Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey guys, I know alot of you out there are like myself and are interested and have many kinds of reptiles. I would like to share my knowledge with kids and adults about all the myths and phony stuff that people believe about reptiles especially snakes. My questions are what are some good animals to bring along that won't suffer much stress. I personally have now 2 small very tame alligators, 2 balls, 2 beaded dragons, leopard gecko, sulcata tortoise. And access to a 12 foot Burm, very tame. I live in PA and worry about the temps around this time of year to bring anything out. I always get asked to do kid parties and just don't feel right taken my animals out and put threw the stress. What do you guys do? Also any advise would be appreciated. Thanks

It really depends on the animal more than the species. Too much handling and being around kids etc, can stress out any animal, reptile or otherwise.

A good reptile will be one that is very calm and can be handled by other people and still show no signs of stress, even being handled by nervous people. It is good to keep sessions short for each animal, rotate between different snakes, giving them time to relax between being handled. Sometimes it is best to just let people touch while you hold the animal yourself (present the body or tail for touching while keeping the head near you, helps prevents bites).

Having done a few shows myself with my local reptile organization, usually weekend shows, it can get pretty chaotic and the best thing to do is worry about the animal.

definitely be good at recognizing signs of stress, posturing etc. If a snake or lizard shows signs of stress, put it away, take the next animal out. The stressed one may be fine to bring out shortly after a rest.

Large snakes and lizards, I will recommend being extra careful with. Don't handle them alone, have an assistant or three nearby just in case. Even with its mouth taped shut (or elastic bands etc) a crocodilian can do serious damage thrashing about with its tail or claws. It may be best to only 'show' not allow touching with the bigger or potentially more dangerous animals. A bite from a corn snake isn't' as shocking as being nailed by a 12 foot Burmese python.
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PHLdyPayne

thanks for that, any tips or tricks you can suggest? any more input would be great too.