The Retic Lounge

Collection Update with Spencer Vance of Coiled Retics | The Retic Lounge #133  

In this episode, Nathan sits down solo with Spencer Vance of Coiled Retics for an official update—two years after his first appearance on The Retic Lounge. Spencer shares how his journey with Reticulated Pythons has evolved, from changes in his collection to new keeping and breeding practices.  

Topics Covered:  
- Growth and changes in Spencer’s collection  
- How his approach to keeping and breeding Retics has developed  
- Lessons learned over the past two years  
- The future of Coiled Retics and upcoming breeding projects  
- Insights into the ever-changing landscape of the Retic hobby  

Follow Spencer:  
- [@coiled_retics](https://www.instagram.com/coiled_retics)  

Follow the Hosts:  
- Nathan - [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
- Lucas - [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)  

Thanks to Our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off) - [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) for husbandry tools - [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) - [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) - [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) - [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns)  

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

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

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to see how an aspiring breeder evolves in the Retic industry. Tune in now!

A Tropical Paradise: South American-Themed Greenhouse w/ Zach Porritt | The Retic Lounge #131

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, we sit down with Zach Porritt of @a.life.exotic to explore his incredible South American-themed greenhouse. Zach has created a stunning, self-sustaining ecosystem filled with tropical plants, fish, and reptiles, bringing a slice of the jungle into his own backyard.  

Topics Covered:  
- The vision behind a South American-inspired reptile greenhouse  
- The challenges and rewards of maintaining a living ecosystem  
- How fish, plants, and reptiles work together in a balanced environment  
- Climate control, humidity regulation, and enclosure design in a greenhouse setting  
- The future of naturalistic and bioactive reptile keeping  

Zach’s passion for designing immersive, species-appropriate habitats shines through as he shares what it took to bring this ambitious project to life. Whether you're interested in bioactive enclosures, greenhouse reptile keeping, or just love seeing unique reptile setups, this episode is packed with inspiration and knowledge.  

 Follow the Guests & Hosts:  
- Guest: Zach Porritt - [@a.life.exotic](https://www.instagram.com/a.life.exotic)  
- Hosts:  
  - Nathan - [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
  - Lucas - [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)  

 Thanks to Our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off) - [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) for husbandry tools - [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) - [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) - [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) - [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns)  

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

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

Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most unique reptile setups out there! Tune in now!

Free Roaming Retics?! | Out-of-the-Box Keeping w/ Nikki of Ladytis Exotics | The Retic Lounge #130 

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, we sit down with Nikki of @ladytis_exotics to explore her unique and unconventional approach to keeping Reticulated Pythons. Nikki is known for thinking outside the box when it comes to husbandry, and she shares her experiences with free-roaming retics, creating a more interactive and enriching environment, and treating these incredible animals as true pets rather than just display reptiles.  

Topics Covered:  
- The philosophy behind free-roaming and giving retics more space  
- Benefits of a more hands-off, trust-building approach to socialization  
- How to create a safe and enriching environment for a free-roaming retic  
- Challenges and misconceptions about treating retics as pets  
- The balance between structure and freedom in retic husbandry  

Nikki’s passion for her animals shines through as she shares insights into the deep bonds she’s formed with her snakes and how she believes this approach leads to happier, healthier retics. Whether you’re curious about alternative husbandry methods or looking for ways to build a stronger relationship with your retic, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!  

Folllow the Guests & Hosts:  
- **Guest:** Nikki - [@ladytis_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/ladytis_exotics)  
- **Hosts:**  
  - Nathan - [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
  - Lucas - [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)  
Thanks to Our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off) - [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) for husbandry tools - [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) - [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) - [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [HeliGuy Serpents](https://www.instagram.com/heliguyserpents) (Use code TRL10) - [@heliguyserpents](https://www.instagram.com/heliguyserpents)  

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

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

Tune in now for a fresh perspective on retic keeping!

Reticulated Python Nutrition | TRL Book Club: The Complete Reticulated Python Chapter 10 | The Retic Lounge #129  

In this episode of The Retic Lounge Book Club, Lucas and Nathan break down Chapter 10 of *The Complete Reticulated Python*, diving deep into the nutrition and feeding habits of these incredible animals. They discuss how Reticulated Pythons hunt and consume prey in the wild, the importance of proper diet selection in captivity, and best practices for maintaining a healthy feeding regimen.  

Topics Covered:  
- Natural diet and hunting behaviors of wild Reticulated Pythons  
- How prey selection impacts growth, health, and longevity  
- Feeding frequency and portion control in captivity  
- Debunking myths around power feeding and obesity  
- The role of varied diets and supplementation for optimal health  

Whether you're a new keeper looking for guidance or an experienced breeder refining your husbandry, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you better understand the nutritional needs of Reticulated Pythons.  

Get your copy of *The Complete Reticulated Python* by Glen McClellan: [Purchase Here](https://glenmacherpetofauna.myshopify.com/)  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, and more: [Patreon](http://www.patreon.com/thereticlounge)  

The Resurgence of Bali Locality Reticulated Pythons w/ MayRay Exotics | The Retic Lounge #128  

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas holds down the fort solo while Nathan attends a funeral, sitting down with MayRay Exotics for a deep dive into the resurgence of Bali Locality Reticulated Pythons.  

This conversation highlights the importance of preserving locality-specific genetics, the unique benefits of working with pure localities, and why Bali Reticulated Pythons are making a strong comeback in the reptile community. They discuss the wild-like behaviors often seen in F1 (first-generation captive-bred) animals, and how keeping locality-specific retics allows keepers to bring a piece of the wild into their homes.  

Topics Covered:  
- Why Bali Locality Reticulated Pythons are gaining popularity again  
- Benefits of maintaining pure locality bloodlines  
- Behavioral differences in F1 Reticulated Pythons  
- Challenges and rewards of working with wild-type animals  
- The future of Bali Locality Retics in captivity  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  
- [mayrayexotics](https://www.instagram.com/mayrayexotics)  

If you’re passionate about locality preservation and want to learn more about the Bali resurgence, this episode is packed with valuable insights for both keepers and breeders alike. Don’t miss it!

Episode 127: Species Spotlight – Peacock Monitors w/ Ryan McVeigh

This week on The Retic Lounge, Lucas takes the helm solo to bring you a special Species Spotlight on Peacock Monitors with guest Ryan McVeigh! These stunning, arboreal monitors are as fascinating as they are elusive, and Ryan breaks down everything from their natural history and husbandry requirements to the challenges and rewards of keeping them in captivity.  

This episode is especially exciting because Lucas will soon be welcoming a Peacock Monitor into his collection, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in these incredible lizards!  

Topics Covered: 
✅ Natural habitat & behavior of Peacock Monitors  
✅ Proper enclosure setup & heating/lighting requirements  
✅ Diet & feeding strategies for optimal health  
✅ Tips for handling & socialization  
✅ Challenges of keeping and breeding this species  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  
 

If you're into monitors or just love learning about unique reptile species, this episode is packed with must-know insights. Don't miss it! 🎙️🦎

Episode 126: The Ins and Outs of Breeder Loans w/ Eric Lee | The Snow King Returns  

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, we welcome back Eric Lee, the Snow King of Super Dwarfs, to break down the ins and outs of breeder loans. After first appearing on Episode 9, Eric returns to share his expertise on what makes a successful and appealing breeder loan, how he decides who to collaborate with, and the key logistics involved in structuring a mutually beneficial partnership.  

We also dive into how breeder loans can be a game-changer for pushing forward high-end projects—allowing breeders to expand their work without keeping an excessive number of animals. Whether you’re considering your first breeder loan or looking to refine your current approach, this episode is packed with insights from one of the best in the game.  

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  
- Reptile Husbandry Designs (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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  
- Eric Lee: [@sd_snow_king](https://www.instagram.com/sd_snow_king)  

If you’ve ever wondered how breeder loans can take your projects to the next level, this episode is for you! Tune in now. 🎙️🐍

Episode 124: Troubleshooting Reticulated Python Behavior w/ Alex Carr of Carr Reptiles

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, we sit down with Alex Carr of Carr Reptiles to discuss his journey into the world of Reticulated Pythons. As a new keeper, Alex has embraced the challenge of working with two very different snakes: a confident and curious female and a flighty, defensive male.  

Alex shares his proactive approach to addressing behavioral challenges, including reaching out to experienced leaders in the retic community and becoming part of our Patreon family. Together, we explore strategies to help him shape positive interactions with his male retic before his size and strength make defensive behaviors more problematic.  

This episode offers invaluable insights for keepers of all experience levels, highlighting the importance of mentorship, community, and patience in understanding and shaping retic behavior.  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  
- Alex Carr: [Carr_Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/Carr_Reptiles)  

Tune in for practical tips and relatable experiences from Alex’s journey, and discover how community and guidance can make all the difference in responsible retic keeping!

Episode 123: New Breeder Spotlight | MOD Exotics w/ Jennifer Jean  

In this exciting episode of The Retic Lounge, we shine the spotlight on Jennifer Jean of MOD Exotics, a passionate new breeder making waves in the Super Dwarf Reticulated Python community.  

Jennifer shares her journey into the world of reticulated pythons, from her first experiences with these majestic animals to curating an incredible collection of Super Dwarf Retics. We delve into her daily husbandry practices, the challenges and rewards of breeding, and her innovative plans for the future.  

This is a must-listen for anyone in the retic community, offering inspiration and insight from a new breeder who’s already contributing to the evolution of the hobby with her dedication and vision.  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  
- Jennifer Jean: [MOD_Exotics](https://www.instagram.com/MOD_Exotics)  

Tune in to hear how Jennifer is shaping the future of the Super Dwarf world and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in retic breeding!

Episode 122: Make Retics Great Again | The Retic Market and Will It Stabilize?

After a month-long break, The Retic Lounge is back and kicking off 2025 with a thought-provoking discussion on the future of the reticulated python market!  

We start by reflecting on the highlights and achievements of 2024 for The Retic Lounge—what a year it’s been! From groundbreaking interviews to our TRL Book Club series, we celebrate the moments that made an impact.  

Then, we dive into the current state of the reticulated python market, starting with the Mainland Market and how its fluctuations could shape the Super Dwarf and locality markets. With insights into trends, challenges, and opportunities, we provide actionable advice for keepers, breeders, and enthusiasts alike.  

Finally, we share our predictions for the retic market in 2025. Will it stabilize? Can we make retics great again? Tune in to hear our take!  

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 exclusive content, early episodes, 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)  

Let’s start 2025 strong and set the stage for another incredible year in the retic community! 🎉