Episode 138: Best RETIC Clutch of 2025?!? Aztec Tiger Kayuadis w/Nathan Hess

Episode 138: Best RETIC Clutch of 2025?!? Aztec Tiger Kayuadis w/Nathan Hess

Author: The Reptile Lounge Network May 16, 2025 Duration: 1:16:23

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan sit down with Nathan Hess of [@nathan\_hess\_retics](https://www.instagram.com/nathan_hess_retics) to dive into one of the most exciting first-time breedings in recent memory. Nathan shares the story behind his debut clutch of Reticulated Pythons, the meticulous husbandry practices that got him there, and the custom enclosures he built to provide optimal care for his animals.

What makes this clutch so special? Nathan jumped in with both feet, pairing an Aztec Tiger to a Pure Kayuadi locality Reticulated Python—a bold move that not only challenges traditional breeding approaches but could also represent a major leap forward in the morph × locality game here in the U.S. From working with mentors to trusting his process, this episode is packed with insight and excitement for new and experienced keepers alike.

Follow the Hosts:

* Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)
* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Sponsored by:

* [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)
* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)
* [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10)

Support USARK & USARK FL:

* [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)
* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Whether you're into bold pairings, first-time breeder success stories, or locality work—this one’s not to be missed.


The Retic Lounge is a space for those fascinated by one of the world's most magnificent snakes. This podcast from The Reptile Lounge Network delves into the specifics of reticulated python care, moving beyond basic tips to explore nuanced husbandry practices, the considerations of breeding, and detailed conversations about different locality types and their potential sizes. It's built on conversations, featuring interviews with both newcomers to the hobby and seasoned breeders to share a wide spectrum of experiences and knowledge. The community aspect is central, with live Q&A sessions that address listener questions directly. Whether you're setting up your first enclosure or navigating the complexities of a breeding project, this podcast serves as a gathering point for shared learning and support, all focused on the responsible and passionate keeping of these impressive animals. Tune into The Retic Lounge for detailed discussions that aim to deepen your understanding and connect you with the wider community of retic enthusiasts.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

The Retic Lounge
Podcast Episodes
Episode 58: Bob Bledsoe of Green Room Pythons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:28:46
Welcome to episode 58 of The Retic Lounge with your hosts Lucas Bagnara and Nathan Katz! In this exciting episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the multi-talented Bob Bledsoe of Green Room Pythons. As Bob him…
Episode 56: Is the Reticulated Python Market CRASHING? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:57
Join hosts Lucas Bagnara and Nathan Katz in Episode 56 of The Retic Lounge as they delve into the intriguing question: Is the Pet Reticulated Python Market facing a crash? Explore market trends, factors, and opinions on…
Episode 55: Enrichment For Your Snake [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:17:10
Join us in Episode 55 of The Retic Lounge with your hosts Lucas Bagnara and Nathan Katz as we dive into the fascinating world of snake enrichment in captivity. Discover innovative and effective methods to keep our scaly…
Episode 53: Reticulated Python Behavior Education W/Lori Torrini [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:42:30
Tune in this week to one of Lucas' and Nathan's favorite interview thus far! Lori is an expert in behavioral analysis and modification and has been using these strategies with reptiles for years! Learn about how this can…
Episode 52: Choosing Your Holdbacks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:58
Join hosts Lucas Bagnara and Nathan Katz on The Retic Lounge as they dive deep into the fascinating world of reticulated pythons! 🌟 In this episode, they'll be your guides, helping you navigate the process of selecting t…
Episode 49: TK Kala-WHAT?! Are TK Kalaotoa Actually Kalaotoa? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:06
In episode 49 of The Retic Lounge, join hosts Lucas Bagnara and Nathan Katz as they unravel the mystery surrounding Travis Kubes' legendary line of Kaloatoa Reticulated Pythons. With a deep dive into the archives of The…