About The Reptile Den
At The Reptile Den, we believe the best way to inspire a love for wildlife is through connection. When people get the chance to see, touch, and experience animals up close, it creates lasting memories and a genuine appreciation for the natural world. Our mission is simple: “Touch the Heart to Teach the Mind.”
Our live reptile and bug demonstrations bring fascinating creatures from around the world right to you. Whether it’s a school, party, or community event, our shows are designed to be fun, exciting, and easy to understand for audiences of all ages. We don’t focus on complicated scientific terms - instead, we share incredible stories about each animal, making learning both engaging and accessible.
By sparking curiosity and fostering empathy, we aim to inspire a lifelong love for wildlife and conservation. Whether you’re meeting a friendly python, exploring the world of insects, or learning about the important role these animals play in nature, The Reptile Den makes every encounter unforgettable.
Ali Baghdadi is a Chicagoland-based exotic animal expert and the founder of The Reptile Den, Illinois’ largest traveling wildlife education program. Performing hundreds of live events each year, he has become a recognized presence across schools, libraries, park districts, and community events throughout the region.
Inspired by wildlife figures like Jack Hanna, Jim Fowler, and Steve Irwin, Ali turned a lifelong passion for animals into a full-time career focused on education, conservation, and public engagement. His work centers on helping people better understand and respect often-misunderstood species, while highlighting the important role they play in ecosystems around the world.
Through The Reptile Den, Ali works with a variety of rescued and ambassador animals, using them to promote responsible ownership, habitat awareness, and conservation-minded thinking. By creating direct, hands-on experiences, he aims to turn curiosity into respect and respect into long-term care for wildlife and the environments they depend on.
In addition to his work in the field, Ali serves as President of the Lincoln Herpetological Society, where he is helping build a growing community centered around education, conservation, and the advancement of herpetoculture.
Ali has made multiple appearances on local television and continues to expand his presence through media, partnerships, and large-scale public events. His mission is simple: to make wildlife more understood, more respected, and ultimately, more protected.
Mitzy Chavez loves creating unforgettable moments for kids and families. For her, it’s about more than just showing reptiles - it’s about helping kids build core memories. Whether it’s the first time they touch a snake, discover tarantulas aren’t so scary, or see something completely new, Mitzy’s goal is to make every experience magical and meaningful.
