31
Amphibians and Reptiles in Essex; Provisional
Distribution Maps
During the late autumn of 1983 the Passmore
Edwards Museum will publish on behalf of the
Essex Biological Records Centres, provisional
distribution maps for amphibians and reptiles
in the County of Essex. Accordingly, records
for recent years are sought, particularly for
the north-west of the County, which is much
under-recorded.
Observers should send information on the species
recorded, the year of the record, and an exact
location. Ideally this will involve a grid
reference to at least four figures, but those
who are unable to manage this should not be put
off submitting records with the location defined
by a few words. Records of feral species, such
as, for example, terrapins, are required as are
records of native species. Caution should be
employed in the identification of newts; only
adult males in the March - April period can be
reliably determined. If in doubt, send in the
record as "newt species", and preferablv accompany
this with a description.
Records should reach me on a postcard please, by
1st August, 1983, if possible-, at Passmore
Edwards Museum, Romford Road, Stratford, London,
E15 1LZ.
We will not receive records over the telephone,
particularly since the Office staff have a great
many other duties to carry out.
Colin W. Plant
Assistant Curator
Natural Sciences
(Biology)