J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue supports several of the recently approved updates to Wisconsin’s native reptile and amphibian regulations, particularly the new 24-hour possession rule and the ban on turtle races and frog jumping contests.
“Our position has always been simple: reptiles and amphibians deserve the same dignity and protections we already give other wildlife,” said John Moyles, founder and director of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. “Wildlife belongs in the wild.”
The new 24-hour possession rule limits how long native reptiles and amphibians can be kept after being removed from the wild. J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue says the change addresses a growing issue the organization sees regularly through its rescue work.
“Every year, we receive calls from people trying to surrender native turtles, snakes, frogs, and salamanders they took from the wild and later realized they could not properly care for,” Moyles said. “This rule helps reinforce an important conservation message while still allowing people to observe and appreciate wildlife responsibly.”
The organization also supports the ban on turtle races and frog jumping contests involving native wildlife.
“These events can contribute to disease spread, improper release, wildlife trafficking concerns, and unnecessary stress on animals,” Moyles said. “Wildlife should not be treated as entertainment.”
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue additionally supports restrictions on the use of snake hooks and tongs on public lands for recreational collection, saying public lands should prioritize low-impact wildlife observation and conservation.
During the public testimony process, the organization advocated for compromise solutions that would continue to allow responsibly captive-bred native reptiles to be legally possessed and sold under proper oversight and licensing.
“We believe conservation and responsible captive breeding can coexist,” Moyles said. “Protecting wild native populations and allowing legal pathways for responsibly bred animals are not mutually exclusive goals.”
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is an exotic pet rescue and educational organization based in Neenah, Wisconsin. The organization hosts educational programs and exotic pet surrender events across the state focused on conservation, invasive species prevention, and responsible pet ownership.
For more information, visit J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue