NORFOLK, Neb. -- Real Reptiles, a traveling educational program, brings fascinating reptiles to libraries, schools, and events across Nebraska and neighboring states throughout the summer. 

This week, students at Norfolk Catholic Elementary had the unique opportunity to not only see these incredible creatures up close but also touch one, making for an unforgettable experience.

“Our goal is to bring these unique animals to people and places where, you know, maybe they haven't seen them before or it's maybe a little bit more of a unique creature that's often only ever seen at a zoo, or maybe even in the wild,” said Will Abler, Real Reptiles Owner & Operator.

Students in attendance were given the opportunity to see a large albino Burmese python, Steve the juvenile alligator, Skyler the Macaw (bird). Those were some of the favorites of the day but they also brought along other animal ambassadors, like a Bearded Dragon, and a few smaller snakes.

To acquire these reptiles, they are brought in through rescue.

“You know, often we'll get animals in with great health,” said Abler. “You know, if people pay close attention to some of our animals, you may notice that things like a broken tail, you know, there was an injury at one point or there's something going on there. We will take them to a veterinarian, get them the care that they need if it's necessary.”

“From afar, reptiles can look dangerous on TV but captive animals like these are harmless, if you are willing to give them a chance,” Abler said. “Some people are super ecstatic and super excited but, oftentimes by the end of the program, we can get, you know, some of these people that are either terrified or just very afraid of the animal to even come up and just do a real quick touch."