Today we’d like to introduce you to David Utrera.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My name is David Utrera (“Tiki”) and I own a business that deals with the sale and breeding of reptiles, more specifically the geckos of New Caledonia. Although we do sell basically all kinds of reptiles our niche market is with the Crested and Gargoyle Geckos.
These small to medium-sized lizards are very docile by nature and extremely easy to keep so they make a great pet for someone that is not looking for the responsibilities that come with owning a dog or a cat. On top of their ease of care and willingness to be handled, these geckos come in a wide spectrum of colors and patterns. My love for animals and more specifically reptiles is deep-rooted in the obsession I had as a kid with dinosaurs.
All my life I knew that I wanted to work with animals but when people suggested being a veterinarian it would always turn me off, I couldn’t stomach having to see animals die on a daily basis. Fast forward a couple of years and I went to my first reptile expo where someone let me hold a crested gecko. I could not believe how soft and prehistoric this lizard was! I went home and researched how to keep these animals and a couple months later I was given my first crested gecko!
Initially, I had no idea someone could make a living from selling reptiles let alone sustain a family. When I started, it was just a hobby but as I got to know more people in the industry I quickly learned that these people were not only living well off but they were also living my dream! After I knew that it was possible to make a living by breeding and selling reptiles, I set my focus on trying to accomplish that childhood dream and I haven’t looked back ever since.
Every day I am thankful that I get to work doing something I love and I am forever grateful to all my family, friends and customers that have helped me get to where I am today. I still have a long way to go but I am enjoying the process of building this business that I have always dreamed about.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, I don’t think any business is ever built on a “smooth road”. There are always going to have struggled, especially when working with animals because sometimes they can get sick or die. The amount of work that goes into it is also challenging at times especially when it comes to the maintenance of hundreds of animals on top of the sales, social media, feeding, etc.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about TikisGeckos – what should we know?
We focus on trying to produce the healthiest and most beautiful lizards possible. The goal when it comes to reptile breeding is to refine the colors and patterns the best way we can by breeding specimens with specific genetic “mutations’ that make the colors pop out more.
The most common example of one of these genetic mutations is albinism. Other color patterns or “morphs” can also be created through selective breeding of these animals. In other words, we pair up two specimens that have the desired look and handpick the best offspring to hold back for breeding.
I think what really sets us apart is our relationship with our customers. There are NO other breeders that are as close to their customers as we are. We continuously communicate with them on an individual basis through social media, phone and email. We are ALWAYS available for them if they have any questions regarding their animals.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I owe my success to the infinite support I receive from my family and friends. My parents allowed me to start this business in the garage of their house when I was in high school and to this day they are there for anything I need them for. I cannot explain how much they have done for me and I am truly lucky to have them.
Aside from my parents, The next person who has literally helped me build this business is one of my best friends who I consider a brother, Manuel Durand. This kid is someone who has a heart of gold and has helped me without expecting a dime back when we started.
Other than that I also want to give credit to every single person who has ever supported me on the way. All of my family, friends and of course the customers that allow me to do what I do for a living.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tikisgeckos.com
- Phone: 7543689110
- Email: tikisgeckos@live.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tikisgeckos/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TikisGeckos/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/tikisgeckos
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/user/TikisGeckos
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