Person: "I have an animal that is impossible to tame down." Kevin: "Let mew try." Kevin's techniques can be used on any animal, but best for reptiles. He really is an unsung hero.
I agree. I love the taming videos. This is all accurate as far as I have learned through experience. These videos always teach me something new and give me new techniques. I have the two het ocelot het indo caramel retics from you Kevin. They're doing great and love to interact with people. More taming vids! love yall!
He is very cute despite his unsureness with huffing and puffing! You building up his trust is amazing to watch! To see him being tamed and have a good relationship with a person can only be a win win! ❤
I’m so thankful for Kevin. He has helped me so much. Medical, educational, and logically within tapping and appreciating these creatures. Much much love and amounts of gratitude.
I've always described croc monitors as "tree-climbing velociraptors with a bullwhip for a tail". Really high level monitor lizard, but one that I understand is incredibly rewarding to keep, if you know how to work with them. This is a beautiful video 💖
Just rename any procedure videos to emulate those nasty pimple popping ones, glue some beans to the back of Kevin’s hand, or title them like the hoof GP does and constantly remind everyone that liquid isn’t blood….
Ive found your threads of trust techniques work pretty well with rescue dogs! My friend had a rescue so nervous that he couldnt even stand being looked in the eyes, and attempted to bite if you even made a move towards him from across the room. But after a month of slowly gaining his trust we were all able to pet him and show him love! Kevin truly is an animal expert.
So nostalgic of my time spent working with a very defensive and paranoid cat~ She was basically a croc monitor in feline form lol. Once she stopped trying to murder everything to ever come within reach, she was a truly wonderful companion, and now I find myself so drawn to reptiles precisely because they remind me so much of her and what an amazing experience it was working with her. These videos really are invaluable!
My beardie chases my cat! The look on my cats face the day Harry climbed up the stairs after him was priceless lol. Gizzi the cat often sits in front of one of my Leo's viv and watches him. Just like a human watching tv 🙂
I was adopted by a cat like that. She was abused I think and abandoned and would hiss if you moved too fast but for some reason she liked me even though I’m not even a cat person. Finally I gave in. I named her Pazza (Italian for crazy) and when I pet her she purred like a lawnmower.
Kevin is one of most respected people in the herpetology hobby listening to him is like getting a university lecturer for free there are very few greats that can share the level he is at. Just waiting for the day he visits the uk.
I will never own a large monitor, however, these techniques that Kevin is sharing will be used on every new reptile I purchase. Building trust is extremely important to me, as I enjoy handling my snakes and geckos. Thank you so much for your wonderful videos! I adore you Kevin, please more socialization videos!
I love socialization videos, just for the feels. The medical videos really feed the information-hungry side of my brain. And the way your new little friend crawled up Kevin’s back and peeked over his shoulder gave me the idea that he was trusting Kevin to protect/hide him from the big scary eyeball/camera. You all do excellent work! Keep it up!
Kevin your techniques are truly amazing and work well (I have a Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink that was practically scared of his shadow, but now he is often hanging out on a branch basking and even lets me pet him a little bit. It's a work in progress but each episode I learn a little more) but I have to say that there will never be anyone that will ever be as good at what you do as you do. You have an instinctual level of understanding, care, and love for these little guys that most people will never be able to copy. For reference, when you mentioned that you weren't apprehensive or nervous at all while handling Spot (he needed a temporary name) I realized that in all the videos of you teaching "threads of trust" I never understood the biggest lesson, you don't move slowly and carefully to avoid being bit but rather to avoid scaring your new friend... And I'm so glad I realized this because I've been petrified of my Tailless Whip Scorpion ever since I got him, but now realizing that he's just a scared little dude that doesn't want to hurt me I'm ready to attempt building threads of trust with him until I might eventually be able to hold him 😱
What a beautiful animal. Watching how you interact with them is so relaxing, so I know the animals feel calm around you. I enjoy all of your videos, but it’s such a shame that TH-cam won’t let you have any new medical videos up, because I would imagine a lot of reptile keepers value your advice & instructions on how to deal with certain conditions/injuries etc. I hope you Kevin & the rest of the Nerd team are having a great weekend.
I could happily sit and watch you socialising these beautiful creatures, all day, every day!! I've developed a deep love for monitors, after watching your videos and other reptile keepers interacting with them.
This might be my favorite NERD video ever. Kevin’s threads of trusts and modes make so much sense. This can help everyone have better relationship with their pets. So thankful for Kevin. Oh, and Donny. 😆💜☮️
Kevin once again you proved yourself to be a legend and the monitor whisperer! Love these videos of your interactions with the animal and just seeing the change! I would love seeing more videos like this. I havent seen anyone else able to do the things you can eith these animals. Much love from Delaware!
I work a lot with animal fostering and wildlife rehabilitation for animals that can’t ever be released into the wild, and keep reptiles. I can’t even begin to express how much your teaching on behaviors and threads of trust has helped me and in turn helped other people I’ve either talked to about it myself or referred to your videos (because you explain it so much better than I do 😅) So grateful for the time and effort you put into education and animal welfare. 👏🏻
The threads of trust methods have helped me a ton with both boas, pythons and even Leopard Geckos. Fear seems to easily ruin things, on the part of the human lol. Ive experienced that myself even. I had a boa that was a chainsaw, open mouth hissing if she even saw me, striking, fleeing etc. Now after however long using your methods, she climbs right out to say hello (unless shes in shed or something) i can pick her up, even pet her under the chin, no hissing nothing. The methods work, that fear just has to not cloud things (which admittedly is easier to say with a boa and not a flippin terrified Croc Monitor lol)
Sometimes I feel like I need Kevin to help me with my own socialization skills with other people 😂😂😂 As I always say, it truly is a pleasure to listen to you teach us the reasons why behind what you do and why it works. Then we get to see it. Hope you all have a great weekend!!! 🙏🏻💜
True. Children aren't raised with functional social skills anymore & the insanity of lockdowns & constant "the world's on FIRE & everything is laterally HITLER!" messaging on media & fearmongering is crippling people. It's awful.
Just have to say I've never owned a reptile of any sort but I've done Schutzhund and dog show training for 20 yrs and I totally appreciate your calm and reading the animal! I totally get it and do it as well! I love how you flow with them! Subtle signs for the inexperienced is something everyone needs to learn! Love your handling videos! ❤❤❤
Love these behavior videos! I worked in vet med for 30+ years and at the end of my career I was certified Fear Free Elite. Which focused on the mind as well as the medical. I absolutely love your approach to the mind! I have my dream now of owning reptiles and you have been such a tremendous asset in my education. Thank you! And Utube needs to grow a pair and let you post your medical vids. 😊
The medical videos are extremely useful. There are no exotic veterinarians in my area . When two of my Graybanded Kingsnakes retained a couple of eggs it was up to me to resolve the issue. Fortunately I was able to find a TH-cam video on how to insert a needle and drain the retained eggs. This was 3 years ago and both snakes are healthy and doing very well. Had it not been for the videos that I watched I wouldn't have attempted the procedure. I also make it a point to handle / socialize all of my animals as it makes it less stressful for all concerned when it comes cleaning time. I get to know and recognize each unique personality of all my reptiles.
Bless you Kevin and his team, keep doing what you’re doing, in calling out the FWC to help support responsible owners and keep so many reptiles safe. You really are the reptile whisperer 🙌🏻 seeing that croc monitor calm down in your presence was amazing. 🤗
Awesome video fellas ! Kevin has skill , making a Sketchy Croc monitor look basically tame as a dog . He understands these animals wonderfully ! God bless , and peace .
I think it amazing how you interact with and are able to see the subtle changes in the demeanour of the reptiles and interact with them accordingly so that no trust is lost and every interaction becomes positive,, Your Awesome Kevin!!
So happy to see this video this morning! Thank you Kevin! I have been working 14 hour night shifts doing industrial programming far away from home at a cement plant in a small city in Honduras. I'm missing my animals. Im missing home, but this makes it all better.
I thought I would be bored right away, then I thought you were going to get bit which kept my attention, but then I was truly mesmerized by how you and the Monitor interacted with each other, and was amazed at your ability to not react, risking getting bit vs. trust that he was beginning to feel comfortable with you. The way you spoke the entire time was calm, and your understanding of this maligned boy is proof that animals aren't really that much different than us. Great video!!
3:08 Kevin has balls of steel. Sitting on my couch, watching on the computer, I jumped at least 5 inches into the air. I don't know how he didn't react even a little bit. Didn't even flinch. 😲
Yes, please more socialization videos! My family enjoys them so much. I LOVE the medical ones too, but I know YT sucks for that. Thank you for all you and your team do!❤
Kevin and Donny you both have done an amazing job spreading awareness about the reptile community. Please keep it up. Your videos are so informative and I personally would love to see more socializations and interactions with all the various animals you have. It would be nice to see all of your employees too interact because it gives a unique perspective at all levels too! Keep up the great work!!!
Same, I was so amazed that the monitor didn't at all get agressive and let him even touch. You have to be very calm and confident and know what you're doing, which he does.
Going slow and under the chin helps alot with many reptiles. That is how i pick up my Tokays and rarely get tagged. Go in slow, if they open their mouth or bark they usually stand up and arch their body so then you can slowly get your hand underneath where they cant bite you. As soon as you scoop them up their mindset changes into think mode and work from there. Slow, chill movements and nothings sacred. Hard not to jump at the barks sometimes but thats part of the fun.
I can't even explain the emotions I feel watching Kevin work with these animals. I am in tears writing this comment! Kevin is a hero to the reptile world. Saving lives and helping animals to live less stressful, more peaceful lives! ❤❤
Kevin i love watching your videos where someone gives you an animal and says its too mean and bites. Then very shortly you show them how it's done. Love It Kevin youre the best bar none. Thank you for everything you do to ensure all animals are treated with respect and care.
The key to success here, seems to me, to be coaxing and manipulating the animal out of its instinctive hardwired reactive behavior patterns and and in turn manipulating it into using its intellectual problem solving capacities to enable in it critical awareness of its surroundings, so it can rationally conclude there is no imminent threat present. Easier said than done lol, but entirely possible with an individual of a species possessing this degree of mental faculty. I believe it's a talent some people have but most do not, but it's a display of intellectual empathy, it seems to me, to a large degree, which is entirely teachable. Brilliant work and very altruistic of Kevin to share this knowledge and instruction with the world. He's so much better than old so called animal whisperers from cable TV. Plus the content isn't all frufru esoteric bs with interminable and obnoxious commercial breaks. Tysm, guys.
Just love watchingyou gain the trust of a new animal. The way you do it is so amazing. Bless for you for being the compapssionate educator you are. Thanks for being you!!
I always forget how small all of these monitors(and often snakes) are in person vs. on video. This is super cool. I wish I was responsible and dedicated enough to own a croc monitor(or any large monitor really.)
More more more! If it’s any consolation I’ve never owned a reptile, don’t think I’ve even ever touched a snake. Not scare of them just haven’t had an opportunity to interact. I look forward to your videos, so you’ve definitely hit an audience that finds all this content new and amazing. Thanx for sharing your passion with us.
@@NewEnglandReptile Have you given any thought to contacting networks like Animal Planet, Discovery, etc? Not a reality show, an educational program with your kind of specialized knowledge and humor, Hell I’d watch it ;) The star of the show has to be Snarfles and the Dr. Lol Anyway just a thought.
What a great video! I learn so much watching Kevin, his methods & ethics. Personally, I find both the medical & socialisation videos to be equally interesting & I hope Kevin knows that he is a great teacher.
I love both your socialization videos and your medical videos. As someone who's been very attuned to my horse's body language for years and the many times it's saved me in dangerous situations and how I've been able to develop a wonderful relationship with my boy I am trying to soak up as much information as you can give me for the reptiles I want to get next year. And as someone whose owned many different animals over the years the medical videos are incredibly valuable information. Thank you for all your work in putting them out there for us all to see and learn from.❤
I love these socialization videos. I have a Jackson’s chameleon who is terrified of me and I’ve had him for over two years ! I’ve tried to get him used to me but nothing has worked.
This is such a fantastic video. I am a huge believer in how crucial it is to know the psychology of the animal and, equally, how crucial patience is...patience, patience, patience. What a fabulous animal and look how much you have accomplished with him already. It is so heartwarming. I agree with your take on target feeding. I personally want an animal to react to me, not a ball. Yes, I would love to see more socialization videos. I'm a retired vet surgical tech. I think people don't like seeing anything that might remotely 'hurt' an animal or see blood, physical procedures, etc. A lot of people are very soft-hearted and can't stand to see anything being done. As you can imagine, I have seen more than my fair share of and participated in many intense procedures, but I do understand their angst. HI had to take my Horsefield tortoise in for a beak trim and was incapable of watching much to the hilarity of the vet and tech...how embarrassing!!! So I get it. You mentally have to take the next step and realize what is begin done is only for the good of the animal. I flunk that step when it comes to my own animals!
Videos on socializing/learning to read the specific ways different animals send out information are definitely what I personally like to see. Plus the more people that learn that animals are a lot more complex/communicative than we often first think, the more people can approach animals in ways that end up as an overall positive thing. Personally I've found trying to communicate with animals on their level and trying to know what wavelength they're on to be really rewarding. Good way to learn about yourself and other people too
I really enjoy the animal behavior videos, in-fact your methods have really been great for the snakes and things I have rescued from people that thought they were aggressive, I haven’t been bitten for a very long time and really have outstanding relationships with all my animals because of the threads of trust method you teach so thank you and I can’t wait to see more!
Kevin I love to watch you interact with your reptiles. I’m 78 and I’ve just in the last two years wished I could have learned from you when I was younger so I wouldn’t have been afraid of snakes my whole life. Thank you for showing me you just have to learn about the scary things in life to not be afraid of them. You’re great! Thank you.
Kevin, I absolutely love your educational socialising videos!! As a veterinary nurse I'm used to working with many different types of animals. However, I've never had a chance to work with reptiles, apart from my own corn snakes, so watching your videos on socialising has taught me such a lot. I watch many reptile channels on YT, but none are as educational as you, truly. Thank you so much for taking the time to make these awesome videos, and thank you also for caring for these wonderful creatures. I absolutely love you! You're fantastic. 👍🏻 Much love, from a huge fan, Wales, United Kingdom
Awesome! Beautiful croc monitor and great work handling and keeping it calm! I’d love to see more of this especially from the beginning, I.e. a wild caught coming in or a particularly cantankerous individual, even through multiple videos. Thanks for doing these!
Kevin, this was incredible to watch. I have great respect for Croc Monitors and the major damage they can inflict. Watching you read this one was amazing and I found that I was recognizing its different modes myself (due to your videos and Crutchfield’s). What an awesome Croc Monitor and thank you for passing along your knowledge. 🦎❤️🦎 I trained Dobermans for years. You are absolutely correct!
An idea for a video would be a check in on some of the NERD reptiles we have come to know and love that are still around (I know some were quite old like Wretched and Papa). It would be great to see Dozer&Tonka, Wally, Bubba, Jazmine, Thor, Lorelei, and of course Snarfles (and anyone else) again!
I appreciate the socialization videos because the information is relevant to all kinds of animals and not just reptiles. The "modes of behavior" point that Kevin talks about is important because an animal does NOT need "intelligence" for its behavior to be modified - it needs conditioning to rewire its brain so it doesn't associate the presence of the human with fear. With many animals, one of the most important things is to find a food that will allow you to instantly reward behaviors, so you can work with the animal purposefully and make progress. With reptiles, the feeding dynamic is so different that it doesn't always lend itself to that type of conditioning. The "reward" for the animal is that it can relax and not expend energy being defensive or fleeing. Our own behavior can be modified the same way, unconsciously, with zero intelligence involved. I think Kevin would really like this book: "Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training - Volume I: Adaptation and Learning." (not all three volumes) It's expensive and academic, but not just useful for dogs. I have no dogs but have learned more about animal neurology and learning from this book than from any other reference. I can't recommend it highly enough and know he would love reading it. Here is a quote relevant to this video: "The safety-relaxation theory suggests that dogs [or other animals] experience stimuli associated with relief from aversive stimulation [stress] as though they were positive reinforcers...in addition to establishing various conditioned associations with rewards [e.g., food], 'praise' represents a safety signal of some importance and usefulness...because praise consistently 'predicts' the absence of aversive stimulation, it gradually becomes highly desirable in itself and may be treated as a kind of conditioned positive reinforcer." The "praise" in this situation with a croc monitor, is Kevin using his voice and touch to interact with the animal in a manner that doesn't cause it to react defensively or fearfully - the animal can then associate the sights, sounds, smell, and touch of Kevin with non-reactive or "thinking" modes of behavior rather than with feeding or fleeing behaviors. Sorry this is so dense.
Kevin watching you interact with these animals are amazing. I have been working with reptiles for years and still learn something new from you with every video up put out. Thank you so much for both your handling videos and medical videos.
Kevin, great point about the colors! I work with birds of prey and I’ve been saying this for years! Red triggers raptors and even fingernail color will get you tagged. Yes please, more handling videos! You’ve helped me so much with my lizards and snakes. Thank you!
What I absolutely adore about this channel, and Kevin, is how calm, easily understandable, and knowledgeable he is. Whenever he talks, he demonstrates, and still obviously shows great respect and love for these animals. He never comes off as smug, and the "I know better". Even though he most definietly does. I'd reckon even the most stubborn, boar-headed people would listen to him. Huge respect, and many, many thanks for the knowledge you share. The icing on the cake is that he does it for free. This man (and his team) is a gem.
it’s so important to recognize how reptile brains work.. they seem like much more understandable creatures then! to respect; not fear. 💗 thank you for another awesome video! and yay for that lil monitor c’: I’m glad it’s getting taken care of. 💕
I always learn something from Kevin’s videos. They present content in an interesting and engaging way, always with great photography from Donnie. Many thanks to both of you. Love, hugs, and kisses from Texas. (We are not all morons down here, I promise.)
THESE are the videos I want to see! It's very rare they just accept crawling into your hands. They run, they jump, they hiss, they whip. Thank you NERD and please keep making socialization videos like this for the monitors that aren't so friendly! You're the GOAT
I absolutely love your understanding of animals. I've met or seen too many people who think animals are their "property" or assume that an animal will automatically do what they want when they want it. They refuse to understand that it's a living being with it's own thoughts, concerns, and needs. While they may not have as complex of thought patterns as other animals at the root of it most animals appreciate patience, love, and respect. It's incredibly refreshing to see this being understood and shown publicly to thousands of viewers!
This never gets old. I wish you had time to author more books. I get a lot of sos calls from Reptile keepers in our community. The first thing I talk about are the threads of trust, which segues right into recommending they watch the whole NERD library on TH-cam. (P.S. Can you really blame him for keeping an eye on Donnie tho? 🤣😂🤣😂)
Dam it being shut down because of your medical videos sucks because I was learning for you Kevin. Hope the next time goes better and it’s crazy what fwc has been doing
It’s amazing to watch Kevin work with these animals. Puts a lot of trust in the animals to act similarly to others he has encountered. Of course, since he’s trying real hard to not be threatening…they have to notice this. They do have intelligence and that’s what Kevin keys on. Getting them to think before they act. The old “action vs. reaction” method that many of us were taught as kids. I know that Kenan always praises Tom Crutchfield on his work with Croc Monitors, you did a fine job with this animal. Really great video.
I personally love this type of video, my actual favorite! I want to be able to help folks better when they have defensive animals, I'm great with dogs but I love reptiles more!
I can tell the animal calms you down too.. I love your videos. They have helped me with my beardie so much. Ive built a lot of threads if trust with her and she actually came to me today when she came out of her enclosure. She is already chill so the training just made her even cooler
This was fascinating to watch. Thanks for sharing & the indepth explanation. Watching you calm him down and show respect for his space was amazing. He really responded so positively. Loved this! 🦎
As someone who works with and is often given "problem" animals like horses, zebra, donkeys, and reptiles, I love your approach. Your "threads of trust" really encompass working with a multitude of species. I am here for that!
This is the first time I've seen this channel but it's certainly not my last. I like the confidence of the presenter and the obvious kindness shown to the beautiful croc monitor.
Bad ass! Kevin teaching the things you are can save so many animals from bad experiences to good ones! I am sure you see this over and over wher people do not understand what they are getting into when they buy one of these awesome lizards. This information is Gold Thank You sir!
One of the best monitor videos ever Kevin that way you are you No Flinch not scared one bit and you have the touch We do the same techniques Taught by you to us This was so good !!!!!!!!!
Absolutely beautiful animal. Love their bearded dragon type feet that are huge. Kevin you are right not to react, worry or have anxiety while interacting with the croc monitor because I was all those things for you!!! Omg I was on pins and needles about to have a coronary while watching you handle the animal. I kept thinking CHOMP CHOMP the entire time. So relieved nothing happened!
Person: "I have an animal that is impossible to tame down."
Kevin: "Let mew try."
Kevin's techniques can be used on any animal, but best for reptiles. He really is an unsung hero.
Very kind. K
I agree. I love the taming videos. This is all accurate as far as I have learned through experience. These videos always teach me something new and give me new techniques. I have the two het ocelot het indo caramel retics from you Kevin. They're doing great and love to interact with people. More taming vids! love yall!
He is very cute despite his unsureness with huffing and puffing! You building up his trust is amazing to watch! To see him being tamed and have a good relationship with a person can only be a win win! ❤
@@NewEnglandReptile I’d love it if you could give advice on how to build trust with my juvenile Savannah monitor
You're approaching that lizard exactly the way I start with scared dogs at the animal shelter. Slowly, slowly. This is beautiful work.
Kevin is the croc monitor whisperer.. actually he’s a whisperer of all animals and reptiles.. just amazing what he does
Thank you!!!!! I still have my fingers too! K
@@NewEnglandReptile🤣😂🤣😂👏👏
I’m so thankful for Kevin.
He has helped me so much. Medical, educational, and logically within tapping and appreciating these creatures. Much much love and amounts of gratitude.
I've always described croc monitors as "tree-climbing velociraptors with a bullwhip for a tail". Really high level monitor lizard, but one that I understand is incredibly rewarding to keep, if you know how to work with them. This is a beautiful video 💖
Thank you! K
I like the medical videos which sound like TH-cam won’t have it . But the socialization videos are one of my favorites.
TH-cam wont let us have too much to think, they shutdown anything extremely useful
I looove the medical videos. This seems to be the only place that has such content, and of such high quality.
ME TOOOO!
Yeah all of the socialization videos are great. I’d love to see him work more with his dwarf caimans on video
Just rename any procedure videos to emulate those nasty pimple popping ones, glue some beans to the back of Kevin’s hand, or title them like the hoof GP does and constantly remind everyone that liquid isn’t blood….
Ive found your threads of trust techniques work pretty well with rescue dogs! My friend had a rescue so nervous that he couldnt even stand being looked in the eyes, and attempted to bite if you even made a move towards him from across the room. But after a month of slowly gaining his trust we were all able to pet him and show him love! Kevin truly is an animal expert.
So nostalgic of my time spent working with a very defensive and paranoid cat~ She was basically a croc monitor in feline form lol. Once she stopped trying to murder everything to ever come within reach, she was a truly wonderful companion, and now I find myself so drawn to reptiles precisely because they remind me so much of her and what an amazing experience it was working with her. These videos really are invaluable!
I’m
A total cat lover too!!!! A cat freak! K
My beardie chases my cat! The look on my cats face the day Harry climbed up the stairs after him was priceless lol. Gizzi the cat often sits in front of one of my Leo's viv and watches him. Just like a human watching tv 🙂
I was adopted by a cat like that. She was abused I think and abandoned and would hiss if you moved too fast but for some reason she liked me even though I’m not even a cat person. Finally I gave in. I named her Pazza (Italian for crazy) and when I pet her she purred like a lawnmower.
Kevin is one of most respected people in the herpetology hobby listening to him is like getting a university lecturer for free there are very few greats that can share the level he is at. Just waiting for the day he visits the uk.
Wow!!!!!!!!! That’s a lot! Thank you. K
I will never own a large monitor, however, these techniques that Kevin is sharing will be used on every new reptile I purchase. Building trust is extremely important to me, as I enjoy handling my snakes and geckos. Thank you so much for your wonderful videos! I adore you Kevin, please more socialization videos!
Thanks for sharing! K
I love socialization videos, just for the feels. The medical videos really feed the information-hungry side of my brain. And the way your new little friend crawled up Kevin’s back and peeked over his shoulder gave me the idea that he was trusting Kevin to protect/hide him from the big scary eyeball/camera. You all do excellent work! Keep it up!
Much appreciated! K
Kevin your techniques are truly amazing and work well (I have a Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink that was practically scared of his shadow, but now he is often hanging out on a branch basking and even lets me pet him a little bit. It's a work in progress but each episode I learn a little more) but I have to say that there will never be anyone that will ever be as good at what you do as you do. You have an instinctual level of understanding, care, and love for these little guys that most people will never be able to copy. For reference, when you mentioned that you weren't apprehensive or nervous at all while handling Spot (he needed a temporary name) I realized that in all the videos of you teaching "threads of trust" I never understood the biggest lesson, you don't move slowly and carefully to avoid being bit but rather to avoid scaring your new friend... And I'm so glad I realized this because I've been petrified of my Tailless Whip Scorpion ever since I got him, but now realizing that he's just a scared little dude that doesn't want to hurt me I'm ready to attempt building threads of trust with him until I might eventually be able to hold him 😱
What a beautiful animal. Watching how you interact with them is so relaxing, so I know the animals feel calm around you.
I enjoy all of your videos, but it’s such a shame that TH-cam won’t let you have any new medical videos up, because I would imagine a lot of reptile keepers value your advice & instructions on how to deal with certain conditions/injuries etc.
I hope you Kevin & the rest of the Nerd team are having a great weekend.
We appreciate your words! K
I could happily sit and watch you socialising these beautiful creatures, all day, every day!! I've developed a deep love for monitors, after watching your videos and other reptile keepers interacting with them.
This might be my favorite NERD video ever. Kevin’s threads of trusts and modes make so much sense. This can help everyone have better relationship with their pets. So thankful for Kevin. Oh, and Donny. 😆💜☮️
Thank you very much. K
I LOVE these socialization videos. Mostly really seeing your rationale and you interacting.
Glad you like them! K
Kevin once again you proved yourself to be a legend and the monitor whisperer! Love these videos of your interactions with the animal and just seeing the change! I would love seeing more videos like this. I havent seen anyone else able to do the things you can eith these animals. Much love from Delaware!
Very kind, thank you! K
I work a lot with animal fostering and wildlife rehabilitation for animals that can’t ever be released into the wild, and keep reptiles. I can’t even begin to express how much your teaching on behaviors and threads of trust has helped me and in turn helped other people I’ve either talked to about it myself or referred to your videos (because you explain it so much better than I do 😅)
So grateful for the time and effort you put into education and animal welfare. 👏🏻
I love this! Thank uuu ! K
I love watching kevin interact and socialize animals....he really knows how to treat and get them out of defense mode , get their trust ❤❤❤❤
The threads of trust methods have helped me a ton with both boas, pythons and even Leopard Geckos. Fear seems to easily ruin things, on the part of the human lol. Ive experienced that myself even. I had a boa that was a chainsaw, open mouth hissing if she even saw me, striking, fleeing etc. Now after however long using your methods, she climbs right out to say hello (unless shes in shed or something) i can pick her up, even pet her under the chin, no hissing nothing. The methods work, that fear just has to not cloud things (which admittedly is easier to say with a boa and not a flippin terrified Croc Monitor lol)
Sometimes I feel like I need Kevin to help me with my own socialization skills with other people 😂😂😂
As I always say, it truly is a pleasure to listen to you teach us the reasons why behind what you do and why it works. Then we get to see it.
Hope you all have a great weekend!!! 🙏🏻💜
I appreciate those words. K
True. Children aren't raised with functional social skills anymore & the insanity of lockdowns & constant "the world's on FIRE & everything is laterally HITLER!" messaging on media & fearmongering is crippling people. It's awful.
Agree, I would love Kevin socialization help in my life, too! :)
Just have to say I've never owned a reptile of any sort but I've done Schutzhund and dog show training for 20 yrs and I totally appreciate your calm and reading the animal! I totally get it and do it as well! I love how you flow with them! Subtle signs for the inexperienced is something everyone needs to learn! Love your handling videos! ❤❤❤
That is awesome! Yes!!!!! I like to talk about the glow, I totally get into that!!!! Thank you !!! K
You are such a pro, love seeing your technique and how being calm and confident can get an animal to start trusting
Love these behavior videos! I worked in vet med for 30+ years and at the end of my career I was certified Fear Free Elite. Which focused on the mind as well as the medical. I absolutely love your approach to the mind! I have my dream now of owning reptiles and you have been such a tremendous asset in my education. Thank you! And Utube needs to grow a pair and let you post your medical vids. 😊
Appreciate your words! Thank you. K
The medical videos are extremely useful. There are no exotic veterinarians in my area . When two of my Graybanded Kingsnakes retained a couple of eggs it was up to me to resolve the issue. Fortunately I was able to find a TH-cam video on how to insert a needle and drain the retained eggs. This was 3 years ago and both snakes are healthy and doing very well. Had it not been for the videos that I watched I wouldn't have attempted the procedure. I also make it a point to handle / socialize all of my animals as it makes it less stressful for all concerned when it comes cleaning time. I get to know and recognize each unique personality of all my reptiles.
Bless you Kevin and his team, keep doing what you’re doing, in calling out the FWC to help support responsible owners and keep so many reptiles safe. You really are the reptile whisperer 🙌🏻 seeing that croc monitor calm down in your presence was amazing. 🤗
Very kind! Thank you. K
Awesome video fellas ! Kevin has skill , making a Sketchy Croc monitor look basically tame as a dog . He understands these animals wonderfully ! God bless , and peace .
You are kind. K
What a gorgeous animal. Thank you for taking it in. With you handling him, he looks so very docile 😮😮
I think it amazing how you interact with and are able to see the subtle changes in the demeanour of the reptiles and interact with them accordingly so that no trust is lost and every interaction becomes positive,, Your Awesome Kevin!!
Much appreciated. K
So happy to see this video this morning! Thank you Kevin! I have been working 14 hour night shifts doing industrial programming far away from home at a cement plant in a small city in Honduras. I'm missing my animals. Im missing home, but this makes it all better.
From all over we share the same animal love! K
I don't have any reptiles currently. But your videos are very educational and informative.
Glad you like them! K
I thought I would be bored right away, then I thought you were going to get bit which kept my attention, but then I was truly mesmerized by how you and the Monitor interacted with each other, and was amazed at your ability to not react, risking getting bit vs. trust that he was beginning to feel comfortable with you. The way you spoke the entire time was calm, and your understanding of this maligned boy is proof that animals aren't really that much different than us. Great video!!
3:08 Kevin has balls of steel. Sitting on my couch, watching on the computer, I jumped at least 5 inches into the air. I don't know how he didn't react even a little bit. Didn't even flinch. 😲
Maybe I’m just stupid!!!! Ha! K
@@NewEnglandReptile 😆
Or you've just done it enough, you're able to be calm. I would've had to change my pants after that.
I did too, even the second time I watched it to get the time stamp 😂
@@melissaf.5898 🤣Same!! I said, dammit! It got me again!
Yes, please more socialization videos! My family enjoys them so much. I LOVE the medical ones too, but I know YT sucks for that. Thank you for all you and your team do!❤
Kevin and Donny you both have done an amazing job spreading awareness about the reptile community. Please keep it up. Your videos are so informative and I personally would love to see more socializations and interactions with all the various animals you have. It would be nice to see all of your employees too interact because it gives a unique perspective at all levels too! Keep up the great work!!!
Thank you! Will do! K
Love how you treat all the animals with respect and love
Your videos have and continue to help me become the reptile custodian my snakes deserve. Educational and entertaining. Thank you so very much
Great to hear! K
i am amazed by how incredible you are when handling an animal, Truly an inspiration for all of us. Keep up the good work!
Wow, thank you! K
Same, I was so amazed that the monitor didn't at all get agressive and let him even touch. You have to be very calm and confident and know what you're doing, which he does.
Going slow and under the chin helps alot with many reptiles. That is how i pick up my Tokays and rarely get tagged. Go in slow, if they open their mouth or bark they usually stand up and arch their body so then you can slowly get your hand underneath where they cant bite you. As soon as you scoop them up their mindset changes into think mode and work from there. Slow, chill movements and nothings sacred. Hard not to jump at the barks sometimes but thats part of the fun.
Monitors are my favorite and I love watching Kevin interact with them. Such a genius.
Kind words. K
@@NewEnglandReptile I can honestly say that the socialization videos are my favorite and would love to continue to see more.
I can't even explain the emotions I feel watching Kevin work with these animals. I am in tears writing this comment! Kevin is a hero to the reptile world. Saving lives and helping animals to live less stressful, more peaceful lives! ❤❤
Kevin i love watching your videos where someone gives you an animal and says its too mean and bites. Then very shortly you show them how it's done. Love It Kevin youre the best bar none. Thank you for everything you do to ensure all animals are treated with respect and care.
The key to success here, seems to me, to be coaxing and manipulating the animal out of its instinctive hardwired reactive behavior patterns and and in turn manipulating it into using its intellectual problem solving capacities to enable in it critical awareness of its surroundings, so it can rationally conclude there is no imminent threat present. Easier said than done lol, but entirely possible with an individual of a species possessing this degree of mental faculty. I believe it's a talent some people have but most do not, but it's a display of intellectual empathy, it seems to me, to a large degree, which is entirely teachable. Brilliant work and very altruistic of Kevin to share this knowledge and instruction with the world. He's so much better than old so called animal whisperers from cable TV. Plus the content isn't all frufru esoteric bs with interminable and obnoxious commercial breaks. Tysm, guys.
Love watching the master at work 🐍🦎
I love that comment! K
This is a going to be a huge video for Kevin, again cemented his place amongst the legends.
Haaa haaaaaaa. Well we can dream, right?
Just love watchingyou gain the trust of a new animal. The way you do it is so amazing. Bless for you for being the compapssionate educator you are. Thanks for being you!!
You are so kind! K
@@NewEnglandReptile Thank you for saying that. I do hope to see more husbandry videos.
I always forget how small all of these monitors(and often snakes) are in person vs. on video.
This is super cool. I wish I was responsible and dedicated enough to own a croc monitor(or any large monitor really.)
Personally I greatly appreciate video like this one, where you interact with a reptile in a more relaxed manner. :)
Glad you enjoyed it! K
More more more! If it’s any consolation I’ve never owned a reptile, don’t think I’ve even ever touched a snake. Not scare of them just haven’t had an opportunity to interact. I look forward to your videos, so you’ve definitely hit an audience that finds all this content new and amazing. Thanx for sharing your passion with us.
That is quite interesting!!!! Hard for me to fully appreciate that but I like to know that! K
@@NewEnglandReptile Have you given any thought to contacting networks like Animal Planet, Discovery, etc? Not a reality show, an educational program with your kind of specialized knowledge and humor, Hell I’d watch it ;) The star of the show has to be Snarfles and the Dr. Lol Anyway just a thought.
Thanks for sharing these amazing tips and tricks. It was so cool to see the animal get more comfortable with Kevin. You guys are the best!
What a great video! I learn so much watching Kevin, his methods & ethics. Personally, I find both the medical & socialisation videos to be equally interesting & I hope Kevin knows that he is a great teacher.
I love love love to
Hear this!!!! Thank you ! K
I love both your socialization videos and your medical videos. As someone who's been very attuned to my horse's body language for years and the many times it's saved me in dangerous situations and how I've been able to develop a wonderful relationship with my boy I am trying to soak up as much information as you can give me for the reptiles I want to get next year. And as someone whose owned many different animals over the years the medical videos are incredibly valuable information. Thank you for all your work in putting them out there for us all to see and learn from.❤
Thank you ! K
I love these socialization videos. I have a Jackson’s chameleon who is terrified of me and I’ve had him for over two years ! I’ve tried to get him used to me but nothing has worked.
This is such a fantastic video. I am a huge believer in how crucial it is to know the psychology of the animal and, equally, how crucial patience is...patience, patience, patience. What a fabulous animal and look how much you have accomplished with him already. It is so heartwarming. I agree with your take on target feeding. I personally want an animal to react to me, not a ball. Yes, I would love to see more socialization videos. I'm a retired vet surgical tech. I think people don't like seeing anything that might remotely 'hurt' an animal or see blood, physical procedures, etc. A lot of people are very soft-hearted and can't stand to see anything being done. As you can imagine, I have seen more than my fair share of and participated in many intense procedures, but I do understand their angst. HI had to take my Horsefield tortoise in for a beak trim and was incapable of watching much to the hilarity of the vet and tech...how embarrassing!!! So I get it. You mentally have to take the next step and realize what is begin done is only for the good of the animal. I flunk that step when it comes to my own animals!
Videos on socializing/learning to read the specific ways different animals send out information are definitely what I personally like to see. Plus the more people that learn that animals are a lot more complex/communicative than we often first think, the more people can approach animals in ways that end up as an overall positive thing. Personally I've found trying to communicate with animals on their level and trying to know what wavelength they're on to be really rewarding. Good way to learn about yourself and other people too
I really enjoy the animal behavior videos, in-fact your methods have really been great for the snakes and things I have rescued from people that thought they were aggressive, I haven’t been bitten for a very long time and really have outstanding relationships with all my animals because of the threads of trust method you teach so thank you and I can’t wait to see more!
I
Love to hear this!!!!!!!! Thank you! K
Still the scariest lizard in the pet trade- salute to the brave owners.
and the most beautifulllll
The way he was looking over your shoulder at the end 😂
Right? He was like, “Didn’t ya know we’re best buds?!?” 😂😂😂
Kevin I love to watch you interact with your reptiles. I’m 78 and I’ve just in the last two years wished I could have learned from you when I was younger so I wouldn’t have been afraid of snakes my whole life. Thank you for showing me you just have to learn about the scary things in life to not be afraid of them. You’re great! Thank you.
Kevin, I absolutely love your educational socialising videos!! As a veterinary nurse I'm used to working with many different types of animals. However, I've never had a chance to work with reptiles, apart from my own corn snakes, so watching your videos on socialising has taught me such a lot.
I watch many reptile channels on YT, but none are as educational as you, truly.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make these awesome videos, and thank you also for caring for these wonderful creatures. I absolutely love you! You're fantastic. 👍🏻
Much love, from a huge fan, Wales, United Kingdom
Hey man stay positive we, the people need you Please keep sharing ALL your knowledge on these excellent videos Your gift is my joy
I appreciate that! K
Awesome! Beautiful croc monitor and great work handling and keeping it calm! I’d love to see more of this especially from the beginning, I.e. a wild caught coming in or a particularly cantankerous individual, even through multiple videos. Thanks for doing these!
You treat these animals with love and care and see things from their perspective, how we all should aspire to. Great work !
You are so kind. K
Kevin, this was incredible to watch. I have great respect for Croc Monitors and the major damage they can inflict. Watching you read this one was amazing and I found that I was recognizing its different modes myself (due to your videos and Crutchfield’s). What an awesome Croc Monitor and thank you for passing along your knowledge. 🦎❤️🦎 I trained Dobermans for years. You are absolutely correct!
Glad you enjoyed it! K
An idea for a video would be a check in on some of the NERD reptiles we have come to know and love that are still around (I know some were quite old like Wretched and Papa). It would be great to see Dozer&Tonka, Wally, Bubba, Jazmine, Thor, Lorelei, and of course Snarfles (and anyone else) again!
Not a bad idea!!!! K
I appreciate the socialization videos because the information is relevant to all kinds of animals and not just reptiles. The "modes of behavior" point that Kevin talks about is important because an animal does NOT need "intelligence" for its behavior to be modified - it needs conditioning to rewire its brain so it doesn't associate the presence of the human with fear. With many animals, one of the most important things is to find a food that will allow you to instantly reward behaviors, so you can work with the animal purposefully and make progress. With reptiles, the feeding dynamic is so different that it doesn't always lend itself to that type of conditioning. The "reward" for the animal is that it can relax and not expend energy being defensive or fleeing. Our own behavior can be modified the same way, unconsciously, with zero intelligence involved.
I think Kevin would really like this book: "Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training - Volume I: Adaptation and Learning." (not all three volumes) It's expensive and academic, but not just useful for dogs. I have no dogs but have learned more about animal neurology and learning from this book than from any other reference. I can't recommend it highly enough and know he would love reading it. Here is a quote relevant to this video: "The safety-relaxation theory suggests that dogs [or other animals] experience stimuli associated with relief from aversive stimulation [stress] as though they were positive reinforcers...in addition to establishing various conditioned associations with rewards [e.g., food], 'praise' represents a safety signal of some importance and usefulness...because praise consistently 'predicts' the absence of aversive stimulation, it gradually becomes highly desirable in itself and may be treated as a kind of conditioned positive reinforcer." The "praise" in this situation with a croc monitor, is Kevin using his voice and touch to interact with the animal in a manner that doesn't cause it to react defensively or fearfully - the animal can then associate the sights, sounds, smell, and touch of Kevin with non-reactive or "thinking" modes of behavior rather than with feeding or fleeing behaviors. Sorry this is so dense.
I love these socialization videos! Definitely like to see more!
Kevin watching you interact with these animals are amazing. I have been working with reptiles for years and still learn something new from you with every video up put out. Thank you so much for both your handling videos and medical videos.
Love this! K
NERD is quite the collective of knowledge. Thanks Kevin for your dedication.
My pleasure! K
Kevin, great point about the colors! I work with birds of prey and I’ve been saying this for years! Red triggers raptors and even fingernail color will get you tagged.
Yes please, more handling videos! You’ve helped me so much with my lizards and snakes. Thank you!
Well said! K
What I absolutely adore about this channel, and Kevin, is how calm, easily understandable, and knowledgeable he is. Whenever he talks, he demonstrates, and still obviously shows great respect and love for these animals. He never comes off as smug, and the "I know better". Even though he most definietly does. I'd reckon even the most stubborn, boar-headed people would listen to him. Huge respect, and many, many thanks for the knowledge you share. The icing on the cake is that he does it for free. This man (and his team) is a gem.
it’s so important to recognize how reptile brains work.. they seem like much more understandable creatures then! to respect; not fear. 💗
thank you for another awesome video! and yay for that lil monitor c’: I’m glad it’s getting taken care of. 💕
What gorgeous markings it has and at 1 point I thought it was going to fall asleep keep up the good work Kevin
Amazing Kevin. It’s always great watching someone who’s really great at what they do.
I enjoy your videos and always learn useful information that goes beyond animal interactions. Thank you for teaching kindness above all.
I always learn something from Kevin’s videos. They present content in an interesting and engaging way, always with great photography from Donnie. Many thanks to both of you. Love, hugs, and kisses from Texas. (We are not all morons down here, I promise.)
Haaaaa haaaaaaaa. Love it! K
THESE are the videos I want to see! It's very rare they just accept crawling into your hands. They run, they jump, they hiss, they whip. Thank you NERD and please keep making socialization videos like this for the monitors that aren't so friendly! You're the GOAT
Watching Kevin with these animals is just amazing and humbling. Great work guys! Thank you too Donnie.
I absolutely love your understanding of animals. I've met or seen too many people who think animals are their "property" or assume that an animal will automatically do what they want when they want it. They refuse to understand that it's a living being with it's own thoughts, concerns, and needs. While they may not have as complex of thought patterns as other animals at the root of it most animals appreciate patience, love, and respect. It's incredibly refreshing to see this being understood and shown publicly to thousands of viewers!
This never gets old. I wish you had time to author more books. I get a lot of sos calls from Reptile keepers in our community. The first thing I talk about are the threads of trust, which segues right into recommending they watch the whole NERD library on TH-cam. (P.S. Can you really blame him for keeping an eye on Donnie tho? 🤣😂🤣😂)
This is one of the most impressive and interesting videos I’ve seen you make!!!
Dam it being shut down because of your medical videos sucks because I was learning for you Kevin. Hope the next time goes better and it’s crazy what fwc has been doing
It’s amazing to watch Kevin work with these animals. Puts a lot of trust in the animals to act similarly to others he has encountered. Of course, since he’s trying real hard to not be threatening…they have to notice this.
They do have intelligence and that’s what Kevin keys on. Getting them to think before they act. The old “action vs. reaction” method that many of us were taught as kids.
I know that Kenan always praises Tom Crutchfield on his work with Croc Monitors, you did a fine job with this animal. Really great video.
What an amazing video on building trust!
Thank you Kevin!
I’ve used versions of these methods on my Snapping Turtles with tremendous results.The pupil dilation is very important to watch in them as well
I love snapping turtles! K
I personally love this type of video, my actual favorite! I want to be able to help folks better when they have defensive animals, I'm great with dogs but I love reptiles more!
I can tell the animal calms you down too.. I love your videos. They have helped me with my beardie so much. Ive built a lot of threads if trust with her and she actually came to me today when she came out of her enclosure. She is already chill so the training just made her even cooler
This was fascinating to watch. Thanks for sharing & the indepth explanation. Watching you calm him down and show respect for his space was amazing. He really responded so positively. Loved this! 🦎
As someone who works with and is often given "problem" animals like horses, zebra, donkeys, and reptiles, I love your approach. Your "threads of trust" really encompass working with a multitude of species. I am here for that!
This is the first time I've seen this channel but it's certainly not my last. I like the confidence of the presenter and the obvious kindness shown to the beautiful croc monitor.
Love your socialization videos!!
Bad ass! Kevin teaching the things you are can save so many animals from bad experiences to good ones! I am sure you see this over and over wher people do not understand what they are getting into when they buy one of these awesome lizards. This information is Gold Thank You sir!
Thank you! K
Your professionalism is so evident because even through my computer screen with no risk of being bitten I flinched when the monitor flinched lol.
One of the best monitor videos ever Kevin that way you are you No Flinch not scared one bit and you have the touch We do the same techniques Taught by you to us This was so good !!!!!!!!!
Love it!!! Thank you. K
Great work. I hope we can see the next session. Cheers !
I just started watching commercials aren’t even over yet but I want to say I’m glad to see you back on the screen. Keep the videos coming please
Will “try”! Donny is finally letting me do more of these videos without telling me how boring I am. K
😂😂😂
I wondered why I haven't been seeing many videos and I miss them I love you guys thank you ❤😊
Thank you so much. I've learned so much watching you.
My favorite video from nerd ever ! we need more socialization tips and tricks pls !!
That’s the plan! K
Kevin, you are a gift sent from God for all animals when it comes to knowledge. I luv ur videos.
Wow, thank you! K
Absolutely beautiful animal. Love their bearded dragon type feet that are huge. Kevin you are right not to react, worry or have anxiety while interacting with the croc monitor because I was all those things for you!!! Omg I was on pins and needles about to have a coronary while watching you handle the animal. I kept thinking CHOMP CHOMP the entire time. So relieved nothing happened!