Reptiles in Need, A Young Boy’s Mission

Aiden, just a little boy, at the tender age of 1 1/2, when he met his first reptile. We just moved in next door to a couple who had many reptiles and amphibians. Aiden kept saying “Turtles mommy, Can I see the turtles?” Little did we know, meeting our new neighbors would change our lives forever.

Our new neighbors Leonard and Nancy Knapp were the owners of a reptile rescue. Mr. Knapp owned and operated Reptilrama. They had so many animals. They had turtles, tortoises, bearded dragons, skinks, snakes and so much more. This was huge interest for Aiden. Everyday Aiden went over, bringing food and care items. Seeing the spark, Mr. Knapp took Aiden under his wing, educated Aiden on proper care, handling and feeding of all these little critters. For 6 years, Aiden always gave 110% of himself. But then, in the spring of 2014, Aiden’s world came crashing down.

Mr. Knapp had passed. Aiden not knowing what to do, took this loss extremely hard. The man that he had worked with for so long, taining with, learning from and one of his hero’s was just suddenly gone. Everything around him changed. The summer was hard for him, but he managed to keep himself busy.

On September 2, 2014, Aiden approach us with his birthday wish. His wish....to be able to follow in Mr. Knapp’s foot steps, to be able to use his knowledge and skills and open a reptile rescue. Thus, on this date, Slimy, Scaly, Taily Reptile Rescue was established.

For the last 5 years, Aiden has kept the memory of his hero, Mr. Leonard Knapp alive. He keeps a picture of Mr. Knapp in his wallet and one in his room. Everyday, he uses his knowledge, skills and most of all....his loving heart to help care for all the sick, abused and relinquished reptiles in need.