life-sized quail costume
was designed and made by International
Presently, their habitat supports many Mascot Corporation. Burner Bob®
sensitive species, including the federally was soon appearing at conservation
listed Eastern Indigo Snake, Gopher meetings, festival events, and even on
Tortoise (a candidate for federal listing), TV, spreading the message that good
Bachman’s sparrow, and others. With fires help prevent bad fires and that
a family tradition of burning and a they create habitat for sensitive species.
personal affinity for the resulting habitat There have been some logistical issues
improvements, Reese began wondering: transporting the costume around the
Why there wasn’t there more prescribed region. Many thanks to the U.S. Fish
fire? and Wildlife Service’s Partners for
Fish and Wildlife Program, which has
Over the last 76 years, we have all grown provided grant funding for a second
up with Smokey Bear saying, “Only you Burner Bob® costume (an identical
can prevent forest fires.” Smokey has brother!). This will greatly increase his
done an excellent job of raising public exposure.
awareness of everyone’s responsibility
18 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
Fire crew with Reese Thompson, far right. Credit Reese Thompson
Gopher Tortoise found on the property of Reese Thompson. Credit: Reese Thompson
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
Conservation through Conversation
by Chris Jenkins
I have what some people might think who lose control of their mind and body safe” environment, it seems that so many
is an eccentric fascination with snakes. if a snake appears on a television screen, people are surprised to realize they are
For some reason unknown to me, and countless numbers of snakes that fascinated by these animals. I cannot
people can be fanatics for wild animals were killed out of confused emotions, tell you how many times I have given
such as lions, tigers, or bears or even whether those be hate or fear. a presentation on snakes and during
domestic animals such as cats or horses, the live animal demonstration I have
but if you are interested in snakes you But I think these emotions often times someone come up to me initially telling
may get categorized as strange. It goes mask a deep fascination. Many people me how much they hate snakes. They
much further than this though, into a truly “lose their mind” in the presence typically go into every story where they
deep unfounded-uninformed dislike of of a snake, losing any sense of rationality have killed a snake. But in the end, they
snakes in many people. Snakes are the and let these confused and uninformed spend a long time touching the snake and
most feared, maligned, and persecuted emotions take control of them. But if asking questions, and it is really apparent
group of animals on the planet. I have you can get by those initial emotions that they are fascinated by snakes. I like
seen grown men scream and run at the that people have and provide them with to say that if I present you a fork you
site of a six inch brown snake, people information on snakes in a “controlled- eat with it, if I present you with a book
20 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
you read it, but if I present you with a saying: “Remember, snakes are animals off the trail, we have found that most
snake you kill it…meaning that we are too and it is a privilege to see one in the people would try to harm the snake,
taught from a young age that the way you wild”. It may sound strange to some fearing they were in danger. Why not
interact with snakes is to kill them. people, but I think it is important for spend a long-time observing it, taking
people to really understand that snakes pictures, and making memories? To see
Having all these experiences has made me are animals just like the deer they feed in a rattlesnake in the wild is truly a special
realize that one of the most important their backyard or the dog that sleeps at thing, we are trying to get people to
ways we can conserve snake populations their feet. Many people subconsciously appreciate these rattlesnake encounters
is by providing transformative moments. put snakes in their own category and do just like they would appreciate the
These moments can happen in so many not think anything strange about killing moose.
different ways, from putting a snake in a them. But I think people would think
child’s hands to an elderly person reading it was strange, perhaps even get quite The idea for launching the Snake Talk
an article written in a local paper, but mad, if I decided to kill every blue bird I movement was when it occurred to
the concept is the same; getting people encountered. Why is the snake different me that I had been opportunistically
away from the irrational, learned, and than the bluebird? Again snakes are working to transform people’s views
uninformed place of hating and fearing animals too and we should respect them of snakes for most of my life. I also
snakes to a place of fascination, desire for that. The second part of the saying realized how important that was for
to learn, and appreciation. I have really talks about how much of a privilege it conservation. Years ago I would have
been working on helping people make is to see a snake in the wild. If you were told you that protecting a piece of land
this transformation my entire career but hiking in the woods and had a moose or restoring an important habitat was
we recently we put a name to this effort, standing next to the trail, you would likely always more important. But I truly
Snake Talk. be very excited and spend a long time think that for the conservation of
observing, taking pictures, and making snakes, raising awareness and providing
Snake Talk is really a movement to memories. But if you were walking and focused education will further the
transform people’s negative perspectives saw a rattlesnake coiled in the woods conservation of these species far more
on snakes. The name symbolizes the
concept of slowing down, being calm,
and having a knowledgeable conversation
about snakes to help people get past
irrational fears. I always say no one
is indifferent to a snake. If you are
walking through the woods and a crow
flies by, many people may not pay any
attention to the crow, but if on that
same hike you pass a snake coiled next
to the trail it would be a big deal. Snakes
bring about intense emotions in most
people, sometimes that is interest and
appreciation but more often it is fear.
Snake Talk is an effort to capitalize
on snake’s abilities to stir intense
emotions, calm those fears with objective
knowledge, and transform those fears to
interest and fascination. Not everyone
needs to dedicate their lives to snake as
I have, but it is important that we realize
snakes are important too.
I recently launched the Snake Talk The first episode of Snake Talk. Courtesy of Houston Chandler
podcast and I end every episode with the and Heidi Hall
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
to snakes. We then typically get in depth
on a particular topic that is the focus of
“Snake Talk is really a movement to transform people’s the episode, which could be anything
negative perspectives on snakes. The name symbolizes from the ecology of a particular snake, a
nonprofit they run, or general topics such
the concept of slowing down, being calm, and having a as snake bite. Finally, my favorite part is
knowledgeable conversation about snakes to help people get at the end of every podcast where I ask
past irrational fears. “ each guest to tell us their best snake story
as if we were sitting around a campfire.
Someday I will cut out all of these stories
than habitat or land protection. Do not interesting people.
and make one podcast episode that is just
get me wrong, land conservation and
snake stories, I cannot wait!
other approaches are very important and We launched the first episode of Snake
we will continue to work on them, but Talk on July 27th and are releasing a new
We thought the best way to launch the
the primary problem most snake species episodes twice per month. Most episodes
podcast series was to focus on the species
face (especially venomous one) is an are between one and one and a half
of snake that started The Orianne
issue with their image and the resulting hours long and involve me interviewing
Society and to give some background on
persecution. If Snake Talk can play a an expert on some aspect of snakes.
Orianne as the organization producing
role in changing how people think about I start every podcast introducing how
the podcast. Thus, two Orianne Society
snakes and thus how they react when I know the guest and giving them a
employees joined me as we introduced
seeing one, I see it as one of the greatest brief introduction. Then I ask a series
the podcast, Houston Chandler, who is
contributions we can make to snake of questions that gives the audience an
quickly becoming an expert on Eastern
conservation. in-depth understanding of how they got
Indigo Snakes, and Heidi Hall, who has
into snakes and how their life path has
been with Orianne from its inception.
The first step of formalizing Snake Talk led them to where they are today relative
Most of the episode was spent talking
as an Orianne Society program to raise
awareness of snakes was launching the
podcast. Over the past couple years I
have really become addicted to podcasts,
listening to them instead of listening
to music or watching television. I had
been thinking about how fun it would
be launch a podcast. The only other area
where I had enough experience to launch
a meaningful podcast was in the hunting
and fishing world but that podcast world
is saturated and there were very few
podcasts out there about reptiles and
amphibians. Plus, snakes are probably
what I know best and one of my greatest
interests. It came together when I took
the idea of doing a podcast from being
a “fun” thing to do to realizing that is
could be an important tool for snake
conservation. On top of that, having
spent a career working at universities
and in nonprofits with many of the
leading scientists, land managers, and
conservationists in the world, I realized
that we could put together a podcast Episode 2: America’s Snake: Timber Rattlesnake Ecology with
Dr. Steven Beaupre. Courtesy Dr. Steven Beaupre.
that had incredible content with very
22 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
about the Eastern Indigo Snake (or
‘Emperor of the Forest’). Eastern
Indigo Snakes are one of the largest
native snakes in North America and
top predators in the Southeast feeding
primarily on other snakes. We talked
about their natural history and ecology,
touching on many of the conservation
programs Orianne Society has worked
on with them over the years. We also
talked about the Orianne Society itself,
including its origins and history. The
story of The Orianne Society is one of
a young girl who inspired a region of
partners to focus on conserving a snake
species and of an organization that had
to fight to survive as it transitioned from
a family foundation to a public charity.
Our episodes have and will continue
to cover a wide range of topics but
one theme that is prevalent in many
Episode 5: Bushmasters and Osa Conservation with Dr. Andy
episodes is ecology and natural history. Whitworth. Courtesy of Dr. Andy Whitworth.
For example, I interviewed Dr. Steven
Beaupre from the University of Arkansas
where we talked in depth about the
ecology of Timber Rattlesnakes. Dr.
Beaupre is one of the world’s most worked on a diverse group of snakes facility almost 10 years ago to serve as
accomplished rattlesnake ecologists who from different regions of the country. source of indigo snakes to reestablish
has been a leading force in increasing We discuss how he pioneered the use their populations in the Gulf Region of
our knowledge of physiological of videography to study the ecology Florida and Alabama. We have partnered
ecology in snakes. If you do not know and natural history of snakes. The with the Central Florida Zoo who now
what physiological ecology is, listen details of these snake’s hidden lives are runs the facility. On the episode we
to the episode, it is one of the most incredible tools for making the type of talk with founding OCIC Director,
important aspects of ecology if you transformation change we built Snake Fred Antonio, and current CFZ OCIC
want to understand snakes and what Talk on. Some of the observations Dr. Director, Michelle Hoffman, on a
they do. We also had an episode where Clark is making with his cameras have wide range of topics including the
I talk with a friend of mine, Dr. Andy to be seen to believe, go listen to the construction of the facility, husbandry
Whitworth about the natural history of episode and learn how you can watch the and breeding of indigo snakes, the value
Bushmasters. Andy has a fascinating videos. of captive breeding to conservation,
history that takes him from the industrial and the indigo snake reintroduction
landscapes of North England to the Another theme that is often the focus program. In episode four of Snake
rainforests of Latin America. Andy and of the Snake Talk podcast episodes is Talk I spoke with Drs. Stephen Spear
I share a fascination with one of the conservation. Our first conservation and Jesus Sigala. Together they co-
world’s largest vipers, Bushmasters. But focused episode features staff from the chair the Viper Specialist Group (VSG)
unlike me, Andy has seen multiple in Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation for the International Union for the
the wild and is working to understand (OCIC). The OCIC is a state-of-the-art Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
their ecology and to conserve their reptile breeding center with herpetariums, While not well known in the United
habitats every day. We also interview Dr. veterinary and quarantine facilities, States, IUCN is one of the largest most
Rulon Clark. Dr. Clark is a professor offices, and outdoor enclosures for influential conservation organizations
at San Diego State University and has breeding. The Orianne Society built the in the world. The Viper Specialist group
ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
was formed about ten years ago and has
been the leading force uniting biologists,
conservationists, and governments to
implement viper conservation around
the world. I also had the great honor to
interview Dr. Charles Peterson for an
episode on his career researching and
conserving reptiles and amphibians in
the Intermountain West. I met chuck
back in 2000 when he took a chance on
me and took me on as a PhD student.
I was already in a PhD program but
I had this burning need to work with
rattlesnakes and Chuck gave me the
opportunity. In the episode with Chuck
we talk about a wide range of projects
he has focused on over the years, but
spend a great deal of time talking about
the project I was part of; one of the
longest-term, largest dataset producing
projects on snakes ever, the Southeast
Idaho Great Basin Rattlesnake project.
Episode 8: Georgia to Texas, Field Herping and YouTube with
Noah Fields. Courtesy: Noah Fields. Finally on conservation, we interview
Melissa Amarello who founded and
works as Executive Director of
Advocates for Snake Preservation.
Melissa’s organization takes a unique
approach to snake conservation
by focusing primarily on advocacy
addressing issues such as rattlesnake
roundups. In the interview we also
spend some time discussing her studies
on parental care in snakes and some
interesting species such as Arizona Black
Rattlesnakes.
Many of our episodes are focused on
important or interesting topics related to
snakes. As an example of an important
issue, episode 9 is focused on wildlife
trade and specifically the skin trade in
snakes. I interview Craig Hoover who
is currently the Vice President of the
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
but has had a long career with the
United Snakes Fish and Wildlife Service
working on combating wildlife trade.
Episode 9: International Trade and Snake Skins with Craig
Craig tells incredible stories from
Hoover. Courtesy: Craig Hoover. untangling a ball of hundreds of ball
pythons to the length people will go
24 ORIANNESOCIETY.ORG WINTER 2021Indigomagazine
to try and smuggle reptiles in and out
of the country on their body. We also
try to hit on some interesting topics
such as our interview with Kim Mross
who works on the popular TV show
The Walking Dead. Kim’s role is to be
the snake wrangler. Before and during
filming Kim goes in and captures
snakes, holds them temporarily and
then releases them after the scene is
filmed. Kim shares some great stories
about actors and actresses and how they
respond to the abundance of snakes
they find at their filming locations. We
also spend some time talking about
Kim’s efforts to rescue and rehabilitate
reptiles in conjunction with Georgia
Department of Natural Resources. This
is an episode you do not want to miss,
snakes are often seen in the movies and
we discuss some of these films and our
takes on how they portray snakes. We
Episode 11: Snake Wrangling for the Walking Dead with Kim
also want to do podcasts with people Mross. Courtesy: Kim Mross.
who are not snake experts but through
their work or recreational pursuits come
into frequent contact with snakes. In
episode 10, we interview Zack Dalton
who is Director of Sales for the fly
fishing giants, Sage, Redington, and Rio
Products. In all his years of fly fishing
around the world and growing up in
the deserts of Idaho he has many snake
stories to tell. We talk about how people
in the fly fishing community general
feel towards snakes, talk about Rubber
Boas, and he tells a great story about
encountering a rattlesnake in a canyon
while fishing. These types of episodes
are important moving forward, as they
may draw an audience outside of the
people that already have an interest in
snakes.
One of the topics the Snake Talk
podcast is going to cover throughout
the years is field herping. Most people
have a picture in their head when they
think about people who go birding, Episode 13: Snakes of the Intermountain West with Dr. Charles
Peterson. Courtesy: Dr. Charles Peterson.
well, field herping is the same, it is just
with reptiles and amphibians. There
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