Lee Yates

(Merseyside)

I've been keeping reptiles since I was nine years old, which makes it almost eleven years now.  It all began in the summer of 1991 when I bought a small Skink (species unknown, but the closest I have seen to it since is the Eumeces fasciatus, or Five Lined Skink).

After becoming well and truly enchanted by his curious, albeit nervy, temperament, I quickly bought a Corn Snake, followed by a plethora of Kingsnakes, Rat Snakes, and later Boids, as my interest, knowledge (and cash flow!) increased.

I truly loved my animals and took every opportunity to meet new fanciers and expand my knowledge (thank god for inter-library lending schemes!) - but it wasn't until a couple of years ago that I got that Holy Grail of communication and knowledge, the Internet!

I quickly joined several online email groups and forums concerning reptiles, and it wasn't until I met my best mate Pete that I was introduced to a group called “Petsnakes”.  The prospect of being able to gain access to a list of people right here in the UK who not only shared my passion for all things scaly, but who also could rival my ability to talk a glass eye to sleep on the subject... well, what can I say?! :o)

I was speedily introduced to a man named Jim Lind, who was very helpful in showing me the ropes on the 'net, and teaching me how to use the ICQ chat program.  After receiving a list of members, their age, location and main interests I sat there scanning my way through.  I was just in awe of the fact I could finally reach out and both share information and learn about my favourite topic (though my passion for bull terrier breeds and working hounds is a close rival)!

I met a lot of people through Petsnakes - most of whom are now amongst my closest friends (you know who you are!).  The idea of bringing people together with a common interest, and allowing newcomers to be so swiftly and warmly welcomed to the hobby (and given the appropriate information and husbandry techniques required) was so encouraging to me that I'd soon quadrupled my collection, and gone further than I would previously have done in my wildest dreams! 

Now, to the present day, I am keeping Geckos, snakes, a Horned frog, spiders, breeding my own prey items and constantly researching and learning new things. I've hatched my own clutches out (something I don't think I could ever have done without the assistance of the people in Petsnakes) and am now aiming for a career in herpetology proper, with an Honours Degree in Field Biology.

So once again, thanks to Jim and all the members of Petsnakes - if it weren't for all of you, I'd still be home alone with a couple of Rat snakes and a TFH book on Reptiles of the World.

Cheers!

Lee