Ever since I can remember I have been fascinated by reptiles. That fascination grew and grew until now I can officially declare it a passion. A passion for educating young and old minds alike about a group of animals that for as far back as American history has extended have been hated or eaten by a majority. This hasn't always been, many ancient cultures had much more respect for these cold blooded creatures which gives me hope that in years to come the same sort of respect will be found in our great culture. And there is hope. As I use my photography and knowledge to lecture and present across the west I have found more and more people are becoming interested and leaving irrational fears aside take an interest in the subject. Thats my goal here. Through my various reptilian exploits my goal is the same and my goal is simple... to make everyday folks re-think their previous thoughts about reptiles and amphibians and take on my stance-- Fascination.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Capturing the beauty of reptiles on camera has always been a passion of mine. I have recently displayed that passion full force winning a number of recent photo contests, seeing my work published in 3 new books and 2 magazines, and doing set photography for Animal Planet and Discovery Channel productions. For more on myt photographic ventures see the photography section of this site.
THE NAFHA
Most recently in the field I was proud to help co-found (along with herpetologists Jeff Lemm, Kent Van Sooy and others) and work for the North American Field Herpetology association. Here I held the titles of Education Specialist and International Board Member for the organizations first three years as I watched it go from a small trip I planned in Cabazon, California now to a nation wide organization recognized by zoos and institutions alike.
VENOM RESEARCH
My recent work in herpetological related toxicology has been one of my more fascinating ventures. The most recent research projects I have been involved in are: Atractaspis Venom and Antivenin Research, Neurotoxic Locality Variants in Crotalus helleri. These projects were lead leading hereptologists Donald Schultz and Dr. Bryan Fry.
Let Me Introduce Myself...
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
I am currently preparing a speaking series on Atractaspis husbandry and venom which will begin later summer 2009 and cover a number of engagements including the International Herpetolgical Symposium as well as a number of major reptile societies through out the west. My Acrochord research is all but finished and a series of presentations and magazine articles will be ready for release late 2009.
RESEARCH
This is the third year of my Chionactis occipitalis occipitalis. Last year was met with great success as I became the first person ever to successfully breed these small ldesert dwellers in captivity. I hope this year to repeat my sucess and raise the young to adulthood producing the first ever F2 offspring.
