Community Corner
'Reptile Guy' in Running to be Wild Kingdom's Next Wild Guide
Erik the Reptile Guy is semifinalist in video competition that runs until May 24.
It's a jungle out there, especially when you're Erik Callender, known to many on Long Island as Erik the Reptile Guy.
Callender–who can be seen hanging around Repxotica in West Islip chatting with the pet store owners about reptiles and picking up his next exotic animal–is currently a semifinalist in a Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom contest to be the show's next Wild Guide.
The animated naturalist studies reptiles and amphibians in places as far away as Madagascar and as close as your backyard towing his menagerie of animals to perform at birthday parties and educational seminars in local libraries.
In a letter Callender posted on his Facebook page he explained the roots of his love of animals.
"Ever since I was a young boy my family has always encouraged me to follow my dreams, and I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to do just that! Ever since I found my first toad, bull frog and turtles at camp I have been in love with life... I truly believe this is important for all of us and that the best way to see the simplicity in the joy of life is by connecting to nature!"
Click here to check out Callender's video and vote for him. Voting will take place until May 24 and you can vote once every 24-hours.
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