Since before I can remember, people have been asking me, “Why?” Why am I covered in dirt? Why am I always carrying a snake or a salamander in my hands? Why would I be interested in moths? I’ve simply never understood these questions. To me, I always answer those questions with a question of my own, “Why not?”.

Studying newts in a stream, gently letting them go and watching as they move and interact with their surroundings… this type of careful, patient observation is my way of understanding the world. To some people, it may seem like an odd and dirty way of operating. But, interacting with these animals is in my nature. I love to observe absolutely every living thing around me.

I have dedicated my entire life to wildlife conservation. Growing up and recognizing from a young age the lack of respect that modern civilization has for nature and all of it’s inhabitants has inspired me to take my goal of conservation to a whole new level.

I constantly push my limits in order to produce some of the most eye catching and moving footage around so that people may begin to see these powerful animals in a positive and awe inspiring light, rather than in fear.

I have found that spreading knowledge, love, and appreciation for these commonly misunderstood animals is the best way to make the largest impact in the shortest amount of time.

So join me, in this uphill battle against the majority. Help me fight for those animals who still have a chance of survival. They will stand defenseless against this dark cloud of pollution, and lack of awareness that shrouds our world if we do nothing. So this is the time to act. I’ll guide you with all kinds of ways we can turn more and more people like yourself into conservationists. Lets save this world together, one species at a time.

– Tyler Riffel-“Reptile Riff”