I'm Darren, the owner of Reptile Rainforest. Thanks for visiting! 

Starting a reptile business was a dream of mine since I was a little kid, even though I didn't know how to put it into words yet. I just knew I was going to dedicate my life to working with animals, particularly creatures who are misunderstood and often unfairly maligned. I spent much of my childhood catching frogs, tadpoles, snakes, and turtles. If it had to do with that simultaneous rush and serenity I felt (and still feel) from spending time in nature, that's where you'd find me. It's been a life-long adventure, but here are a few key points to help you get to know me better! 

*I worked at two zoos in Florida, caring for many types of exotic animals  including big cats, primates and venomous snakes. 

*I studied Zoological Animal Sciences, graduating from Central Florida Community College. 

* I have 30 + years experience keeping and breeding reptiles. How did I get this old?! 

*I am a writer with over 100 published articles, primarily in the field of herpetoculture. 

If you read REPTILES Magazine, Canadian Reptile Hobbyist, or Pet Product News International, you may already be familiar with my work. 

*Most recently I've started working at my local public library, fulfilling another long-time career dream. 

*I love all animals, and the head of my household is a Sphynx cat named Sedona. 

*I am also a professional songwriter, guitar teacher, and musician, often contributing  to multiple bands. Music connects the world with a common language!