I am currently working with four yearling Reticulated Gila Monsters. I purchased them from Dr. Mark Seward in Colorado. They are wonderful animals and every one of them has a different personality. I try to handle them often (usually during feeding). The first two have become very docile and are very easy to handle. The other two are still a little defensive so, they are handled with a welding glove. It took me a while to get used to the handling technique. I received two small bites since January. Even though they were very small, short, nips, the pain was out of this world. It lasted for a good 6 hours. None the less, I really love these animals, bite or no bite. I am getting the funds together now to purchase an adult pair. I am very much looking forward to next years breeding season. I seriously doubt I will sell any of the hatchlings this first go around.

Mark's animals are spectacular. Check out his website www.docseward.com

I will be working on a YouTube video of my animals soon.

I found my first Gila Monster in May of 2000, road cruising a 4 wheel trail in the Organ Pipe National Monument. It was about 8:30 PM and about 85 degrees F. I managed to get three shots off using my old Nikon FM, a flash and some good slide film. After that minute and a half of excitement, I was hooked! I was so excited, I got lost on the way down the mountain trail only to get stopped by 4 Boarder Patrol cars. They were friendly and were only interested if I had any illegals hiding in the Chevy Blazer. When I explained what I was doing and told them what I found, they asked if they could "see" my new found Gila. I don't think they had any idea that they were protected. If it would have been DNR, it would have been another story...........

I sure would be interested in some more Gila stories......this is my first blog,,,hope I did OK???