Earlier this month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced it would suspend all inspection and clearance of wildlife imports/exports during overtime hours.

The lack of inspection services would likely have caused needless death or injury to live animals, as many international flights arrive during overtime hours and also encounter delays. The herp community acted swiftly, and on March 15, just two days after the announcement, USFWS lifted the restriction of overtime operations. Thank you to everyone who supported the herp community by participating in efforts to reverse this action. This was a team effort. Special thanks to Marshall Meyers of PIJAC and everyone who utilized the USARK Action Alert campaign.

USARK and our D.C. legal team are currently analyzing HR 996 (a reintroduction of HR 669: Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act to summarize), corresponding with assigned committees and building an appropriate plan of action. It is prudent to develop our strongest strategy. USARK will keep you updated on noteworthy happenings. (View a summary of the bill here.)

NARBC Tinley Park, March 16-17, was another great show. The auction demonstrated amazing generosity to support Rico Walder and his fight against brain cancer by raising $10,200 for Walder. Amazing generosity was displayed by Timberline, Marc Bailey Reptiles, Ozzy Boids and others by bidding well over retail prices on items donated by iHerp.com, kingsnake.com, Living Art Publications, Rodent Pro, PM Herp/BARRS, Timberline, Goss Reptiles, and others. Several cash donations were added to the pot, including contributions from Marc Bailey and a group of Australian herpers who see the importance of supporting the entire global herp community. Not enough can be said about the strength and support of the herp community. USARK wishes Rico well.

A donation from Reptiles by Mack raised $500 for the Ohio Association of Animal Owners, thanks to a strong bid from Shay Hamper. The Saturday night auction also raised $17,645 for USARK and PIJAC. A huge thank you to everyone who donated and attended the auction.