EXPRESS & ECHO (Exeter, UK) 23 February 08 Attenborough Effect Spells Big Business For Reptile Shop
They are cold-blooded, have skin covered in scales and have no furry little faces, hair or feathers - but everyone loves them now.
It's called the David Attenborough Effect.
Not that the great BBC naturalist looks like a reptile, but his latest series Life in Cold Blood has given a new lease of life to lizards, skinks, and snakes.
Just ask Steve Phillips, who runs the South West Reptile shop on East Wonford Hill, Heavitree, Exeter.
Since the launch of Life in Cold Blood there has been a rush of prospective buyers who are keen to take home something that is usually found under a rock munching a bug. Steve said: "I have to say that with the start of the series there has been an increase in people coming in whether for pets or at least for more information about them and about keeping them."
Steve is quick to point out the costs and problems of owning creatures that might require special diets and the right heat and light for 24 hours a day.
And he has to shake his head when it comes to one of Sir David's favourites in the wild, the iguana.
Steve said: "There are virtually no captive bred iguana and those that are live in terrible conditions in South America, so we will have nothing to do with that."
However, there is still plenty for the reptile-lover to choose from at South West Reptiles.
Topping the list for the first timer could be the leopard gecko, a neat looking low-maintenance lizard-like animal which, with cage, heat pad, food and full care manual, would set you back £95. For the more skilled there is the bearded dragon.
"These are slightly bigger and more sophisticated than leopard geckos and are best kept in gangs of four," explained Steve. "If you want to buy one it will cost you £200 and a long lecture from me - but four will only cost about £120, because it is better to keep them together."
Steve is expecting a rush on snakes next week, Sir David's next subject. "He is a national treasure and it is refreshing to see a naturalist on TV who puts the emphasis on the animal and not himself," said Steve.

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