>>When I read posts, the contributions that I seem to be drawn to are those who COMMUNICATE themselves clearly in a concise, professional and educated manner. If you can't express yourself in a clear and intelligent manner, regardless of your level of expertise, I take ZERO stock in that person's opinion. That sounds quite pompous of me but that is the way I am. I believe in the power of education because I am living proof that with education comes opportunity.

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>>Someone said that a person who has kept a single animal of a species for a prolonged period of time ins't considered experienced worthy of offering input on a particular subject (because they haven't worked with many of the same species; even if that means for a much shorter time frame)....I tend to disagree a bit with that only because someone who has kept a single animal for a prolonged period of time has demonstrated that they have the commitment and dedication to give that animal the proper care and they have also demonstrated that they have mastered certain basic husbandry requrements for that species (and I realize that EVERY snake is an individual, HOWEVER, keeping a normal burm compared to any of the high end burms is EXACTLY the same). I have FAR more respect (and admiration) to the individual/family who has raised a burm from birth, kept it throughout the years, becomes "one" with that animal in knowing every little nuance of that animal's personality and needs. Through thick and thin they have committed to giving that animal the best in care. Oftentimes, these "single species owners" have discovered things that many of us who keep many animals have never noticed. Some of these "out of the box" contributions have proven to be wonderful contributions and things that I have taken to stock in my own approach.

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>>BUT, I will also say that when you have the opportunity to interact with a variety of animals, particularly of the same species, on a LONG TERM BASIS (so, this alludes to those with both long term experience, perhaps 10 years or more, PLUS knowledge and exposure to many herps) you do certainly have an edge when it comes to being considered an "expert".

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>>In the end, though, none of us are experts....do we truly understand these animals? Do we really know what makes them tick? Perhaps, but then again, perhaps not. We are still learning so much.

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>>I have kept herps for many, many years and now on a professional level which I am truly blessed for...I wouldn't consider myself an expert as much as someone who has developed an instinct for this hobby and someone who is 100% committed, dedicated and always striving to improve my knowledge and skills.

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>>Rob Carmichael, Curator

>>The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm

>>City of Lake Forest Parks & Recreation (IL)
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Believe in yourself and your abilities and you can accomplish anything.

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