Monty's Day Out

Wednesday, my snake, Monty, and I went to Monarch Montessori school to talk to the kids (two classes, ages ranging from 2 to 7) about herpetology.  They were able to recite the words "herpetology" and "Monty" in unison, and then I got Monty out of my backpack and things got exciting.  Nearly all of them wanted to pet him, even many who initially claimed to be afraid of snakes.  While half of them lined up to pet Monty or tickle his tummy, the others used my snake tongs to practice picking up (fake) snakes like little herpetologists.  Pictured below are three kiddos who came back for second and third pets, and Dr. Salem's daughter, Allison, giving Monty a back scratch.