top of page
22175 STATE ROUTE 2 MONROE,
WA 98272
 
PHONE:  360.805.5300
 
HOURS:   10:00AM - 6:00PM
22175 STATE ROUTE 2 MONROE,
WA 98272
 
PHONE:  360.805.5300
  • w-facebook
  • Twitter Clean
  • w-flickr

Conservation is about protecting the animals and plants that help make the world a more beautiful and exciting place. Animals and plants also allow us to survive by giving us the air we breathe, the food we eat, and by purifying the water we drink. We need nature and nature needs us to help preserve it. We are all stewards of this incredible place we call Earth and it is our responsibility to innovate and discover new ways to coexist with nature in a more sustainable way. Present and future generations are depending on us to do so. 

 

  • Why are reptiles important to us?

    • Most reptiles are natural carnivores and eat animals that many people consider to be pests.

      • In many parts of the world farmers welcome snakes and lizards onto their land because they get rid of insects, rodents (rats and mice) and other animals that eat their crops (like wheat and corn). They help save our food!  

      • Many snakes and some lizards eat rodents which spread diseases to people.

    • Some reptiles provide skins which boost the economy in areas where they are hunted and farmed sustainably.

    • They are an important source of protein for many people throughout the world.

    • Reptiles kept as pets can provide an exciting and rewarding experience for their keepers.

    • Snake venom is being used to help treat heart attacks and blood diseases, brain injuries, strokes, and disorders like Alzheimer’s.

    • Many cultures view reptiles as a symbol of fertility, the cyclic nature of life, power, and mischief.

  • Why are reptiles important to plants and other animals?

    • Reptiles that are herbivores (animals that eat mostly plants) are seed dispersers, especially on island habitats. Rock iguanas in the Caribbean do a great job of seed dispersing.

    • Some act as pollinators such as the blue tailed day gecko.

    • All reptiles provide fertilizer (feces) that plants need to survive.

    • They are food for many other kinds of animals including birds and mammals.

    • Many reptiles are considered keystone species that indicate the overall health of an ecosystem. If their populations decline or become extinct it can lead to the demise or extinction of other species.

    • Alligators dig gator holes which are often the only aquatic habitat left during the dry season in parts of the Southeastern United States. These gator holes provide refuge for fish, turtles, birds, and other animals.  

    • Many burrowing tortoises provide homes for other animals. The gopher tortoise from the Southeastern United States provide homes for over 400 different species of animals. Their burrows protect these animals from the heat of the sun, predators, and wildfires.

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

bottom of page