AMPHIBIANS 47 



specimens from different localities in different jars, or wrap those 

 from separate localities in thin cloth to avoid mixing them. Each 

 specimen should be labeled with the locality, date, collector, and 

 also any observations on food, habitat preferences, or breeding. 



The best labels are small rectangles of pure sheet tin or sheet 

 lead on which a number corresponding to that in a catalog is 

 scratched deeply so that it will remain legible. Metal stamps for 

 making numbers are better if these are available. Thread this 

 label through a hole punched in one end and tie securely to the 

 specimen. In the catalog opposite the number write locality, date, 

 collector, and other circumstances under which the specimen was 

 found. If metal labels are not available, use a slip of tough paper 

 that will not dissolve in the fluid, and write the data on it in soft 

 black pencil. Place this in the jar with the specimen. Be sure 

 to make a label that will be legible when the specimen finally 

 arrives at its destination, as this is of the greatest importance to 

 those who will later study your collections. Do not use ordinary 

 ink, as it will dissolve in the preserving fluid. If specimens are 

 carried about before packing for final shipment, wrap in cloth 

 so that the label will not rub and become illegible. 



It is possible to ship very small specimens in vials or small 

 bottles filled with fluid, packed in boxes in straw or other packing 

 material. In such cases ink may be used on labels pasted on the 

 outside of the bottle, but experience has taught that soft pencil 

 is better, as fluid from a broken bottle may render ink labels 

 illegible. 



Keep the jars of preserved specimens in a dark place, as light 

 bleaches the original skin colors very quickly. Hot weather delays 

 thorough preservation of specimens. The jars should be inspected 



