'MR ALVAGATOR' is still having an awesome time raising his rare species of reptiles.

As reported last year, Alva's Garry Murphy became the first alligator keeper in the Wee County.

Having been a reptile owner for the past 25-years, he set up a purpose-built enclosure in his back garden to house his collection of snakes, lizards, gators and crocs.

Since November, Garry has acquired himself three new crocodiles as well as a whole host of other ventures.

The reptile enthusiast told the Advertiser that his friends and family support his hobby. He even has strangers message him on Facebook asking to go and see his animals.

He said: "Some people bring their kids."

He described his house as "just like a zoo, but I don't charge", adding: "I like to educate people, people who are curious or perhaps a little scared."

By inviting people over to his home, Garry is able to show them how to handle the animals and encourage them to learn more about his pets.

He breeds Burmese pythons, reticulated pythons, royal pythons and tegus. However, in the future he hopes to start breeding crocodiles and alligators.

His co-founded page, The Snake House, is host to many pictures, posts and reviews from people who have seen or are interested in looking at the animals.

Garry said: "When people arrive I really just let them handle the animals. I tell them the species, where they're from and I talk about my breeding projects."

One thing that Garry is proud of is how his hobby has influenced and helped others: "I have helped many people get over their fears when they see these animals. Everyone leaves happy."

Like all ventures, Garry has also had his fair share of mishaps: "Food and bills are expensive as I keep so many. Keeping only one or two is no more expensive than having a dog."

Difficulties include getting the reptiles to breed, incubating the eggs and ensuring the hatchlings eat. However, Garry prides himself on breeding well-behaved animals.

Since he keeps them in the house, referencing them as pets would mean training them like you would a dog or a cat.

This is the ultimate goal for Garry; one that he continues to work towards.