ALPENA — People who have an interest in exotic pets or want to see some of the unusual animals people raise can do so at the first-ever Northern Michigan Exotic Animal Expo that happens from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 22 at the APlex in Alpena.
Shelly Adamski, owner of the Karma’s a Fish pet store in Alpena, said people can see many different types of exotic animals at the expo and learn more about them.
“We are going to have a lot there,” she said. “We’ll have reptiles from the store and we’re ordering in some other reptiles. There will be birds, small animals like hedgehogs, maybe chinchillas, lizards, and a lot more. Right now, we have about 15 vendors, and there will be education tables set up, too.”
Kate Brasser, who had the idea for the event, said she and her boyfriend moved to Alpena from downstate, where there were exotic animal and reptile expos often. She said hosting an event in the Alpena area, where there aren’t any, seemed logical.
“The closest one to Alpena is more than three hours away, so I thought it would be a good thing for the community, people who do have exotic animals, and those who want to learn more about them to have a place to get together,” Brasser said.
Brasser said she has always had a fancy for reptiles and now runs a type of refuge for alligators and crocodiles.
“I have had a love for reptiles pretty much since I could walk,” she said. “I used to catch turtles and put them in the kiddie pool for a weekend and then let them go, and it escalated from there. Now, it has gotten to the point where I bring in unwanted crocodilians in Michigan.”
Brasser said she currently cares for four American alligators, two crocodiles, and two dwarf caiman crocodiles.
Adamski said exotic animals, especially snakes and lizards, have grown in popularity. She said people like to admire them, but, often, they require more care than a dog or cat.
“Bearded dragons, geckos, corn snakes, ball pythons, everyone seems to be going outside of the norm with the dogs and cats,” she said. “Their care level can be a little demanding, with temperature control, lighting, and diet, but, now, in Alpena, at least, you can get everything you need to care for an exotic animal. We didn’t always have that.”
Adamski said there will be a $5 entry fee, but children 12 and younger can attend for free. Food and drinks will also be available.
Adamski said there will be some venomous snakes at the event, but they will be safely secured and most of the animals are not poisonous.
