It seems that my posts bring the wrong kind of conflict. I will try to keep this post agreeable enough to stay up. When I see misinformation, I post on it. When I see an opportunity to share some knowledge, I do so... and when there is a chance to spark a discussion, I am always up to reading someone elses views. However, I have a fundamental difficulty at times to blandly write a plain post. I write how I speak. Knowledge doesnt always come wrapped in a nice package, neither does humor. I usually try to include both, although for a plethora of reasons, written sarcasm and innuendo doesnt always shine through on the net.
Its great to see a forum where enthusiasm reigns, across borders, oceans and languages. And there also seems to be a tight knit group within a much larger community of thamnophis and related keepers. There is also, no doubt, a vast wealth of knowledgeable, experienced people here.
However, at times not everything can be taken for face value (referring to most of my posts that seem to not get a warm reception). Asking questions about something some one wrote shouldnt be taken as bickering, they should be taken as a chance to further the topic and clarify what was written. There is nothing wrong with asking for references or studies to back up a claim, but opinions are still opinions even if they go against what is accepted. I also realize I'm extremely guilty of coming across as "aggressive" in a couple of my posts here.
This is getting long, and there is still a few things that I was asked to share in other threads so I'll get to that:
I was under the impression my view of not releasing into the wild was the common one shared amongst herpers. I stand corrected. So heres some background ; Releasing Captive Reptiles and Amphibians
This page alone is a great read, here is a little quote.
California desert tortoises are under threat of extinction is because those populations not disturbed by habitat destruction are being decimated by a viral infection spread into the wild populations by sick former captives who were released into the wild...
Websites arent always worth the ones and zeros theyre written on, but this is HIGHLY documented as one prime example. The Desert Tortoise (DesertUSA)
Currently, the tortoises' main survival danger is raven predation on hatchlings and the upper respiratory disease syndrome (URDS) which is believed to have been introduced into the wild population in the early 1980's. According to the California Department of Fish and Game guidelines, it is unlawful to release a tortoise back into the wild after any length in captivity. This regulation is to prevent the spread of the disease.
One more site - mainly repeating with other experts : USGS Press Release
I realize that this isnt apples to apples, but there just arent many studies done, ( that I can find), regarding the basics of garters...forget about particulars such as this. Id love to read some though if anyone has any links....
All of this parallels all reptiles and amphibians... And of course works the other way for feeding wild caught prey. Ive stated before, that without someone - - somewhere catching and breeding an animal, my cages would all be empty and my dogs bowl would never empty because he wouldnt be here either!
It wasnt my true goal to ruffle feathers, only to open discussion in my own, Unique way. If anyone posts on this thread, I will gladly respond and further a conversation, but I wont be posting in the open forum anymore. (only lurking).
A flame can spark Enlightenment
Rancor_
p.s Hope the stars aligned for all!