Educational Programs for Schools and Organizations, Based in Terre Haute, Indiana
Monty's Reptiles is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. We have a customizable presentation for your school group or organization or any gathering that just wants hands-on learning about reptiles, including both native and exotic species. We focus on the ecological niches filled by various reptiles. Another subject we cover is conservation and regulation of reptiles in Indiana. We also discuss the suitability of several popular species as pets, and the effect the pet trade has on wild populations.
This educational program is a free service; however, your donations are greatly appreciated and will help keep this program possible for years to come. Visit our Monty's Needs page to make a donation online. Programs in other states can run 200 + dollars an hour; however, we think it best to keep it free and take donations as people are willing. We are willing to travel outside Vigo County for gas compensation. Gas compensation is calculated on the same basis as the state calculates their mileage, which is $0.36 a mile.
One of the focus areas of our program is the discussion of how many popular snakes and lizards are not suitable as pets for most people. Many have extremely particular care requirements or are just difficult to handle. Some need incredibly large amounts of room or eat so much that they are financially difficult to provide for. Also, many reptile species can live for many years, making them a long-term commitment. Some tortoises, in fact, can live even longer than humans (over 100 years), so that not only will you be caring for it for the rest of your life, you must make provisions for it after you are gone. These are important considerations to make BEFORE selecting a pet.
We can also arrange adoptions of animals that can no longer be cared for, in order to give them a safe and happy new home. We request that any animal that needs to be surrendered comes with a suitable enclosure that they are currently being housed in, or a surrendering fee if no enclosure will be donated. Any other donated enclosures, supplies, and/or financial contributions would be greatly appreciated.
