Tag Archives: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The U.S. Association of Reptile Keepers of Florida wants the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to approve captive breeding of Diamondback terrapins. The move would combat declining populations of the species of turtle due to high demand as both low-maintenance pets and poachable commodities. The program will be discussed at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting Wednesday, but FWC’s staff report, slated to be presented during discussion, recommends maintaining current rules.

As the bill waits for the president’s signature, local officials feel that this legislation is bringing together federal, state and local efforts in a cohesive attempt to restore the seagrass and manatee population.

The UF College Of Veterinary Medicine will hold an event on June 12 where individuals can get their reptiles tagged or microchipped for free.

Every winter thousands of manatees migrate through Florida’s waterways for warm water and food. This year the seagrass beds have been insufficient in supply, causing at least 540 manatees to die.