At Earl May Nursery and Garden Center, a large part of the store's income comes from their pet department which sells traditional as well as exotic pets, according to Matt Colburn, a manager trainee. Sales of exotic pets have increased within the last five years at Earl May, said Colburn. There are as many different types of people interested in exotic pets as there are different types of these pets. We have many men and women, young and old, interested in lizards, snakes, anything. Reptiles are tolerant, but not generally affectionate creatures, said Metcalf.
Large snakes eat an adult rabbit once a week.
Customers not only buy, but also drop off exotic animals at local pet shops. Colburn says he receives fish that have outgrown the owners' tanks. The Ark coordinates with the Ames Animal Shelter to find new homes for exotic pets. Ames Pet Hospital also deals with exotic pets. About half of the owners who bring in these pets are students, said Dr. Kathy Stohlmeyer, veterinarian for Ames Pet Hospital.