Our journey with reptiles

Discover the story behind Zerkle Reptile Co, from our humble beginnings to our passion for unique species. Learn what drives us and our commitment to exceptional reptile care.

The unexpected beginning

Our journey began in 1983, quite by accident. After several years of owning a pet shop in the early eighties, we unexpectedly bred common boas that were on display. This serendipitous event sparked a deep fascination and led us to connect with experts like Lloyd Lemke from Visalia, California, who helped us understand reptile breeding with consistency. In 1988, a reptile swap meet in Millersport, Ohio, co-owned by Don Hamper, further ignited our interest in captive breeding. We credit both Don and Lloyd immensely for shaping Zerkle Reptile Co into what it is today.

Our unique passion for reptiles

What sets Zerkle Reptile Co apart is our dedication to the reptiles we genuinely love. We don't chase fleeting market trends; instead, we focus on working with species that truly captivate us. We have a deep-seated love for old-world colubrids and animals that are outside the norm. This passion ensures that every reptile we breed receives the utmost care and attention, guided by our genuine interest in their well-being and unique characteristics.

Fostering positive reptile experiences

At Zerkle Reptile Co, our core value is to bring interest and positive experiences to everyone interacting with animals that are not commonly worked with. We strive to educate and share our enthusiasm, ensuring that our customers feel confident and inspired by their interactions. Our goal is to make the world of unique reptiles accessible and enjoyable, creating lasting positive connections between people and these extraordinary creatures.

A satisfied customer

Read our latest news

In this space, we share inspiration, tips, and stories that help you get the most out of our services. Whether you're looking for helpful tips, background information, or a behind-the-scenes look: you'll find it all here. We regularly post new articles, so keep an eye on the blog for updates and new insights.

Breeding Black Milksnakes and more 6/15/26

    Our group of Black milksnakes breeders likes to get it on somewhat late in the year, generally gives us a nice group of fall babies. A large bodied solid black animal that enjoys a cooler habitat makes them idea for our collection.

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