We purchased Darthgator in 2009 from a breeder in Florida shortly after we received approval and our permit from the State of Utah to use crocodilians in our educational programs. Darthgator was less than a year old at the time and was the cutest little gator you ever did see. He has grown up in our facility and has been an amazing animal ambassador to teach the young and old about the wonderful world of crocodilians. He has been undergoing a training program here in-house for the past several years that has taught him to “come”, “stay”, “open”, and to go toward specific color blocks in his pond. He is a smart creature and we are so glad to have him represent our crocodilian group of reptiles.
Reticulated Pythons are the longest species of snake in the world. We purchased Charlotte from a local breeder in late 2009. She made appearances at a variety of events for years across the state of Utah and beyond. Charlotte developed a chronic respiratory infection a few years ago and has since been retired to a life of leisure. She is currently the longest snake on display in Utah at this time.
Sulcata Tortoises are the third-largest land tortoise in the world. We purchased Twinkle Toes off Kingsnake.com in 2008. When he was shipped here his shipping got delayed for a day in the FedEx shipping center because an employee there didn’t realize that it was ok to ship reptiles. Fortunately, he made it here safe and sound. Twinkle Toes spent over a decade going to birthday parties, schools, libraries, and more educated with the Scales and Tails team. He got a little too heavy though for one person to carry so now he only comes out to educate at large events and fairs. Twinkle Toes had three wives at our facility.
Asian Water Monitors are the second largest species of lizards next to the Komodo Dragon. In fact, they are cousins to the Komodo Dragon! We obtained TNT at the Wasatch Reptile Expo in 2008 as a baby. TNT has amazing and inspired children and adults everywhere to appreciate lizards. TNT is now 13 years old and retired. You can come to visit her and our other reptilian ambassadors at Scales and Tails Utah. Darthgator was less than a year old at the time and was the cutest little gator you ever did see. He has grown up in our facility and has been an amazing animal ambassador to teach the young and old about the wonderful world of crocodilians. He has been undergoing a training program here in-house for the past several years that has taught him to “come”, “stay”, “open”, and to go toward specific color blocks in his pond. He is a smart creature and we are so glad to have him represent our crocodilian group of reptiles.