Salmonella Warning

Be careful how close you get to get to reptiles and amphibians. The Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division is advising the public to be very cautious if handling reptiles and amphibians, as they can be carriers of Salmonella bacteria. Whenever possible, wild reptiles and amphibians should be left in the wild unless they are being harvested according to state regulations. The U.S. Center for Disease Control reports that each year, Salmonella causes an estimated 1.2 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and 450 deaths in the U.S. Although most people recover without treatment, the severity of the illness can lead to hospitalization. For more information, contact your local DNR office.