The Retic Lounge

Episode 120: Acquiring Adult Reticulated Pythons – With Alex Koppa  

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Alex Koppa to dive into his unique journey in the reptile hobby. From his early experiences with wildlife to his growing passion for reptiles, Alex shares the story of what led him to work with large adult reticulated pythons.  

We explore the challenges and rewards of acquiring mature retics, including the adjustments required in husbandry, handling, and building trust with these powerful and intelligent animals. Alex also discusses the lessons he’s learned along the way and his insights on what it takes to responsibly keep these majestic snakes.  

This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone considering adding adult reticulated pythons to their collection or just wanting to understand more about these impressive creatures.  

Thanks to our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off)  
- AEstoney.com for husbandry tools  
- VivTech Products (Use code RETICLOUNGE23)  
- Heartland Reptiles  
- HeliGuy Serpents (Use code TRL10)  

Support USARK and USARK Florida:  
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)  
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)  

Join The Lounge on Patreon for early episodes, exclusive content, Discord access, and more: [Patreon](http://www.patreon.com/thereticlounge).  

Follow us on Instagram:  
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)  
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)  
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)  

Tune in to hear Alex’s fascinating journey and his passion for these incredible animals!

Episode 119: Sponsorship Spotlight – Desiree Monnot of Cold Blooded Cafe

In this episode, we talk with Desiree Monnot, the powerhouse behind Cold Blooded Cafe, to explore what it takes to be a leader in the reptile feeder industry. Known for providing some of the cleanest and best-quality feeders, Cold Blooded Cafe offers mice, rats, rabbits, quail, chicks, crawfish, quail eggs, and more—making it a go-to for keepers seeking a varied diet for their reptiles.

Beyond feeders, Desiree dives into her extensive reptile collection, featuring a range of venomous and non-venomous snakes, tortoises, monitor lizards, and more. She also shares her commitment to conservation through her work with crocodilians in partnership with Dragonwood Conservancy, highlighting her passion for preserving these remarkable animals.

Follow Desiree on Instagram at [@mrsmonitor](https://www.instagram.com/mrsmonitor) for more insights into her work with Cold Blooded Cafe and her own reptile journey.

Thanks to our Sponsors: 
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off)  
- AEstoney.com for husbandry tools  
- VivTech Products (Use code **RETICLOUNGE23**)  
- Heartland Reptiles  
- HeliGuy Serpents (Use code **TRL10**)  

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Connect with us for more exclusive content:
- Join The Lounge on Patreon for early episodes, Discord access, member meetings, and more at [Patreon](http://www.patreon.com/thereticlounge).

Follow us on Instagram:
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)  
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)  
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)  

This episode offers a fascinating look at what it takes to run a top-tier feeder business and showcases Desiree’s dedication to reptile care and conservation!

Episode 118: TRL Book Club – The Complete Reticulated Python* Chapter 7, The Importation Process

This week, Lucas and Nathan return to the TRL Book Club series, diving into Chapter 7 of *The Complete Reticulated Python* by Glen McClellan. In this episode, they explore the fascinating and complex history of legally importing Reticulated Pythons into the United States, leading up to the eventual Lacey Act ban on importation. 

Chapter 7 details what it took for passionate keepers and importers to bring these incredible animals into the country, navigating strict regulations and extensive logistical challenges. The story takes on a personal note as it highlights a special group of Kalaotoa locality retics known as the Reach Dreams Male and Female—a pair carefully held back by Dan Mulleary of DM Exotics, later sold to the late Forrest Fanning of Zoo Dreams, and finally given to Garrett Hartle of Reach Out Reptiles. This pair has since contributed their rare genetic lineage to Garrett’s breeding projects, carrying on a unique legacy of the last legally imported Kalaotoa Retics in the U.S.

For those fascinated by the rich history and impact of these remarkable retics, don’t miss this in-depth discussion!

Check out DM Exotics on YouTube: [DM Exotics](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2m8F6UFnmMMD3G9M9RZHKQ)

Listen to The Chondro Lounge's interview with Dan Mulleary: [The Chondro Lounge - Dan Mulleary Episode](https://thechondrolounge.com/episode-dan-mulleary)

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- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more captivating insights into the world of Reticulated Pythons, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 117: Colorado Legislation Awareness with Aaron Lee Ingalls of DNA Slithers and Critters

In this episode of *The Retic Lounge*, Lucas and Nathan sit down with Aaron Lee Ingalls of DNA Slithers and Critters to discuss a critical topic impacting the reptile community: upcoming legislation in Colorado that could significantly change the standards for reptile keeping and breeding in the state. Aaron has been working tirelessly to educate local legislators on the unique requirements of reptile care, industry practices, and the implications that certain proposed laws could have on breeders and collectors alike.

Tune in as Aaron breaks down the details of the proposed bill, which targets collections with 50 or more reptiles and mandates cage sizes that would be nearly impossible for most hobbyists and breeders to accommodate. He shares his approach to advocacy, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and constructive dialogue with policymakers to preserve the rights of reptile keepers.

In addition to legislative efforts, Aaron gives us an inside look at what it takes to operate a successful rodent breeding program, offering valuable insights for anyone considering breeding their own feeders.

Follow Aaron on Instagram:
- [dnaslithersandcritters](https://www.instagram.com/dnaslithersandcritters)

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!

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Find us on Instagram:
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- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay informed and connected with your reptile community, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 116: Species Spotlight – Dwarf Burmese Pythons (Progschai) with Michael Pennell of Python in a Pear Tree

In this exciting episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan are joined by Michael Pennell of Python in a Pear Tree to spotlight the unique and fascinating world of Dwarf Burmese Pythons, also known as Progschai. Michael, a passionate breeder and keeper, shares his extensive knowledge and experiences working with these stunning, smaller variants of the iconic Burmese Python species. 

Tune in as we explore the natural history, husbandry, and breeding techniques of Dwarf Burmese Pythons, discussing everything from their size, temperament, and care needs. Michael also dives into how Dwarf Burmese Pythons compare to their larger counterparts and what makes them a captivating choice for reptile enthusiasts seeking a manageable yet rewarding species to work with.

Whether you're curious about keeping Dwarf Burmese Pythons or just fascinated by the diversity within the reptile hobby, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice from one of the top breeders in the field.

Follow Michael on Instagram:
- [pythonpeartree](https://www.instagram.com/pythonpeartree)

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!

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Find us on Instagram:
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 115: The Complete Reticulated Python Book Club – Chapter 5: Morphology

In this episode of *The Retic Lounge*, Lucas and Nathan continue their deep dive into Glen McClellan’s *The Complete Reticulated Python* with Chapter 5: Morphology. This chapter explores the intricate details of reticulated python morphology, from their physical traits to the variations observed across different subspecies and localities. Lucas and Nathan delve into how these differences manifest in scale counts, body structure, and phenotypic expressions, providing valuable insight into the natural diversity and complexity of the species.

The discussion also touches on how understanding morphology plays a pivotal role in breeding projects, as well as in the overall husbandry practices that retic keepers should be mindful of. Whether you’re a breeder or a passionate retic enthusiast, this chapter serves as a crucial foundation for understanding the broader implications of morphology on the behavior, care, and selection of these magnificent reptiles.

Tune in as Lucas and Nathan unpack the vast range of phenotypic traits that make reticulated pythons such a fascinating species to study, keep, and breed. With a combination of science and practical experience, this episode will give you a greater appreciation for the biological diversity of the world’s largest snake.

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- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)

- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:

- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)

- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:

- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!

- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).

- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).

- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).

- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).

- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!

From Novice to Python Pro: James Garrett's Wild Journey Under LAB Exotics! | THE RETIC LOUNGE #113

In this episode of *The Retic Lounge*, Lucas and Nathan sit down with James Garrett, Lucas's helper at LAB Exotics, to discuss how mentorship has shaped his love and understanding of reticulated pythons. James reflects on his journey from having little experience with these incredible animals to becoming fully immersed in their care, thanks to Lucas's guidance. 

Throughout the episode, James highlights the critical lessons he's learned working with a wide variety of retic localities, focusing on the unique challenges of husbandry, handling, and understanding retic behavior. From mastering enclosure design to understanding the intricacies of feeding and breeding, James’s story is one of passion, persistence, and dedication. The conversation also touches on how mentorship in the reptile industry can be a transformative experience, helping to foster both a deeper appreciation and practical knowledge of these majestic snakes.

If you're interested in mentorship, retic husbandry, or are simply curious about how hands-on learning can impact a person’s connection with reptiles, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration.

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Join us on Patreon](http://www.patreon.com/thereticlounge)

Find us on Instagram:
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- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)
- [JamesGarrett_1](https://www.instagram.com/JamesGarrett_1)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 112: Book Club - *The Complete Reticulated Python* Chapters 3 & 4

In Episode 112 of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan continue their deep dive into *The Complete Reticulated Python* by Glen McClellan with the next installment of our book club series. This time, we’re breaking down chapters 3 and 4, which explore fascinating topics related to the origins and evolution of reticulated pythons.

- Chapter 3: Origins of M. R. Jampeanus and M. R. Saputrai– We dive into the evolutionary history of two unique reticulated python subspecies and their distinct characteristics.
- Chapter 4: Insular Dwarfism – Discover the concept of insular dwarfism, the phenomenon where reptiles evolve to be smaller in isolated island environments, and its role in shaping reticulated python localities.

Join us as we uncover the scientific research and historical context that makes this book the most comprehensive guide to reticulated pythons ever written. For those wanting to follow along, you can [purchase *The Complete Reticulated Python* on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com) and dive deeper into these fascinating chapters with us.

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Find us on Instagram:
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 111: Book Club - The Complete Reticulated Python Chapters 1 & 2

In this exciting new episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan kick off a brand-new book club series, diving into the long-anticipated release of *The Complete Reticulated Python* by our good friend Glen McClellan. This comprehensive guide to the natural history, captive care, and breeding of the world’s largest snake is the most extensive work ever published on these fascinating animals, and we’re here to break it down chapter by chapter.

In Episode 111, we explore the first two chapters:
- Chapter 1: Taxonomy, Toponymy, Phylogeny, and the Species’ Range – A deep dive into the evolutionary relationships and geographical range of reticulated pythons.
- Chapter 2: The Selayar Islands, Their People, Their Climate, and Their Snakes – An exploration of the unique island environment where some of the most iconic locality reticulated pythons come from.

Join us as we discuss Glen’s detailed research and uncover fascinating insights about the species we all know and love. Whether you’re new to retics or a seasoned keeper, this episode offers a wealth of information as we begin our journey through *The Complete Reticulated Python*.

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!

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Find us on Instagram:
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!

Episode 110: Reverse Interview with Joan Fernandez of Blackfish Herpetoculture

In Episode 110 of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan welcome Joan Fernandez of Blackfish Herpetoculture for a unique reverse interview, diving deep into the world of herpetoculture from multiple perspectives. With a rich background in keeping both Reticulated Pythons and Morelia species, Joan guides us through a fascinating discussion on how different areas of the reptile hobby can influence one another.

We start by exploring the guiding principles that keeping retics has taught Joan—everything from husbandry and breeding tips to community insights gained through Morelia and Chondro keeping. We also delve into the contrasts and similarities between the Retic and Morelia communities, discussing how each shapes its members’ practices.

Joan shares the impact that podcast networks and the broader reptile community have had on his husbandry methods, from feeding practices to housing and enrichment. We discuss how tips and techniques from various herp communities can influence the way keepers care for their animals and breed for traits like polygenics.

The conversation then shifts to market dynamics, comparing the retic and Morelia markets and how different communities approach breeding projects. Joan highlights some of the breeding strategies he’s adopted from other communities, offering valuable insights into how locality keeping and general husbandry have been shaped by cross-community learning.

We wrap up the episode with thought-provoking questions, exploring what niche herp communities can learn from more mainstream sectors like ball pythons and corn snakes.

Whether you keep retics, Morelia, or are involved in other areas of herpetoculture, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on how engaging with different reptile communities can elevate your husbandry and breeding practices.

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!

Join The Lounge TODAY!
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Find us on Instagram:
- [TheReticLounge](https://www.instagram.com/TheReticLounge)
- [Lab_Exotics_](https://www.instagram.com/Lab_Exotics_)
- [Katz_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Katz_Reptiles)
- [blackfishherpetoculture](https://www.instagram.com/blackfishherpetoculture)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships)
- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Sponsors:
- [AEstoney.com](https://AEstoney.com): For the best husbandry tools around!
- AE Foundry: Check out their innovative products at [AE Foundry](https://AEFoundry.com).
- VivTech Products: Get 15% off with code **RETICLOUNGE23** at [VivTech Products](https://VivTechProducts.com).
- Heartland Reptiles: Explore their habitat solutions at [Heartland Reptiles](https://HeartlandReptiles.com).
- HeliGuy Serpents: Use code **TRL10** for 10% off at [HeliGuy Serpents](https://HeliGuySerpents.com).
- [ColdBloodedCafe.com](https://coldbloodedcafe.com): For the best feeders around! Use code **REPTILELOUNGE20** for 20% off.

Stay tuned for more reptile adventures, and remember to subscribe!