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Blood samples
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by earthguy on February 22, 2006
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Hi, Howdy, and g'day ya'll,
I am planning on doing the vast majority of my thesis this summer. I have already procured all of the necessary collection permits and equipmet (sub-meter GPS in addition to all of my herping equip). But now I have an issue. I have an opportunity to both make a contribution to another researchers interest and make some much needed money while I carry out my research. Killing three birds with one stone, so to speak (I hope PETA isn't reading this ). The problem is that I've never done the procedure necessary before. How do you take blood samples from snakes? Its my understanding that you have to insert a needle directly into the snake's heart. Ouch . Also that would mean having to reapply (or append) permits and gather more equipment. The money that I would get is significant, so the only real issue is if I can can do the procedure without harming the snakes.
How do I take blood samples of venomous snakes in the field without harming them? I would be very appreciative if someone would be willing to show me how (I'm here in SC, but I'll travel to an expert).
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RE: Blood samples
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by JHarrison on February 22, 2006
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DNa samples can come from blood.Heart and tail are good locations for getting blood. But some DNA can be obtained from scale clippings and shed skins.
Kristen has done hundreds of blood samples for research. If you have any questions on methods you can email her at kyreptil@pop.mis.net or call 606-663-9160.
Jim Harrison
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RE: Blood samples
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by mike_anthony on February 23, 2006
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I have extracted blood samples from many snakes in the field. Typically, we use insulin syringes. After tubing the snake, have your partner hold it vertically with the head facing upwards to ensure that more blood will flow towards the tail. Disinfect the area where you intend to draw blood with an alcohol pad. Slowly insert the needle at a 45 degree angle (perpendicular to the snakes body, and not from the side) between the subcaudal scales about 5cm to 10cm from the tip of the tail, making sure that you first align the needle directly in the center of the scales. In larger snakes, the insertion of the needle 10cm from the tip of the tail should suffice. In smaller snakes, use 5cm instead. Gently push in the needle until you feel it lightly touch the caudal vertebrae, then bring the needle back roughly 1mm to 5mm, again depending on the size and thickness of the snake. More than likely, you will have hit the caudal vein which will make the extraction very easy. If not, you will still be able to extract a decent sample, but at a much slower rate. A good sample should consist of at least 0.1 cc of blood. Before transferring your sample to a container, make sure that you first use a lysis buffer in the container to preserve the blood. I hope this information helps you out. Good luck!!!
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