A definite highlight of my time at university has been various animal handling events, and trips organised by societies I was part of. Getting the opportunity to see, handle and photograph such a variety of animals is a rare treat, with most public places not offering this because of health and safety. It also provides a chance to meet other people with similar interests to you, and discuss their experiences with the exotic pet industry. (Photos by Natasha Lee)
Bangor University’s Herpetological Society holds handling events every year, where students can bring in their pets and showcase them to others. You’ll see a lot of snakes, lizards and geckos, but also some less common companions. Giant snails, frogs, tarantulas, and invertebrates of all kinds can be seen at these events! It’s a great opportunity to talk to people knowledgeable about the pet breeding industry, or who even breed and sell reptiles themselves.
I generally assumed that people doing a zoological degree would be against any sort of commercial animal breeding, especially when it comes to more exotic animals. However, everyone I spoke to here put much more emphasis on safe and responsible reptile breeding. Lots of research is done to make sure purchases are only made from reputable breeders, with large online herpetology communities helping to educate and inform on the best ways to care for these animals.
While researching different websites of reptile sellers in the UK, I came across one ran by the original founder of Bangor University HerpSoc! The staff page showcases the various qualifications held by different staff members, which made me realise that a business career like this is a viable option after university. Being a part of or running my own business was something I hadn’t considered before, but is an idea that appeals to me. Such a hands on job would be engaging and full of variety, while also giving a chance to educate the wider public about these less common pets.
A timeline of snake selfies: Herpetological Society handling events from 2017, 2018, and 2019
A job like this often requires personal experience with either owning or caring for reptiles and other exotic pets. Chinese culture considers snakes to be bad luck, so while I personally love them, I haven’t had the opportunity to own one yet since I live with my parents. Regardless of whether this is a career path I decide to choose or not, I would love to own a snake one day!
I have experience owning stick insects and orchid mantids, so maybe I could create or work for one of the invertebrate selling companies I saw when I attended the British Tarantula Show in 2018. Travelling and attending shows like this is a lot of fun, so I feel like I would really enjoy a job that involves these aspects.
Animal handling and educating the public about invertebrates (or any animal, for that matter) would also be a great perk! Definitely a job I would love to have in the future, after owning some more animals of my own!
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