Stop Blaming Reptile Breeders - Here's Why Your Animal Died or Failed to Thrive.

The truth is many new reptile keepers often make huge mistakes right from the start when getting a new animal. Please remember, these animals live a certain way when they are babies. When you disregard our advice, and choose to do things your way, the animal can suffer. We encourage everyone to have amazing setups, but you must transition the animal slowly. We get a huge amount of inquiries from keepers eho bought animals from anither source. They are looking for advice and often fail to realize there may be some basic things being missed!
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[@katlady567]

I love that you address not just husbandry needs, but the emotional and intellectual needs of the animals. You are one of the few (only?) You Tubers who speaks about the animals being thinking and intelligent beings. We need more of that mindset in the hobby.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank uuu. K

[@SugaryPhoenixxx]

I always take that as a sign of someone being an expert with their animals. Anyone can read up on what an animals basic needs are. But only someone who truly understands an animal can tell you what the animal is thinking/feeling/wanting.

[@bernardsouza814]

Too many people humanize animals and think they require comforts we like.

[@Bootyjuicesr]

@@bernardsouza814 yeah especially reptiles lol

[@KiyoshoA]

lol the lack of that annoys me to no end. I said to some reptile hobbyists online once that leopard geckos have simple needs, and they fired back with "We don't even know if they have needs or feelings". Bruh. How dense do you have to be.

[@fredygump5578]

So true. Not "just' reptiles either! It applies to cats and dogs and any other pet. Like people adopt a cat, let their 3 little kids chase it around the house unsupervised, don't give the cat a safe place to hide...and then are upset that the cat doesn't like kids.

[@cherylpiotrowski5425]

Thank you, I've bought several animals from you, the latest a retic and by following your videos they are all happy, healthy animals. People can notice the difference in your animals compared to animals I've gotten elsewhere. Great job! People should listen to you. Thank you.

[@rmarvel169]

We are surrounded by ignorance & my guess is, that'll never change smdh

[@carinachristel8563]

Amen.

[@mirawind9126]

Putting a new cat in the bathroom and leaving it the hell alone for a few hours to sleep and smell builds confident life long companions! "But I want them to sleep with me!" Yeah that's a 1 night stand not a relationship.

[@fredygump5578]

@@mirawind9126 When I adopted my cat, the people warned it might take days for him to warm up. I let him out and ignored him, and 1hr later he walked up to me, meowing, rubbing against my legs, rolling on his back. (I don't think they were very good with cats...)

[@arazlam4754]

"ah i see you've managed to get this animal to thrive and reproduce! Let me just disregard everything you have to say about its care"- some people 🙄 Great video on the often overlooked topic of keeper/care transitioning,

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Well said!!!!!!! Yes!!!!! K

[@WastedTalent-]

I worked in pet stores for 20 years (it's been 15 years since) and what you're saying is absolutely true. The big thing is trying to break a person from handling their new pet. I know, it's tempting because you're excited, but just leave it alone! This would be a small mom and pop shop where animals end up staying with us for months, sometimes, years. It's not Petco where they're usually in and out. So, I know this animals was healthy, eating, and a sweetheart before it went home with someone. I never sent an iffy animal out the door with anyone. I treated them as if they were my pets when I wasn't at home. I'd get angry phone calls from people because the ball python isn't eating that day or the next. Yes, they've been handling it, taking it outside to show their friends, etc. They'd go into an AOL chat room and get told that everything I said was wrong. Remember, everyone on the internet is an expert! "You're supposed to handle them so they get used to you!" "That ball python should be eating right away!" Then, they take it to the vet, and as exactly as Kevin said, it gets tortured. I'd give up and take these animals back, but thankfully, they'd eventually find real homes with customers I knew well or people who would listen to me.

[@aurieamoore5823]

I mean it really sucks that you'd end up caving and having to refund a person for an animal that has no issues at all besides the owner's own thickheaded-ness. But from a snake point of view, I'm so glad you were able to get a lot of those animals out of that situation. People who act like that and ignore all help and advice usually end up as reptile neglecters/abusers and no animal deserves that. I know someone with a roommate who owns three snakes all in dirty fish tanks without any clean water and one of them straight up just DOESN'T HAVE A HEAT SOURCE. No humidity and 1 tropical snake. It's literally so awful. And my friend who lives with her is a snake expert in comparison. She keeps gtp's and bci's and old world rat snakes in gorgeous bio setups with space, clutter, enrichment, and every need met. This chick, even when seeing my friends awesome setups and healthy animals, refuses to change anything related to her two poor neglected corn snakes and one very much in trouble neglected ball python. It's literally call animal control level neglect. Like, it sucks so hard to have to give someone money for an animal they were ruining, but it could have been so much worse had those animals been made to stay in that environment with a total moron for an owner. So on behalf of every snake you took back out of that situation, thank you from the bottom of my noodle-loving heart.

[@coreyhamby2989]

Lol. Especially with a ball python. I have a ball python that eats maybe 1 time a month on average over a year. That's why I am a little surprised Ball pythons are always sold as the pinnacle beginner snake. I disagree considering new animal owners get very worried if their animal isn't eating immediately. They don't realize a ball python will routinely go off food for long periods and be perfectly healthy. Same goes for the people that say bearded dragons are the best beginner lizard. I disagree with this as.well. They can be picky eaters and getting the proper amount of temp, uv and vitamins can be very difficult to dial in and keep healthy. Compared to the more forgiving leopard gecko or corn snake. Or most any colubrid.

[@donnabostwick9694]

I'm not a reptile person and I certainly would not have one in my home. I watch you because I like to learn about everything. That being said, you gave me significant pause for thought about how I integrate even hamsters into my home. I see now that I'm not giving the animal the right start and I'm going to change that. My daughter is getting a rabbit and I'm going to use your tips to make sure it has a trusting, good start. Thank you!! Looking forward to next video

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Love it!!!!!!! Thank you. K

[@TheChill001]

my neighbour had a burmese python more or less forced onto him because there were no shelters in our area that wanted to handle a reptile like that (they aren't exactly common housepets in Belgium), but he's researched the heck out of how to handle it, watched a whole lot of youtube just to have some good tips and now we're five years later and he hasn't regretted getting a license to hold a burmese as a pet. It's just a four meters long bundle of utter joy

[@hi_tech_reptiles]

It always blows my mind when people think having 5 animals over 20 years is the same experience level as someone with thousands of animals over 10+ years, of specific species or whatever else. Hell, even hundreds over 5 years as a breeder is so much varied experience comparatively. Thanks Kevin (and Donny), another amazing video!

[@houndgirl7365]

You have to remember though that is not always the case. People have to be willing to observe and listen to their animals needs. A person could be breeding a multitude of animals and not know jack. I have met those type of people while working as a vet tech and though they are absolutely wrong they think they are right. Same goes for reptiles. It just depends as the key to an amazing breeder such as they are is the willingness to never stop learning and never stop listening to what they animals are trying to convey.

[@ladymiaeriksson5809]

I used to have a bit of a problem with getting my ballpythons to eat. I been thought to use a feedingbox to feed my snakes. Never had a problem using a feedingbox for ny cornsnakes. Then someone finally gave me the advice to feed the ballpythons in their terrarium. And that was the end of my feedingproblems. Both my ballpythons now eat well and are happy (I think) and healthy. So when I took over a hognose this summer that was and still is huffing and puffing like crazy I decided to not even try a feedingbox. And he eats without any issues. Now he actually came with his terrarium so he never had to get used to a new terrarium.

[@loriw2661]

When I got my 1st Ball Python I listened to Kevin. Even though I was a Vet Tech for years and worked for a Vet that specialized in reptiles. Why? Because my experience told me he was right. He started out in a small, plain enclosure with clutter. I left him alone for a week. He ate the first time I fed him and he’s super healthy and confident. He was very shy initially but now I can cover his head with my hands and he’s just fine. Thank you Kevin!!! 🐍❤️🐍

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Love it!!!! Thank you ! K

[@amylongfield9650]

The story about the python that was euthanized for no reason really got to me. Through no fault of these animals are they sent to people who don’t do enough research into what they’re getting into. When I got my first snake I let him acclimate for a week without interaction and he has come so far 2 months later bc I respect his needs over mine. I wish more people understood your message.

[@EarthWalkerOne]

It's such a blessing to be able to have all this information and advice readily available. As a kid, my local pet store owner tried his best, just wasn't a reptile expert(almost no one was pre-internet). I'd walk down to the store though and the owner would spend hours calling other shops, breeders, distributors, vets, and the nearby zoos to try to help me with any animals, or field questions about ones I was interested in getting. He told me to avoid live feedings whenever possible and that was almost 40 yrs ago. I also remember him saying "Hey, I'll take your money, I got bills to pay, but I think you'd be better off without that iguana/nile monitor/reticulated python/etc... you'll be in HS soon, maybe college, getting a giant snake is like getting married, and I'm sure you probably want to travel the world a bit, date a few girls before settling down." and boy was he right. Noah's Pets was the best, wish I could remember the owner's name.

[@sosoblackfeather6504]

I adopted a Green Iguana, my oldest picked her or should I she picked him out❤ and named her Li Mai. She was so tiny, always wanting to be held & enjoyed watching the world around her, as well as being a part of it. Now she’s 5yrs old, little over 5’ long snd still makes an impression on people who come to visit. The reason she was so underfed, lethargic was due to the store having another baby iguana in the same enclosure & that one was the dominant one who was getting all the food. I believe she knew we could give her a chance to not only survive, a good life as well and we are. So anyone who is reading this, please cognitively listen to what Kevin is saying. Meaning: use your frontal lobe of your brain aka the new brain. Write notes down on paper (that will never get old), do the 3 R rule: Research, Research, Research.

[@heidimj1380]

Agree! No exaggeration, I researched almost 30 years before finally getting a snake, and believe you me, I asked everyone for suggestions including NERD. I had to make sure I had as much info as possible, and it's surprisingly easy to tell who you can trust and who you might not want to. Also, you can't just wing it and follow instructions on a pre printed pamphlet.

[@Springfield-eo8jl]

I got out of the reptile hobby because of so many toxic people with victim mentalities. You guys are awesome, keep up the great work!

[@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING]

Animal "lovers* are whiny in general

[@MultiMillionMeows]

Why would you stop keeping reptiles because of other people...? My snake is my best friend.

[@melissaf.5898]

I can imagine how frustrating and stressful this must be to Kevin to know one of his babies isn’t doing good cuz of the new owners. I can’t believe how many people get animals without doing proper research. It’s really sad that the animals suffer bc of it. Please do way more research than u think it needed. And don’t stop researching once u have the animal. So much great advice in this video. Kevin has a longer older video on how to unbox ur new reptile that is great too if u want to see more. Btw, it took me 47 seconds before I noticed the baby AWM on Kevin’s hat. 😆💜☮️. Thanks Donny and Kevin

[@Vcaser]

This is fantastic!! I am not a reptile keeper, but your wisdom is universal. I have 2 horses, and let me tell you horse people are CRAZY! They will spend $$$$$$ on animals completely inappropriate for their skill level, or they will get a lame animal from a kill pen and they don’t know what the hell they’re doing. Won’t take competent advice, and the animal inevitably suffers. Equines, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish - all require such specialized care, we MUST cultivate and listen to knowledgeable keepers!!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank you. K

[@kathyflorcruz552]

I'm glad you said this about auction rescues. Recently saw a recovery video of a horse & comments under it were brutal chastising EVERYONE who mentioned that these treatments & procedures are very costly. Most people simply cannot afford to rehab very sick or injured animals & they should not take them on. To then guilt animal lovers who have to chose euthanasia to end suffering is really evil too. It's absolutely devastating to have to go that route. 💔

[@krystenvaughn9864]

I cannot express just how grateful I am for you showing and sharing all of this, I want a hognose eventually and had no idea you needed to kind of quarantine them first, also thought big enclosures were a luxury that made your reptile happier because of more space, this was super educational, and the noodlekebab was precious! Tragic that they put their snake down when it could've been prevented with a little bit of knowledge, you're going to save a lot of animals for videos like this where you teach people how to care for their companions

[@tkreitler]

Kevin is a wealth of knowledge. I got my first hognose this past year. I prepared a full size enclosure a month in advance to make sure it was perfect. It may have been perfect for an adult hognose but it was too much for a baby and she was too stressed eat. I moved her to a much smaller enclosure with very small hides and she seemed happier. Even after doing this, it still took some trial and error to get her eating regularly. Best of luck to you.

[@kylieshaye6562]

I imagine Kevin has helped thousands of people create meaningful relationships with their reptiles. That's absolutely priceless. Kevin is such a gift to the community.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Very kind! K

[@dvlexotics2177]

Kevin is one of the founding fathers of the reptile industry anybody that doesn't listen to Kevin is a moron. He helps as many people as he can and always has even way back when everything was a secret in the hobby Kevin always told it all and helped as much as he could. Imo the most knowledgeable person in the game.,

[@Rotsuoy]

A lot of what Kevin says can be applied to all kinds of animals, not just reptiles. It's really amazing what you can do with an animal if you give it everything it needs instead of what you think it needs.

[@drk_xlvr07]

if you only knew the real truth lol

[@johnyoung6161]

As soon as I saw the title I knew for some reason there would be a Boiga... 50 years at this myself and I still can't help but learn when I watch your videos. Top drawer!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank uuu ! K

[@marjoleinvnoort6961]

I bought a ballpython after 2 days I noticed the breathing wasn’t good. Definitely respiratory infection. I told the breeder and went to the vet . I’m now treating it. I have it in a rack. I already noticed Improvement. She is more alert now the mouth is closed. And I don’t hear her breathing. Love your videos. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@JamesM527]

This is so great especially for beginners. Today so many people hate on tubs and racks but don't realize that many species of snakes thrive in racks for all the reasons mentioned in this video.

[@mjhjlhwehcfhb]

Thank you so much! Biggest thing I took away from the video is I have a LOT more to lean BEFORE trying to adopt a scaled "baby"! And yes I believe that any living being you bring into the home is a family member.

[@raphymartinez]

Casually pulls out one of the most beautiful reptiles ever. Biggest flex and I love it

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Haaaa haaaaaaa. Was just trying to Keep people interested! K

[@CelticBalls]

Thank you so much for doing this video. We are actually midway through a series on this on our channel. Since we are a small channel, it's so nice to see you with a large presence on social media doing a much needed video.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Glad it was helpful! K

[@nikobiege7015]

Kevin and Dustin helped me out a few times with my monitors. All you gotta do is listen to them and do exactly what they say! Apparently most people either can’t or don’t want to follow simple directions….

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Yes!!!!!!!!!! Exactly!!!! K

[@tonyolo4591]

I almost made this same mistake. when i got my baby boa i put him in a giant enclosure, fit with all the trimmings. luckily for me, my Boa ignored 90% of the enclosure, and stayed under a halved cardboard tube for the first few weeks. i had sense enough to leave him alone, but only because he was in shed. if he wasn't in shed when he arrived i may have done something like that. after he shed (8 days later) i fed him, and left him alone. i didn't start handling him til about 3 weeks after he arrived.

[@1spoiledbabygirl]

Kevin, you're such a wonderful person inside and out. The reptile community is lucky to have you in it! I don't own any reptiles at the moment, but I feel confident I could determine the right pet for me and how to care for and calm said pet confidently thanks to all of your videos and wealth of knowledge you share. Thank you for all you do! I wish you & the NERD fam a happy new year!🥂🎉 Much love & respect always!! 🙏🏼💜

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank you! K

[@tracysweatt5401]

Such great info. We’ve gotten Ball Pythons shipped to us, each time I’ve sat and just held the bag helping to warm them and introduce my scent. Both of our girls we had shipped over the course of a few minutes climbed up to the opening and slowly out onto me. The one we got first is super comfortable with me putting my hand into her environment and scooping her up. She will curl up and just lay in my hands and fall back asleep. The second one we haven’t had as long but she’s really good about me being in her enclosure, and has gotten a lot less nervous about me reaching in to pick her up. She’s still a little bit “flighty” sometimes when being handled, but we just keep working with her for short periods so that we keep building those threads of trust as Kevin says.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

In tune with the animals! K

[@heatherdix778]

I'm only 5 minutes in to this video and it's already golden. This is such valuable information for everyone, new keepers especially. Good stuff 👏 👍

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank you !

[@LuckyStone888]

You need to understand the needs of the individual snake first before you decide what you think is best. That is the problem with people they would rather go with what they think or what they read and forget to pay attention to what the snake is indicating what they need. Perfect video

[@pikabolt5196]

I know that while I’m fully equipped to take care of and thrive with birds successfully, I wouldn’t be able to give a reptile the care it needs. It’s not that I couldn’t get the animal set up right, but due to my own anxieties and trauma at a young age with snakes (thanks, field trip idiots) I’m too terrified of being bitten to be able to really trust it, and that’s not fair on them I love coming here to learn though, there’s so much information to soak up and I love it. Just because I’m fully aware that I can’t give a reptile the loving home it deserves doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy these beautiful animals and marvel at the bonds you have with them. You’re showing me a completely different side of them than what I’ve experienced and it’s really opened my eyes. Thank you for what you guys do

[@fastbreak0822]

Yo Kev......... Just want to give you an atta boy and support for creating impactful content and sharing your wealth of experience to the masses...... Anyone watching NERD content should be extremely appreciative and follow the information you are giving freely as most content created is just for entertainment to draw in likes and subscriptions solely for personal monetary gains..... This acclimation clip is a massive diamond in a bag of graniite pebbles..... Appreciate your unselfish nature brother...... Respect .... Nerd Rules......

[@melissaf.5898]

Well said!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

You are wonderfully kind!!! K

[@tomshepherd6375]

I'm a new breeder myself starting with bearded dragons and not long ago sold off my first clutch kept 4 back. Every one i sold to i would tell them exactly how i maintained my dragons and how they should continue to do so till they got much older. Also told them they should do some research of their own to better learn on care but would offer them help and tips if they needed it. You are correct on how some people do not listen to your advice and then you get blamed for their fail. Sold three to a pet store and told them do not put them in with other bearded dragons yet they did and they lost one. Another sold to a friend of a friend who did not listen to what i had to say when they had issues got upset at me for telling them how they should raise their bearded dragon ( they lost it as well ) out of a clutch of 22 only 2 died cause of not taking advice rest are still growing and doing great. But yes it sucks getting the blame for their failure.

[@biacosme6188]

Entendi. Então e necessário ter uma certa experiência com esses animais?

[@tomshepherd6375]

@@biacosme6188 Com qualquer animal, é sempre melhor fazer pesquisas sobre eles antes de tentar criar um. Vídeos como esses são ótimas fontes.

[@biacosme6188]

@@tomshepherd6375 obrigada por me responder 😘

[@NewEnglandReptile]

I also have my employees that are spending a great deal of time helping people that bought animals from other people. It’s getting very hard to get the right info to be understood! K

[@StephDish]

Thank you for putting these types of videos out. I've learned so much from you over the years. It's been a little hard for a while to watch your channel with all the controversial content put out but seeing you do your educational content is so refreshing.

[@leeladouceur7007]

Sounds like you have had some frustrating experiences. I can't imagine how heart breaking it has been. I was very greatful for the information provided by the humane society and the foster mom in regards to our family's newest member. I had to prove that i had the basic knowledge and understanding of husbandry before i was approved to be allowed to adopt. I am still learning and i really appreciate your videos. Highly educational and fun to watch. Thanks for all you do!

[@jennifermelvin8038]

I truly do NOT understand why someone would not listen to you Kevin!! You’re very knowledgeable & kind!! I feel really bad for that poor snake that the person euthanized😡. Some people think they want a pet, whether it be a dog, cat, snake, etc but they aren’t really ready or can’t handle the responsibility of caring for the animal! It’s work to take care of your pet!! It’s a labor of love and if you can’t do it, don’t make an animal suffer…do you have a return policy? I would have taken my snake back and given that fool his money back… just sad😢😢😢

[@ratdude010]

I used to work at a pet store. Giving the fool his money back would only encourage his bad behavior. We used to constantly have customers bringing in male hamsters, which had their eyes torn off etc. because they would mix the two together, despite the fact they advised against it. Some, would get their money back after dropping an animal and breaking its leg. In all these cases, the store would eat the vet bill and the customer would happily get their money back. Despite this generous return policy, the store would constantly not have the budget to feed the animals. Slight irony in everything.

[@Sh1roNekoshi]

Some people don't do the research required. I had a acquaintance of mine solely feed their rabbit carrots, and the rabbit was kept in a small cage. As long as it's fed and alive right? Grr.

[@aurieamoore5823]

@@Sh1roNekoshi 😰 🤢🤬 some people make me sick.

[@Sh1roNekoshi]

@@aurieamoore5823 I agree.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

We sometimes take stuff back when we see it’s not a reasonable fit. K. Thank uuu !

[@karyannfontaine8757]

Thank you Kevin for your advice. You do what I have always done to welcome a snake new to me. I guess you have to have empathy for the snake and think of them, never yourself. My oldest snake is 20 years old now. I always watch your programs and respect your experience and the directions you give us. I attribute my snake handling and knowledge to you.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Love this!!!! K

[@philcavallini9657]

This is common with big fish especially the predatory ones that are an apex predator in their home environment. It may take several days to a month for it to settle in and begin to eat. Consistency and simplicity is the best way, period!

[@tomix3568]

Wow, Kevin blows my mind every time with his brilliance and understanding of reptiles.

[@themadhousediaries]

I followed your videos about the first snake years ago. It has helped me so much over the years without fussing over the outlook of the enclosure. You're the lizard king Kevin. You can do anything.. I can so relate to what you are saying because I know people who drive around the town with their poor ball python sprawled on the dashboard of the car. The poor snake didn't make it past one month. People get exotic animals for the kicks and status and power show. I wish they'd rethink their actions around that Animal before acquiring it. Bad husbandry can even kill human babies. So much for exotic animals. Thank you for teaching us important stuff all the time. Love you man. You're my rep rock ❣️🥰

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Verrrrrry kind!!!! K

[@katiekane5247]

Happens with certain large breed dogs too. People get them to seem tough & encourage aggression for the same reason. Perfect set up for some poor dog losing their life & people getting soured on certain breeds.

[@MintyFarts]

great video!! I see a lot of newbies struggle with ball pythons because of husbandry issues, they dont do a nice quarantine set up because its their only snake so why bother but they dont realize its more like a transition set up. literally a plastic bin is perfect before moving on to your cool af big set up. they need to feel secure and warm, they need to be left alone for at least a week, dont chase them with food, dont hover over them or they get prey feelings... baby hognoses have a more dramatic adjustment one of my girls needed to be covered in a small bin for months before she was both eating consistently unscented and not flipping out at me every time i opened the bin, handling every other week, one minute and adding a minute every time. my others were fine after 2 weeks, but if i was a worried new keeper I might have fussed over her and stressed her to death.

[@lorettajackson8759]

Thank you for this video, it came just in time as I'm about to purchase my first young pair of snakes, they will be shipped , and I had wondered what would be the best way to unpack them. I have been handling snakes and other reptiles since I could walk, and there is alot I seem to know intuitively about handling, but there are so many different things to know about keeping animals in captivity, and I will admit at times I've been caught up In the debate about "keeping reptiles naturally ", and have desired that large vivaurium. Most of the debates seem to say you must have one or the other, this video shows more balance. And I would add if you are going naturalistic, you must have both! When- if an animal gets sick or injured, removing it to a smaller, warm, secure (and for many, dark) location, that is easier to check the condition, poop, water consumption, ect, gives a higher chance of success (as Kevin says:) for recovery. Thanks again! Ps, Kevin it was really hard to pay attention to you when you were crawling with baby monitors, as they are way too cute!!!

[@Miranoria]

Thank you so much for your videos! I've been trying to tame my yellow Anaconda for a while now. She is a year and a half old and never really chilled down entirely. I've been looking for tongue flicks - or as you said - getting the brain going/started. And really given her some space and enriching experiences when I have her out. I've been handling her for some weeks now. Of course she has biten me, but it was my fault every time (floating hands from trying to catch her when she gets too eager about something). I cannot begin to explain just how grateful I am for your videos.. I'm not terrorfied of her anymore and she is such a good girl for me now that I finally is getting to know her ❤️ Both me and Anne-Mette is happy to have found your channel. And I'm sure I'm going to learn so much more from you in the future. I would love to see if you covered more about behavior because it interests me a lot 😍 Thank you for being you and having this channel 😍

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Very kind words. You are welcome! K

[@JoeSReptiles]

I love the relationship you have with your animals. You are among my top 5 reptile people I enjoy watching on KZbin as I sit with my reptiles. Yours, and channels like yours are better than NetFlix.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

I’m smiling! K

[@JillABaker970]

Kevin your an amazing person and you can tell how much you love your animals it shows in your knowledge and care for them I hated snakes until I started watching your channel and a few of the other KZbinrs I don’t have an reptile’s but I would like to get something one day because of what I’ve seen and learned from watching your channel

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Wonderfulllllll!!!! K

[@Midwest_Lizard_Mom]

I love that you addressed these issues. You truly understand, respect, and love reptiles. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and compassion. I saw a vid you did on handling with Clint's Reptiles (how I discovered NERD). I had a African Fat Tail that was new to me. Having watched your video (and other research), I let her come to me when ready. She must have had a stressful shipment, because she was hissing when I opened her container she came in. I gave her the space she needed (and still do), she eats great and comes to me on her time. Thanks for making these vids.

[@gryaznygreeb]

I love your Silent Hill t shirt and I love all the knowledge you share with us! I don't understand the controversy surrounding NERD. If Clint's Reptiles trusts you, I trust you. Even people like Lorah Torrini say that if you buy a snake that's been raised in a rack system, you need to slowly expose it to an open vivarium type set up. Put it in a dark tub, leave it alone for the first week or two, then try feeding. When it's comfortable, add the tub to the vivarium you want the snake to live in. If it feels secure and wants to explore, it will come out in it's own time. Some of her snakes she always leaves the tub there for them, and some never want to leave the tubs. Going from a quiet cozy rack to an open glass box in a living room full of kids is sure to stress out a snake.

[@dappyhappy773]

Something else people don't always give enough thought to is the life span of the creature. There are many reptiles I'd like to add to my mini zoo but cared for properly they would outlive me! What would happen to them once I'm dead? I'd have problems handling some of the bigger ones I like. Should have gotten into reptiles a lot sooner! Kevin, your awesome! Your knowledge is amazing, thank you so much for doing all you can to make the world a better place for reptiles x

[@kathyflorcruz552]

So many parrots are in rescue due to that awful oversight of their very long lifespans & ignorance of their socialization needs as well.

[@shawnmaginness9872]

You do incredible work, Kevin. I've been learning from you since the days of Pro Exotics. I remember when you first found the spider gene and it was the top of the heap of ball pythons. The real issue here is these inexperienced people with limited perspective trying to ban everything they don't like. That's such a dangerous way to think and I hope these people step back and really think critically about it. Leave the emotional knee-jerk reactions and really think about what you're saying. There's a downside to everything. Is it really worth it to erase an entire gene? Anyway, thank you for all the knowledge and inspiration over the years, Kevin. You're a legend, brother!

[@ttexoticfeeder]

Kevin,thanks for the information & I agree with u.Always a pleasure to hear what u have to say about animals in the hobby.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

My pleasure! K

[@jenniferg.3857]

4:27 lol, the Leap of Faith that water monitor did 🤣 22:07 keeping it real! 💯 Love you Kevin and love all your wisdom!

[@fkrgebs6773]

These unfortunate souls that push you over the edge to make these videos. There have to be a few people making many mistakes with their new animals and blaming you. Happy new year! I wish you a lot of people who can and will listen to you 😉

[@perfectweather]

I breed parrots. I tell people the dos and fonts and they don’t listen. For example, one lady thought the cage looked dirty and sprayed it down with Febreze before company came over and immediately killed her bird. Then she wanted her money back or a new bird

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Oh lord, febreeeze is death!!!!!!!!!!! Geeeez!!! K

[@bobbibuttons8730]

Happy New Year to the Guru of reptile care and behaviour, and Donny of course. You go guys, I love your videos xx

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Same to you! K

[@jeremiahperez9451]

Update I had to bring my albino python back to see what’s going on so far finding out she has RI or beginning stages first thing I noticed a lot of saliva was coming from her mouth and the guy said he’ll keep her couple days see what’s going on with her and I also want to say I appreciate your videos helping notice this early she was in training aka defensive snake an also hasn’t been out much an I’m so glad I ran into your guys page I’ve subbed and ever since three I’ve been loving it ..she first started off with mites an the video helped me get rid of them an so few days later I noticed her acting little strange the owner/shop told me to bring her in am they’ll keep me posted.will keep you guys posted but again I want to thank you guys alot for the tips an clues to keep eye out for beginner owner here as well ..KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK

[@shawnlarochelle4255]

Suuuuch a FANTASTIC video Kevin. Well done sir. I will forward this video to EVERY new potential reptile owner. Thank you!!! Happy New Years NERD

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Awesome! Thank you! K

[@dorothykopaskey9447]

Your information has always been spot on, as with any species patience is key! Love your channel!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Thank you! K

[@YochevedDesigns]

Watching Kevin covered with baby monitors is the cutest thing I've seen in ages! He truly is a reptile whisperer.

[@ianthornton72]

Great info in an easy to take in format. Let's hope it helps many new animals and keepers over that possibly difficult settling in period.

[@DRS17411]

You are one of the best Kevin, it's a fact! But there are some breeders that will ship you a sick animal without a care in the world. Backwater reptiles has sent me three different animals that I were sick three different times. Then they get mad when you call them even when you show them the evidence.

[@chelseamckenzie9423]

We recently purchased a hermanns tortoise, two year old. Video showed that he was keeping over 20 baby's in a very small viv and they were climbing over each other to get food. She's now in her tortoise table and finally eating quite abit but is absolutely loaded with worms. When he was delivering it too us he kept it a plastic sweet box with a large hole cut out in the centre and kept it in his car while he had dinner, it was -2 outside. How the poor thing survived with that idiot I will never know 🙄

[@NewEnglandReptile]

That does not sound very gooooood!!! K

[@l.l.3073]

great video Kevin!!! Im not a breeder/seller but have friends that sold at expo and people are ridiculous some blame the seller/breeder for their animal dieing on the way home from expo...Not their fault when the "owner" left their animal in the car in summer time or other stuff like that.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

I’ve seen people cook animals in their cars just like that. K

[@mikeprice820]

Love you stuff man, Probably the most in tune with these animals as anyone out their.

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Very kind words, appreciate it! K

[@davedronski7749]

I don't understand how anyone can question Kevin's knowledge when it comes to reptiles and what they need. Clearly he knows what is best for every single animal he works with. The care and attention to detail that he demonstrates in these little videos alone should prove that.

[@jakej.2893]

Because everyone should question his knowledge. Kevin isn't an omniscient god he's human and just like every other human he makes mistakes and will get things wrong. when you fail to question your sources every mistake they make becomes your mistake too. also enless you can find a way to measure things empirically it's impossible to know what is actually best practice for making reptiles happy. we can only estimate based on our observations.

[@lindaburcher3908]

Thank you for helping us, I could listen to you all day. You really care about the animals. You have helped me a lot

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Love this!!!!!❤ K

[@karenc.9505]

Fascinating and informative video Kevin and Donnie...so interesting. Thank you 🙏🏻🙏🏻 P.S is Snarfles ok ? we have not seen him in ages 😔

[@technoraptor7778]

Yeah..I went through that with my leopard boa...he was stressed from the shipping and was used to live feedings..so for a while it was all hissing strikes and regurgitating 4 times even after weeks between recovering each time...but slowly over time, giving him space and making his enclosure comfortable and eventually keeping meals down..I could finally move on to transitioning him to frozen thawed...now he's great! No more striking or hissing,eats frozen thawed no problem, feels comfortable. Still makes a tiny hiss once if I pick him up but that's it..then he's cool with it. :) he's such a good boy.

[@jenn1234]

Awesome video Kevin! So much important information and you present it so so well! I hope you have a Happy New Years and I hope this video makes a real difference in this new year ahead. Thank you for always educating in such a relatable manner. 😄💙🐬🐊🐍

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Very kind. K

[@NugShrub]

Thanks to you guys I have a tame Tokay using Kevin's advice. He still sucks with tokays but his advice works lol. Tokay takes more time than he probably has to get tamed out but I'm sure if he tried he could.

[@sandywalter9728]

Very informative... people need to listen to you... not so what they think... they just want to see a beautiful set up for their eyes, not what the animal needs!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Yesssss!!!! K

[@comedianmattrossey]

HAPPY NEW YEAR KEVIN, and ALLL AT N.E.R.D.!!!!! Kevin, Thank You sooooooooo much for doing this video. Too many people do exactly what you're talking about in this video. This is something that totally needed to be said a really long time ago. Keep Safe and Always Inspiring, Matt - Toronto, Canada

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Same to you! K

[@comedianmattrossey]

@@NewEnglandReptile Thanks Kevin.

[@voodooexotics230]

Thank you, Kevin!! Bout fricking time, I see someone make a true care video, and instructional video, and who better to do it?? Kevin!! I always make sure that people know what to do, how to do it, question then from time to time, to see if they've even bothered to do any research on the animal they claim to really want. Yeah, I'm an old lady, so I see all our animals as my children, and all their offspring are my grands, great grands, great, great grands,... You get the picture, even my rat and mice breeding, yes, I do get attached to some of them, we even made Siamese, solid black w/no white, and some really wild lightning faces, lol. It's hard for me to let go of any of my grands, unless I know they're going to a truly good home, someone who might not know my heart, but willing to research and do their homework, people who don't, don't get anything. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@laurenk.7325]

Kevin is packed full of knowledge and genuine love for these beautiful animals! Thank you so much for your valued time, Kevin. It's much appreciated! Happy Holidays to you and your family!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Wow, thank you! K

[@nickbryslan8904]

Bought a Brazilian Rainbow Boa and put her into a large, beautiful vivarium. She wouldn't eat for 2 weeks and I had difficulty finding her in the tank. I had good communication with the breeder and he sent photos of his setup which was a small tub in a rack with paper towel, a hide, and a water bowl. I downgraded her to a 20 gal with 2 hides (warm side / cool side), a water bowl and substrate and she was like a whole different snake. Active, great eater, and a gentle little baby. The large vivarium is still up and running and will eventually be where she ends up, but I definitely learned to baby-step it because of the amount of undue stress it was causing her.

[@caughtafaygo]

Cool vid guys! Completely agree and ive had success with all my animals using these methods. It works people, listen to the man. Kevin thank you! Donny thank you for your efforts and being there to capture this incredible human

[@NewEnglandReptile]

You are very welcome! K

[@TVelodrome]

I have had snakes for 2 months got a boa ofc "so it cud take the feeders when the pyton dosent eat" came to finde out they bearly eat the same & digestion isn't the same, gorgeous red tail cudent be without, got glas terarrium but I fit them to the breeders rack size plus darken sides always, if you buy from a consistent breeder you should not have any problems what so ever, consistently breeding an animal means you know what it needs plus more.

[@cpk2GIRL]

So similarly, when we bring a reptile home that's new to us from the shop, keep it simple stupid - until it's acclimated. Got it. Thanks for this video!!

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Exactly! K

[@Kilo_kyle]

Ive never thought about the pray thing. Like i understand that reptiles who aare pray of birds dont like the over the head movement. But my boa is so nice and social and the only time he hisses is when i get him out from under my couch.(hes 8 feet long. 7.5lbs. Hes not hard to find) he will hiss at me sometimes. Wonder if thats why or he just likes his hiding spot

[@kleague41]

I hope you Kevin and everyone else at NERD have a Happy New Year!!!

[@Ticklicous]

People absolutely have a severe tendency to blame the breeder first for any issue with their animals. It's a pretty major problem that I myself have run into from incompetent people taking in my animals and telling me how bad things are going despite keeping that well-started baby ball python I just sent home to them in a 40 gallons glass tank with a 24/7 lightbulb on, laying on pine shavings with no hides and a dinky water dish. While there are absolutely instances in which the blame is warranted as some breeders sadly are pretty garbage, it's far and few in between with the reptile world due to the fact we so heavily ostracize bad breeders as they don't in any way help our cause when it comes to spreading awareness and a passion or appreciation for reptiles.

[@jontaylor938]

Thanks Kevin and nerd crew!

[@jdmahle]

I love the "STOP! KEEP OFF" unless kevin or Dustin haha

[@hexxuss1]

These babies are so cute! I've had animals as young as 2 days old come to my rescue. They're all still with me years later. I'm not sure I want to see how people unpack these if it's not like this... I've only had one who just flew out of his bag (Chironius scurrulus) and just seemed totally unaffected by the transport. I've never seen another reptile who was that alert before lol. He had pooed in his bag, so I gave him a warm bath (and removed 3 layers of stuck shed), then put him into his quarantine enclosure. I miss that guy, but they're very hard to find.

[@tobywonkinoby8916]

Man I wish I had the room for one of your water monitors. Absolutely love them.

[@SanderCageF95]

That was THE Perfect Video for me. I get My First two drymarchon m.r. from california. Im living in Germany and Im so nervous Right now!! Very Helpful!!

[@carlosvazquez2978]

Great advice. Thank you for the wisdom you bring to the table.

[@aweldin7341]

Absolutely, too much blame is going to breeders. I got this female greybanded kingsnake at Hamm in September. Did really well until November, she was eating every week, she was shedding, and all my interactions with her were positive. Then in November she stopped eating, looked like all the focus was on me, just looked really stressed so I left her alone a little while and gave more "hides" and looser substrate so she can burrow, then she was back to eating again after about 3 weeks. Since then she hasn't been eating to this day. Tried to contacting the breeder but no response so I'm trying to figure out what is going on. But I might try removing her from the encloser she's in and find a smaller solution than what she already is in, and but her in the gecko room

[@Tjsreptileworld]

Reptiles are full of secret nasties from diseases all the way up to parasites but that is a great topic on unpacking or how to ship your reptiles

[@freaky-frank]

In Northeast Pennsylvania auto lube shipping for reptiles is terrible. People seem to get it wrong all the time because it’s pretty much cold here except summer But we have cold days in the summer too. It’s ridiculous.

[@kimitsukouseki9872]

Wow, yesterday I poster a 2 parter video very similar to what you're saying in this one. I dont edit my videos so it's not good quality though XD Many people just dont see the bigger picture of what's good for the animal. Often times it's because they've been told over and over what "should" be the "best" life for an animal. Every animal has it's nuance, just like people. What's best for one or for most will not nescessarilly be right for some individuals. People need to be more attentive and open minded.

[@raeven1937]

I dont have reptiles but i love your channel for all the information. Its sad that you have to make a video like this....to me it sounds like common sense. Pupps, kittens, birds...they all need time to get settled in, so why wouldnt reptiles? Only 1 little thingy i would like to ask; if someone bought 1 ball python as a pet, i wouldnt recommend them buying a rack system only for the settle-in time. Could they just make that big new shiny terrarium smaller for this period? I dont know, make a small and safe enclosure in that big one with of course the husbandry fitting the animal? I did that with my birds.

[@jakej.2893]

Has anyone considered that the reason reptile find a new large and enriched cage overwhelming is because Kevin and other breeders fail to provide proper envirements and enrichment for their animals? Their basic needs are being met but it's hardly surprising something breeders never bother to offer their reptiles is overwhelming when the reptiles 1st experience it.

[@Stardustgirl123]

I really appreciate this. I'm just getting into the hobby and I have just purchased a pair of babies to raise up. I nearly got discouraged yesterday because people were practically screaming at me over my choice, but it helps to see this and it helps me feel better about my decision.

[@AnneAndersonFoxiepaws]

Kevin, you're so good and really care for these lovely animals, I would love a water monitor but I don't think I have the space or the experience for such a big animal, I am sure lots of people see them like the babies you have there, but they really should be looking at the colony of monitors in Bangkok, they would have a better idea of what a fully grown one is like! I still think theyre awesome, at any size, I just know my own spatial and financial limitations. As for learning, I have had horses my whole life, my family before me had them and I was born into it. I am 65 and wouldn't claim to know everything. Every animal is an individual but, as you said, you have to make a new animal comfortable and give it a feeling of security while attending to its basic needs, temperature and humidity aren't the first equine concerns though you would certainly make sure it was warm enough, had water, dry bedding and outside paddock if its used to being out or inside space if that's what it requires. When its settled from the journey and feels secure in its accommodation you would give hay and / or whatever feed it is used to at the appropriate time. I think all animals, including humans need security first and foremost and water and food generally comes naturally when they have acclimatised to their new situation. Making it simple is a no brainer for new animals as you want to be able to monitor its behaviour and if it has parasites, or anything thats affecting excretion and you can only do this effectively in a simple but reassuring environment. You wil be making life easier for both the animal and yourself if you follow Kevin's guidelines in this!

[@Rotsuoy]

Before I watch this video, I want to say, I'm guilty of blaming breeders for my animals failing to thrive, however, these were with fish, and as I've continued to purchase fish from reputable breeders over chain fish stores, while I'm more capable NOW of helping nearly any quality of fish thrive, I do still feel that animals have a very high failure to thrive rate when coming from chain stores and breeder mills, but that it's more true with fish than with reptiles. I'm definitely far more capable of bringing fish back from the edge now that I've seen everything from severe growth stunting to massive parasitic infections. Now to watch the video and see what Kevin says about it. Edit: Now that I've watched the video, I realize this is about GOOD quality animals from reputable breeders, not poor quality chain animals. I really appreciate him covering all the details of husbandry from the time you get the animal to the time you put it in its enclosure. This is all fantastic information that needs to be discussed so much more. Far too many people mess up within the first few hours of keeping that animal and set that animal up for failure.

[@brianpartlow5530]

I am not a fan of shipping animals. If I ever get up the money for one of Kevin's reptiles, I'll take a road trip. I would want to see where it lives so I can set his new home up similar. I would make his transition as low stress as possible. Always great videos! Kevin is quite the reptile whisperer.

[@victoriacleaveland3465]

Thank you for sharing this video, excellent informational husbandry care.

[@technoraptor7778]

I'm also dealing with destressifying my female boa.. poor girl..she has a swollen puss filled nose that hasn't gotten better(she rubbed too hard)..and I took her to the vet to see if I can reduce or remove the nastiness in her nose...I find out they danced around with her in the back(I guess they don't get snakes often) and sucked some puss out with a needle...and proscribed some antibiotics I am to inject in her every other day for a month...well I did that..she hated every moment of it and with no improvements of her nose...the vet then said oh just give her more injections for a few more weeks and get back with them....well my poor girl the whole time refused to eat since then and is now scared to be put in a pillow case and to be handled..im worried for her so I haven't given her the extra injections so she can destressify and start eating again. It has been 3 months.

[@aurieamoore5823]

As i am coming to understand more and more as time goes by is it's one thing to be ignorant about something and make a mistake and then RECOGNIZE you've been ignorant and made a mistake, then take the necessary steps to amend said ignorance. And it's entirely another to make mistakes out if ignorance and refuse to amend said ignorance. Or to intentionally attempt to ignore/avoid confronting said ignorance to begin with. If you can't be grown enough to recognize your own bs and learn you aren't grown enough for a pet.

[@laurad7228]

Thanks for this video. I'm considering getting a reptile and videos like this help a lot with making sure I'm going to do things right.