Robyn Wheeler

Tell us about The Creature Teacher.
I started The Creature Teacher in 1996 as a unique way to expose children to exotic animals. I give educational and interactive presentations to children at schools, churches, libraries and birthday parties. I keep all of the animals indoors. This way I can control the temperature and I don’t have to worry about outdoor elements. One room in the house is dedicated to the critters, and a few animals are housed in my office, the hallway and in the family room.

What’s your favorite animal?
The chinchilla is always a favorite because it’s so soft and takes a bath in dust, which is quite funny to watch. The hairless guinea pig is also one of my favorites because it’s so strange looking, and very few children or adults are able to guess what it actually is. My favorite reptiles are the veiled chameleon and the bearded dragon because they’re such unique looking lizards.

How do people react to your animals?
Reaction is always unpredictable. Some kids shy away from the snake and say, “I’m not touching that thing!” After they see their friends touch it, they decide to be brave and try it themselves. Oftentimes, it’s not the kids that react to certain animals, but the adults. One lady told me she would pass out if she saw my frog. She asked if I could please tell her when it was going to be shown so she could leave the room. The African bullfrog gets the best reactions. He weighs well over one pound, and surprising gasps fill the room when folks first see him.

What’s the strangest experience you’ve had with your creatures?
I accidentally left a small gap in the lid of the tarantula enclosure, and the spider escaped. It was loose in my house for four days. I got up in the middle of the night and walked around the house with a flashlight trying to find the spider. I combed through every room, closet, cupboard and under beds trying to locate the lost arachnid. I finally found him inside my snake’s enclosure. They were both in great condition so I guess they found a way to peacefully coexist for four days.

How do you market your business?
I’ve found that the best way to market this type of business is through parenting magazines. I also attend library showcases once a year so I can speak directly with children’s librarians about my services. Occasionally, I mail postcards to schools, churches and daycares. I also have specially made pencils that I give to children at birthday parties. The pencils have drawings of reptiles on them as well as my business name and phone number. They’re something the kids can use and usually last years. They’re great advertising.