The Upstate Herpetological Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation, husbandry, scientific
study and education of the public with respect to reptiles and amphibians (herptiles).
Herptiles (snakes in particular) tend to have an undeserved bad reptutation, often ending in wanton destruction of these
beneficial animals due to irrational fear. Several concerns in regards to the conservation issues are the large number of animals
in the past that have been collected from the wild for the pet trade, as well as habitat destruction from land development,
in some cases resulting the near extinction of some species. The result of these unfortuante circumstances has led to, in
many cases, the enactment of legislation limiting the keeping of these animals, which, in reality can add to the destruction
of these animals in the wild.
It is our desire that the sense of balance be restored to the issues of conservation vs. private ownership; to promote
education via schools, public displays as well as through the society the society meetings; and to provide a means for the
exchange of information regarding the proper care, breeding, treatment of disease, etc. with respct to reptiles and amphibians.
The benefits and advantages of being a UHA member:
As a society, we encourage the responsible keeping of reptiles and amphibians, with an emphasis on captive
breeding of these animals.
Captive breeding creates quality animals available to legally satisy the demand while removing the pressure
form overcollecting or poaching of wild animals, thereby helping to assure their survival in the wild.
Another major aspect of our society is the education of the general public with respect to the role of reptiles
and amphibians and the necessity for conservation of these animals. We assist educational institutions (schools, nature centers,
etc) by providing accurate information through "animal encounters" so people will learn to respoect rather than destroy.
The UHA also operates an adoption program for unwanted herptiles.
We support herpetological research through the UHA grant program.
The Association has members who can identify species of reptiles and amphibians and advise as to the proper
handling (or assist in capute if needed) and provide sutiable homes for such animals. Care sheets for many animals are also
available.
We monitor and respond to legislation that affects the keeping of herptiles in captivity.
The Association holds monthly meetings in Albany and Syracuse whre the speakers present information on care,
breeding, diseases, treatment, conservation and various other topics relating to reptiles and amphibians.
We provide an annual directory that includes special interests and lists over 25 exchanges members from across
the country.
HerpBeat monthly newsletters filled with stories, articles and a calender of events, and the opportunity for
free "unclassified" ads to members.
UHA library with back issues of exchange newsletters, video tapes and herpetological books.
Discounts at participating pet shops.
The knowledge that you are an active part of conserving herpetofauna through the purchase of rainforest, research
and more with funds from UHA activities
A great way to meet people who share a common interest.
