Steve's Herpetological Blog

An insight into the life of Steve, his research and the many books he reads

Reptiles

#SciFri: Visiting Crocodiles of the World on Halloween!

Located in the Oxfordshire countryside near Brize Norton, between Witney and Burford, Crocodiles of the World is perhaps one of the most unusual zoological attractions in Britain. As the UK’s only zoo dedicated specifically to crocodilians, it offers visitors an…

#StevesLibrary: Snake Day – A Story of 24 Hours and 24 Serpentine Lives

Snakes are among the most misunderstood animals on the planet. They have inspired mythology, folklore, religious symbolism and popular culture, yet they continue to provoke disproportionate fear and hostility. For many people, an encounter with a snake is something to…

#SteveReviews: Monsters of God

If you know much about the reptile pet trade, you will be aware that it has an illegal and upsetting dark side. Eric Goode’s Monsters of God is an uncomfortable documentary series because its subject is simultaneously fascinating, disturbing and…

#StevesLibrary: The Lives of Snakes – A Natural History of the World’s Snakes

Who is ready for another book review? The Lives of Snakes: A Natural History of the World’s Snakes by Chris Mattison is an ambitious and beautifully presented exploration of one of the most misunderstood groups of animals on Earth. Written…

#SciFri: ARC-BHS Joint Scientific Meeting 2025

Back in November, it was that time of year again where your favourite herpetologists from around the country (and further afield) descend on the seaside town of Bournemouth. For most of you, I suspect that this generally marks the start…

#SciFri: Herpetofauna Workers Meeting 2026

It has recently been that time of year again. The Herpetofauna Workers Meeting (HWM) has become one of the most important gatherings in the British herpetological calendar. Organised by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) in partnership with the Amphibian and…

#ToyTuesday: Mojo Fun Amphibians and Reptiles Part II

You may remember that back in April I reviewed a number of smaller amphibians and reptiles from Mojo Fun, which was Part I of this series. I kind of forgot about the other half of the figurines that I had,…

#ToyTuesday: Reviewing the Toymany 12-Piece Madagascar Figurine Playset

Up until this point, the sets I have been reviewing from Toymany have focussed primarily on amphibians and reptiles. Well, I am about to flip the script with a number of sets that may have some amphibians or reptiles in…

#ToyTuesday: Herpetological Gashapon Round Up Vol. 3

This is the third roundup of my gashapon hunting, and the first of 2026! I have a few more adventures in store soon so fingers crossed I manage to pick up some new reptiles and amphibians. After my next adventure,…

#ToyTuesday: Enter the Toymany Turtles Giveaway!

In the run-up to Christmas, it is time to shellobrate the holidays. Therefore, I am giving away one of the 6-piece Toymany Turtle Playsets to one of you. You’ll also have the opportunity for a personal Zoom call with me…