What we believe
At Dino Buddies, we believe in giving back—to the animals, to the Earth, and to the communities we serve. We’re always working behind the scenes to improve care, learn from experts, and protect the wild places we love. It’s not just about putting on a great show—it’s about making a real difference, one tiny step (or giant dino stomp) at a time.
Take a look at what we’ve been up to!
🐢 Habitat Upgrades for Our Animal Ambassadors
Crested Gecko Habitat Upgrades
Our crested geckos are living their best lives thanks to a major habitat upgrade led by our Director of Animal Excellence, Stephanie Heidorn.
All 10 geckos now enjoy beautifully redesigned enclosures featuring automated misting systems, UVB lighting, basking zones, and a naturalistic layout with live plants for enrichment and humidity control. These upgrades provide not only more space but a slice of the geckos’ native environment—encouraging natural behaviors like climbing, hiding, and hunting.
Big thanks to Stephanie for seeing this project through from start to finish!
Thinking about getting a pet reptile? 🦎 Join our Responsible Reptile Ownership class to learn the basics and meet some of our scaly friends up close!
At Dino Buddies, conservation doesn’t just happen in the classroom—it begins in the field, with muddy boots and curious minds. Our ongoing herpetological survey at Gorman Heritage Farm is led by our Director of Outdoor Education and Research, Kassandra Whittington, and focuses on documenting Ohio’s native reptiles and amphibians—snakes, frogs, turtles, and salamanders—all vital indicators of a healthy ecosystem.
But this project is about more than data. In partnership with Gorman, we’ve created an internship program for their summer camp counselors, offering young educators the chance to gain real-world experience in wildlife surveying and hands-on research. Together, we’re helping them build the confidence and skills to become thoughtful stewards of the natural world.
We may not have all the answers today—but we’re not afraid to get our hands dirty finding them. Because every creature recorded, every footprint noticed, brings us one step closer to understanding—and protecting—the wild spaces we call home.
🌿 Herpetological Survey at Gorman Heritage Farm
Interested in reptiles and amphibians? 🐍🦎
Join our Wildlife Learning Labs for hands-on experiences, up-close encounters, and fun activities that bring the world of herps to life for all ages!
