This is not uncommon. It happens all too often.

It's one of the reasons I like to take my tegus to the local park. It allows them to wander and enjoy the sun. It allows me to sit and relax.. but most importantly, it allows all of the locals to meet me, see the tegus, see how calm and mellow they are. They can see for themselves how this large tame lizard will follow the kids around the park until the kids pet them. In the many years I have been going to the park I have seen many attitudes change from "eww" to "wow, they are not what I expected".

It's changing peoples minds about reptiles before an issue arises that is of the most benefit. Get out there and educate people now. Talk to people in your area. Do show-n-tells for the local kids groups. Keep in mind, if you can get the reptile interest into the heart of the young, these are the kids who will grow up to men and women who run out cities, states & country!

Rick Sisco