Hi Jessica,
I have no problem with a few grey treefrogs or newts in captivity in the
classroom for a while. I understand that this is not the position that
many herpers and naturalists take.
However, I know from personal experience, that - if done well, and I know
that Jessica and Kestrel does this wonderfully, keeping captive native
animals in the classroom can be a fantastic vehicle for developing a sense
of connection, knowledge, and most importantly stewardship over the wild
species that live in the same neighborhoods as the students. Conservation
is a human activity and to do it well, we need to do all we can to motivate
our fellow humans to participate or at least support wildlife conservation.
Both the species that you are interested in can be maintained safely and
well in captivity without great difficulty; the treefrogs are especially
easy.
Jessica,
I have a large gray treefrog breeding population right by my house. They
had bred for years in my neighbor's unused swimming pool. Sadly, the pool
was recently filled in but I suspect that many of the males will be calling
from the area for a while fairly soon (sooner than usual given the
ridiculous but beautiful weather). If you'd like, I'd be happy to snag a
male or two for you. Newts are sparse here in the Concord area, though I
can tell you where to find some as well.
My understanding from discussions with Tom French, etc. about this is that
you do NOT need a state collecting permit for gray treefrogs and newts as
long as you take no more than 2 individuals.
Best Wishes,
Bryan
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