Reptile Concerns Accompany Jonas

Winter storm Jonas is ramping up to become the event of the year in the Mid-Atlantic.  Granted blockbuster status earlier this week, and added honorary Jonas brother credentials, the storm has all the makings of a "celebrity to be".

However, it's not all smiles and sunshine.  The National Weather Service has issued a Lizard Warning from Friday through Sunday.  

It seems the cold temperatures and snow would be dangerous for these cold blooded species.  We asked Art Beckman, herpetologist from the Philadelphia Zoo why he felt a lizard warning was issued and not a snake warning.  He explained,"while this IS an unusual warning, I can only imagine it's the legs and toes issues.  Lizards have legs and toes.  They are much more susceptible to frostbite and winter related set backs.  Snakes are all core, and the core is the last part of the body to be affected."

Signs that your reptile may be suffering and need a warm rock and sun would be a loss of color, irritated look, and deformed toes, as the above example illustrates.

As people prepare for the weather, we sent our staff photographer out this morning and he was able to visit about 35 grocery stores in the area, and photograph what we believe are the last of the milk, bread and eggs that our region will see until late Monday.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated as Jonas makes its way into the area.