The Desert Mind

If you’re here, you’re interested not just in better husbandry, but in Herpetoculture as an evolving industry and way of life. This is where I write about what I’m seeing in my animals, how my thinking changes over time, and how I believe this field needs to grow if it’s going to mature beyond trends and hype.

You’ll find working ideas, long-term patterns, and honest documentation of what holds up in the real world as well as unbiased and nonjudgmental consulting with your Herpetocultural endeavors. 

Bee Pollen: What You Need to Know

By Phillip Lietz on Mar 02, 2026

Good morning, everyone! Here is a repost of a short piece that got much attention. I think that the example given here of Bee Pollen is representative of the kinds of imbalances present in Herpetoculture tha...

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Early 2026 Update, Molco Photo, and More!

By Phillip Lietz on Mar 01, 2026

Hey everyone! I hope you are all having a productive and engaging Interesting to note that winter in Colorado has been sufficiently warm that I have been able to sun soak the Tortoises during most days....in...

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Welcome to The Desert Mind!

By Phillip Lietz on Feb 21, 2026

Hello and welcome to my new endeavor, The Desert Mind.  With the help of the great people at 41 North Digital, and due to the deactivation of my Patreon page, The Desert Mind is designed to be an extremely u...

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From many, meaning.

By Phillip Lietz on Jan 31, 2026

Philippe D’Vosjoli (someone I admire and deeply respect) introduced to Herpetoculture the idea that our main guiding ethos should revolve around “from few, many.” The main thrust of this concept is that wild...

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Project: Herpetoculture

By Phillip Lietz on Dec 22, 2025

Project : Herpetoculture Hosted by Phillip Lietz an...

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Xenagama Care Guide

By Phillip Lietz on Dec 22, 2025

 Xenagama taylori: Captive Care, Breeding, and the ...

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