Information needed!

[bezilsgirl]

There is a push for a law going on in New Mexico (where I live) restricting "wild by nature" animals- specifically, their importation. So when I call up the person sponsoring this issue tomorrow, I would like to know- If released, could the average corn snake survive in the New Mexican climate? I don't think they are found here naturally... we get snow in winter (quite a bit where I live) and very hot, dry summers. Since I am toying with being a small time breeder this is very important to me, any help is very much appreciated! I'm doing some research, but figured I better ask the experts. Basically my arguement is that New Mexico is not Florida, it is much harsher for many exotics and it would be difficult to survive the extremes here. We don't get much preciptation, except in the form of snow in winter. It gets over 100 in many areas in summer, and well below freezing throughout the state in winter. I'm sure they could probably make it in the right area in summer but I doubt they could survive the winter.
Anyway, here the link to the information if you want to look anything up. Thanks for any help! I'm kinda freaking out here- I would hate to have to get out of breeding corn snakes after I've put so much time and effort and *money* into it! Stupid state laws!

http://www.rexano.org/StatePages/NewMexicoFrame.htm

New Mexico Legislature
New Mexico Constitution
New Mexico Game & Fish

Law Library of Congress

In the news: Legality of exotic pets questioned: Pet store owners not happy with looming restrictions 6/4/2007
Importation Rules open for PUBLIC COMMENT!
GOALS for Rule Amendment

Amend Importation rule in effort to facilitate support to Pet Industry (where compatible with Commission’s rules)
Education & provide adherence to established rules
Maximize safeguards for State populations of protected wildlife & public safety considerations
Proactive disease prevention & undesirable species introduction/establishment

Background of the LAW
Importation of all wild by nature animals may only occur in New Mexico after a permit is issued. Do not bring any wild by nature animal into the state if you have not received a permit from the Department of Game and Fish.

Current Importation Law -
In order to protect game animals, birds and fish against importation of undesirable species and introduction of infectious or contagious diseases, it is a misdemeanor to import any live animals, birds or fish into this state, except domesticated animals or domesticated fowl or fish from government hatcheries, without first obtaining a permit from the department of game and fish [17-3-32. Importing game animals; permits. (1963)].

COMMENT HERE - click here to comment on Importation Rule rhonda.holderman@state.nm.us
or write Rhonda Holderman, Law Enforcement Division, NM Game & Fish, PO Box 25112, Sante Fe, NM87504
or call Rhonda at 505-476-8064.

REVIEW CURRENT RULE (19.35.7 NMAC) - This will take you to the current importation rule established by the State Game Commission.