Alan Francis

[Hollis_Steed]

Excuse my lack of knowledge but I see alot of references to Alan Francis. Can someone tell me what is his claim to fame? He is obviously a VIP in the world of Garters. I went to his website but I can't seem to find out much about him personally. Is he a breeder? A biologist? A Professor? It seems like he is treated as the "end all" when discussing care and breeding etc...
Just trying to get to know "who's who" and "what's what"
Thanks,:)

[drache]

*Garter Snake Home Page - Alan Francis (http://www.gartersnake.co.uk/)

[adamanteus]

He's a long term, very experienced Garter keeper and breeder.

[infernalis]

He's the whole reason I had to buy my first ever flame.

I saw his pictures and just had to have one....

[Spankenstyne]

I wouldn't consider any one person the "end all". It's about taking people's past experiences as stepping stones in learning about these snakes and their behaviours, needs, and care. Alan Francis is a great resource but it's up to people to use the information and experiences passed along to add to their own base of knowledge and to keep learning.

[adamanteus]

Absolutely! Ditto everything Chris said.

[Hollis_Steed]

I saw on one website he was "Dr. Alan Francis". That's why I wondered if maybe he was a PhD or something and his focus was somehow on Garters.

[adamanteus]

He is a medical doctor.

[Spankenstyne]

There are lots of great resources for info on these guys, many members of this very forum in fact. Some are quite well known for working with garters like the greatly respected Scott Felzer.
Up here in Canada we're fortunate to have a few respected longtime keepers who unfortunately keep a very low profile in the online world.

[guidofatherof5]

Up here in Canada we're fortunate to have a few respected longtime keepers who unfortunately keep a very low profile in the online world.

It's a shame they don't share their knowledge and experiences.
I know that some are not comfortable doing that and I understand.:)