Section 79.1. Definitions

The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

Color morph—A distinct color variant form of a reptile or amphibian.

Hunt—The act of pursuing reptiles or amphibians in an attempt to catch, take, kill or remove them, or to catch, take, kill or remove any reptile or amphibian from any waters of this Commonwealth or other areas within this Commonwealth by any means or method for any purpose whatsoever.

Native species—A reptile or amphibian species or subspecies, where applicable, that has not been introduced into this Commonwealth and occurs historically within the boundaries of this Commonwealth. The Commission will from time to time publish in the Pennsylvania Bulletin a list of reptile and amphibian species and subspecies, where applicable, that it has determined are native species.

Organized reptile and amphibian hunt—A hunt for reptiles or amphibians involving two or more persons acting in concert to seek, pursue, catch, take, kill or remove native species of reptiles or amphibians at an event where the reptiles or amphibians are hunted on a competitive basis. When one or more of the following factors are present, an event will be considered an organized reptile and amphibian hunt as the term is used in this chapter:

(i) The event is sponsored or promoted by a person or organization.

(ii) The event involves the award of trophies, prizes or other recognition to persons or groups for catching reptiles or amphibians.

(iii) The sponsors of the events or others publicize the event to encourage attendance of spectators.

(iv) The sponsors or organizers of the event have their own rules for the conduct of the hunt.

Sacking contest—A competition where participants place reptiles or amphibians in a sack, bag or similar container in a timed event.

Snake hooks or tongs—Implements used to grasp or lift snakes with minimal risk of injury to the animal.

Subcaudal scale—Large flat scales that are located on the rear ventral portion (underside) of a timber rattlesnake between the vent (anal scale) and the base of the rattle.

Turtle hooks—Hooks used for taking turtles that are at least 3 1/2 inches in total length with at least a 1 inch space between the point and the shank.

Notation

Authority

The provisions of this § 79.1 adopted under the Fish and Boat Code, 30 Pa.C.S. § 2102.

Cross References

This section cited in 58 Pa. Code § 79.2 (relating to taking reptiles or amphibians).