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For more than 30 years, Ed Stone has been bringing his live reptile exhibit to fairs and shows around the state. This year, Stone brought his show to the Monroe County Fair - the first of its kind to come to the annual event at Tomah’s Recreation Park.
“Kids really like it,” Monroe County Agricultural Society General Manager Mary Maas said of Stone’s exhibit. “We saw him at a fair (in Menomonie), and he is new to the (Monroe County) Fair this year. I’m not a big fan of snakes and lizards, but the kids think it is great.”
Stone lives in Madison, and he said that he brings his exhibit to an average of a dozen events each summer. The exhibit features over 20 reptiles, including several types of snakes, lizards, tortoises, and turtles. The animals were raised in captivity, and some are allowed to walk loose in the exhibit. Kids and adults alike cannot only look at the unique reptiles, but can also have interaction with them.
“It is very hands-on,” Stone said. “The kids enjoy interacting with (the reptiles). They can hold them, and have their pictures taken.”
Stone also said that education is a major focus of the exhibit. Stone, and Doug Martin, who has been working with Stone’s exhibit for roughly five years, are on hand to answer questions people may have about the critters, and information about the reptiles is provided.
“We have done quite a few county fairs, and the kids are just amazed at the array of animals,” Martin said. “Somebody can ask us a question, and we usually have the answer.”
Stone said that he enjoys bringing the exhibit to events around the state. He puts branches around the roof of the exhibit’s tent, and people can watch snakes hang from them. He said that he never gets tired of the looks on some people’s faces when a snake will drop down and give them a little fright. There is no danger, Stone said, but only fun. The exhibit continues at the fair today, and will continue throughout the duration.
“I think people enjoy the whole experience,” Stone said. “They get to see assorted reptiles from around the world up close, and have contact with them.”
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