How to Be Exotic Reptile Handler - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Exotic reptile handling requires extensive knowledge and training. Those who choose to handle these animals must understand the risks posed by these species, as well as their specific care requirements. Proper training and knowledge helps to ensure the safety of both the handler and the reptile.

If a handler is not properly trained, they can unknowingly put themselves and their reptile in danger. This can lead to bites, illnesses, or even death. if reptile care is not properly managed, the animal can suffer from dehydration, malnourishment, and even diseases.

As a result, handlers must be very knowledgeable in order to provide the best care for their exotic reptiles.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Research the types of exotic reptiles available for handling. Exotic reptiles come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Understand the behavior, care, and handling of each type of reptile before attempting to work with them.
3. Get hands-on experience. Gaining experience with handling reptiles can be done through volunteer work at a local zoo, aquarium, animal shelter, or pet store.
4. Take courses or get certified. Becoming certified in reptile handling can give you an edge when applying for jobs. You can take courses at a community college, university, or online.
5. Find a job. Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you can start looking for a job as an exotic reptile handler. Animal rescue centers, zoos, and pet stores are some of the places you may find job openings.
6. Adhere to safety protocols. When working with exotic reptiles, safety is of the utmost importance. Be sure to follow all safety protocols and guidelines provided by your employer.

Exotic reptile handling requires a great deal of skill and capability in order to be successful. One must have extensive experience and knowledge about the reptiles' natural behavior and habitat, as well as the ability to handle them safely. It is also important to be familiar with the laws and regulations governing the keeping of exotic animals.

Proper training and certification is essential in order to be a competent handler. It is also vital to understand the diet and nutritional needs of the reptiles in order to provide them with adequate nutrition. In addition, regular veterinary care is necessary to ensure the reptiles are in good health.

With the right knowledge and expertise, an exotic reptile handler can provide the best possible care for these fascinating creatures.

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Job Description

1. Set up and maintain enclosures for exotic reptiles according to approved safety standards.
2. Monitor reptile behavior and health, and alert supervisors of any potential problems.
3. Feed and water reptiles as prescribed by professional standards.
4. Clean and disinfect enclosures on a regular basis.
5. Handle exotic reptiles safely and properly, including moving them between different enclosures.
6. Assist with educational programs by providing information about exotic reptiles and their care.
7. Provide access to reptile habitats for approved research projects.
8. Capture, transport, and release reptiles when necessary.
9. Provide basic husbandry and medical care, including administering medications as prescribed by a veterinarian.
10. Monitor breeding activities and assist with reproduction processes.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of the anatomy and biology of various reptiles
2. Experience in handling and holding reptiles
3. Ability to recognize signs of reptile health and illness
4. Understanding of safe and humane care and housing of reptiles
5. Knowledge of proper handling and safety protocol
6. Ability to respond to emergency situations involving reptiles
7. Ability to work with a variety of reptile species
8. Ability to observe and monitor reptile behaviors
9. Knowledge of feeding, nutrition, and husbandry requirements for reptiles
10. Excellent communication and customer service skills

Exotic reptile handling requires a set of specialized skills that must be developed in order to ensure the safety of both the handler and the reptile. Proper knowledge of the biology and behavior of a reptile is essential, as this will allow for an understanding of how to effectively and safely handle them. Furthermore, the handler must have an understanding of the physical characteristics of the reptile, such as size, weight, strength, and agility.

they must be aware of the reptile's diet and habitat requirements in order to provide a proper environment and nutrition. The ability to properly assess the health and well-being of the reptile is also important, as any health concerns must be addressed quickly and efficiently. Finally, the handler must possess a calm demeanor, as reptiles can become easily stressed in unfamiliar situations.

By possessing these skills, an exotic reptile handler can safely and effectively handle reptiles while providing them with the best possible care.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• How did you become interested in exotic reptile handling?
• What experience do you have with handling and caring for reptiles?
• What is your experience in dealing with customers who have questions or concerns about reptiles?
• Are you familiar with all the safety protocols necessary when handling exotic reptiles?
• How would you handle a situation in which an exotic reptile poses a risk to a customer?
• What is your experience in applying reptile nutrition and feeding protocols?
• How do you handle difficult behaviors in reptiles, such as aggression or fear?
• What methods do you use to ensure the health and safety of reptiles under your care?
• How would you approach the challenge of providing proper environmental conditions for exotic reptiles?
• How do you stay up to date on the latest advances in reptile care and handling techniques?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Snake Hook . A long metal rod with a curved end used to pick up and manipulate snakes. (eg: A snake handler uses a snake hook to safely handle and move a python. )
2. Protective Gloves . Heavy-duty gloves used to protect hands from bites or scratches. (eg: The exotic reptile handler wears protective gloves when handling venomous snakes. )
3. Snake Tongs . Special tongs used to grab and hold snakes. (eg: The reptile handler uses snake tongs to pick up and move a large boa constrictor. )
4. Snake Tongue Forceps . A special pair of tweezers used to hold a snake's tongue. (eg: The reptile handler uses snake tongue forceps to measure the length of a snake's tongue. )
5. Snake Hook Scales . A device used to weigh snakes. (eg: The reptile handler attaches the snake hook scales to the snake hook to measure the weight of the boa constrictor. )
6. Snake Bag . A specialized bag designed to safely transport snakes. (eg: The reptile handler places the boa constrictor in the snake bag for transport. )

Professional Organizations to Know

1. American Association of Herpetoculturists
2. International Herpetological Symposium
3. Reptile & Amphibian Conservation Alliance
4. World Chelonian Trust
5. HerpMapper
6. Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians
7. National Reptile Breeders’ Expo
8. Reptile and Amphibian Hobbyist Magazine
9. International Herpetological Society
10. Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Common Important Terms

1. Herpetology. The study of reptiles and amphibians, including their behavior, anatomy, and physiology.
2. Herpetoculture. The keeping and breeding of reptiles and amphibians in captivity.
3. Vivarium. An enclosed space, typically made of glass, used to house reptiles and amphibians in captivity.
4. Husbandry. The practice of caring for captive animals, including feeding, cleaning, and providing enrichment activities.
5. Enclosure. A habitat designed to house a single reptile or amphibian species.
6. Substrate. A material such as sand, gravel, or dirt used to line the bottom of a vivarium.
7. UVB Lighting. A type of artificial lighting used to help reptiles and amphibians synthesize vitamin D3 in captivity.
8. Heat Lamp. An artificial heat source typically used to provide a basking area for reptiles and amphibians.
9. Thermoregulation. The ability of an animal to maintain its body temperature within a specific range.
10. Shedding. The natural process by which some reptiles and amphibians periodically shed their skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most common exotic reptiles handled by exotic reptile handlers?

Popular exotic reptiles handled by exotic reptile handlers include snakes, turtles, lizards, tortoises, and iguanas.

What qualifications or certifications do exotic reptile handlers need?

Exotic reptile handlers must typically have specialized knowledge of exotic reptiles, such as species-specific feeding and handling, as well as safety protocols. In some cases, exotic reptile handlers may need to be certified or licensed in order to legally work with exotic reptiles.

What other duties might an exotic reptile handler be responsible for?

Exotic reptile handlers may be responsible for additional duties such as cleaning habitats, monitoring health of the animals, providing enrichment activities, and educating the public about reptiles.

How much does an exotic reptile handler usually earn?

The average salary for an exotic reptile handler is approximately $30,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on experience and location.

What are some of the safety precautions that an exotic reptile handler must take?

Exotic reptile handlers must always prioritize safety when handling reptiles and other animals. This includes wearing protective clothing and gloves, keeping a safe distance from animals, and never handling an animal without the proper training.

What are jobs related with Exotic Reptile Handler?

Web Resources

• Exotics: Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish | Veterinary Hospital hospital.cvm.ncsu.edu
• Herp & Reptile Veterinarian | Reptile Vets | UW … uwveterinarycare.wisc.edu
• Exotic Animal Handler: North Texas | Natural Resources Job Board wfscjobs.tamu.edu