I am proud to announce that two new animals will be joining the ambassador team! Meet Kiwi (Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula) and Scincus (Egyptian Sandfish)! They are both now available for events, parties, and any other appropriate outings. Find them and more Under About > My Animals.

Want to learn what to do if there's an emergency on the trail? Come join me at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park where I will be assisting in a wilderness first aid class with Safety Training Pros. I was invited back after having taken the class myself and 100% recommend learning from them. Come join us on August 9th & 10th from 8:30-5:00 at the observatory!

Note: this is a paid class geared towards teens and adults. I myself will not be teaching this class, just assisting.

I am excited to announce that I have become a wildlife volunteer with Sonoma County Regional Parks!

If you find me out and about, ask me what's happening in the park that day - I may be monitoring endangered species, keeping the park clean, or just enjoying some time outdoors.

You are more than welcome to join me as I walk (as long as I am on trail!) as I explore and observe what makes Sonoma County Regional Parks so special.

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of beloved ambassador animal Squiz (Leopard Gecko). Squiz engaged with and helped educate tens of thousands of people across his 10+ years of service. He was one of my first reptiles and played a major role in me wanting to go into environmental education. I am at a loss for words for how much he meant to me and those who got to know him. He was truly a spectacular animal and representative of his species.

Hold your animals closer tonight. Give them an extra treat. The sad truth is that nothing lasts forever and it is important to make memories while you still have time. Rest easy buddy, you've earned it.

Summer is here, and with that, tons of reptiles are out in the warmer weather. While most snakes and lizards stick to warm rocks or under logs, you can find some in some VERY interesting places. While scouting a trail for future programming, I came across this Coast Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans terrestris) crawling along the cliff face on the beach. A super cool find that I certainly did not expect!

This species primarily feeds on fish and thus has evolved modified "sand paper-y" scales to help grip their slippery food. It is a mildly rear-fang venomous species that holds no medical significance to humans, but they will likely musk in self defense.  Stinky, but ultimately harmless.

Want to join in on the fun? Contact me! I am always looking to take people out looking for and admiring the awesome reptiles that call Sonoma County home.

Want a taste of what I have to offer? Come visit me at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. I am working on getting a reoccurring program going where we explore the park, learning about something new each time we meet. Details and calendar to come.