What started your passion for reptiles and getting involved in the hobby?
When I was 6 years old, I was given a little Green Tree Snake. Little did I know that was the start of a lifelong passion. Throughout my younger years I kept multiple species and really learnt as I went. When I was around 12 years old, I was introduced to a family friend who also kept reptiles. This was my first real introduction to the reptile community. He opened my eyes to all the different morphs, species and breeders but also showed me Aussie Pythons and Snakes forum. It is from that point I was hooked! I spent every waking minute reading and learning on those forums.
What age did you start your journey?
At 6 years old.
What species do you keep?
Just a couple LOL.
Currently have a large collection of Antaresia but also a few Woma’s, Olives, Carpets, GTPs and some other little bits.
What is your favourite species and why?
This is a pretty hard one.
I love GTPs due to the fact they are the perfect display animal and everyone loves them. But I do love my Antaresia.
Do you breed your animals, and what is your secret?
Yes, these days I don’t breed nearly as much as a few years ago. Given the current state of the world and also some life goals I have taken a big step back in terms of breeding. Secrets? Just don’t give up. And lots and lots of rats!
What would you tell your younger self about the hobby?
Don’t count your eggs until they hatch. Don’t breed for the sake of it, breed for a specific goal or reason. Back yourself!
Any projects you’re working on or towards?
I have been spending a lot of time on husbandry of late. Updating racks, enclosures, incubation methods and also record keeping. I struggle with records and paperwork and my good mate Kurt at Progressive Pythons Australia has been working on a program called Husbandry Wizard. This program will not only help myself but 1000s of keepers worldwide to keep track of their projects. It’s something I’m very excited about.
Another project I have been working on is the Leopard Macs (Spotted Pythons). The leopard gene reduces the black pigment and gives the animal really nice tri colour blotches. I have been working on this pure mac line for close to 9 years now and finally starting to see the end results. Big few seasons ahead so keep an eye out.
What is your favourite pairing?
This season it would have to be some of the Leopard (Antaresia maculosa) pairings. Just another step in the right direction.
Any advice for people wanting to get a reptile as a pet?
Do it, you won’t regret it. Just make sure you research and find a breeder willing to help. So much information out there these days to make process easier.
Where can people find out more about you and your animals?
People can find me on Facebook and Instagram. We had the website running but haven’t bred enough the last season or so to warrant keeping it up.
Burgers! Actually, pizza is pretty good
Alcohol has to be an Amaretto Sour and day to day an Ice Caramel Latte (love my girly drinks 😊)
An old Reptiles Australia magazine
Both
A Green Tree Python
Find a mentor! So many people have helped me get to where I am today but two people I can always count on are Kurt Livesley and Peter Birch. Two of the greatest humans around and the hobby is lucky to have them.
Jake Thomas - Unreal Reptiles
Facebook and Instagram
