My name is Jay W. Nelmes, I was born in Petrópolis Brazil in 1965. Although I did not live there long, I remember enough about this beautiful country that it has always intrigued me. My older brother, John Charles, is 16 years older than me, so he had the opportunity to explore the jungle quite often and collect butterflies as well as a wide variety of other insects that he mounted in display cases. His collection was fascinating and inspired me in the world of entomology.

With my attempt to imitate my brother’s work, it was in vain. His methods of using steam to spread his wings and other methods of preserving them was something I never learned. We both left when he went to England, while I moved to the United States in 1970 to the years. old.

During my late childhood I still collected insects in an attempt to imitate my brother, but I never managed to do so. Then I was drawn to the world of reptiles and amphibians, as this began to intrigue me.

I started building my first primitive cages for my first lizards that were anoles at 14 years old. The reptilian world at that time was not common. So finding one in a pet store wasn’t really available. The world of fish and birds always seemed to be accessible, but not the world of reptiles, which made it even more interesting to own and learn.

Over the years I learned drawing, carpentry and electricity. I married my wife Tinamarie, and it was on our honeymoon that I knew I loved these kinds of animals that we brought home an Iguana on the train back home to CT in a styrofoam cooler.

My wife became ill for several years shortly after our marriage. This is when I have focused my skills as a craftsman on making decorative cages. for the reptile world as it was all focused on Birds & Fish. There seemed to be a demand for suitable reptilian housing, so my mission was to channel my energies into this field.

This allowed me to be at home to take care of her. I am happy to say that you are doing well and that you have been my assistant for over 25 years. We have traveled to over 36 states now delivering these venues to residences, museums and universities, even celebrities.

Each of these enclosures is handcrafted and designed specifically for the needs of the animal. These enclosures are especially suitable for housing reptiles because I have designed them so that they can hold large pools of water. Most of these cabinets I personally deliver and configure myself, including interior trims as a complete system.

And best of all, maintenance is quick because it comes equipped with an easy rinse and rinse system.

Since 1997 we have been building and delivering these cages installing them throughout the United States.