As a child in Ottawa, I spent a great deal of time watching nature documentaries and educational shows on animals of all kinds and exploring the ‘great outdoors’ in my own cautious, yet ever-curious fashion. I gradually began keeping ‘typical’ pets like hamsters and goldfish, but it wasn’t until 2004 that I developed a true passion for reptiles and amphibians. I began at Little Ray’s as a volunteer and became a member of the staff, doing everything from bug shows to corporate/special events, travelling displays, and birthday parties. In my three years spent at the zoo, I’ve done more shows than I can count, have had many adventures, and continue to learn and be fascinated about the creatures and wildlife that we live amongst.
I now keep my own little collection at home, breeding geckos and pythons in my spare time and catching stray crickets in the living room. When I’m not in animal ‘mode’, I’m a contributing writer for Nature Canada, a member-based non-profit conservation organization in Ottawa, a freelance writer, and as always, a full-time music junkie and musician.
Remember, every creature has its own place in the world, so leave it alone, and it probably won’t bite or defecate on you.