Jasmine, 16, has a way with animals, from fur and feathers to scales and shells.
She said she leaned more towards the uncommon pets because of just that — they were unique.
“I think they’re really cool, and more interesting. Unique,” Jasmine said.
But, as one would expect, unusual pets lead to unusual challenges.
“Feeding can be pretty gross with all the bugs and dead mice, even though they think it’s delicious,” she said.
In her home, she has a python, two frogs, two lizards, a turtle, a hermit crab, two dogs and a cat, all of which she loves and cares for.
However, the three scaly mates recently had a renovation to their dens, now residing in a three-tier home handmade by Jasmine’s dad.
“I had a makeshift three-layer home, but I like this one a lot more, it looks a lot cleaner and just fits better,” she said.
Jasmine has collected her pets from a variety of places, including adopting one from a local school.
Her parents are supportive of her passion for animals, allowing her to take in more pets and care for each one.
Despite what one might think, all of Jasmine’s pets have unique personalities, and she learns more about them every day.
“Of course they’re all different, for example Rory is very temperamental, and Squirt gets hangry, but Ziggy is very chill,” Jasmine said.
News photographer Rechelle Zammit went to say hi to Jasmine’s pets. Here’s what she captured.
Gallery below:
Sneaky: Ten-year-old children's python Rory takes a cheeky peak at the camera.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Hello there: Rory bends as he tries to reach up and say hi.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Got it: Five-year-old bearded dragon Spike stretches to grab a snack.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Poised and ready: Spike is secretly a professional model, always ready for a close-up.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Peek-a-boo: Northern blue tongue Lizard Ziggy says hi to the camera.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Having a good look: Ziggy is so ready for a good feed.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Best mates: Frogs Frankie and Grace always love a good hangout together.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Look at me: Grace is not one to shy away from attention.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Ain’t no troubles here: Squirt the turtle is living the high life in his tank.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Greetings: Squirt seems to smile whenever people come to say hi.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit