About

About Melissa’s Yard

Hi, I’m Melissa — the heart and hands behind Melissa’s Yard!

After spending 17 years working in a bank, I realized it was time to finally follow my true passion: animals, especially the small, strange, and spectacular ones often overlooked. With the support of my wonderful husband, Greg, I transformed our spare bedroom into a cozy reptile and insect room, creating a space where I could learn, grow, and share my love for these amazing creatures.

Today, alongside working as a client services coordinator at a veterinary office, I dedicate my energy to educating others about the vital role reptiles and insects play in our world. Through hands-on experiences, fun activities, and close-up encounters, I aim to inspire curiosity, compassion, and respect for even the tiniest members of our ecosystem.

At Melissa’s Yard, everyone is welcome—whether you’re a lifelong bug enthusiast or just starting to overcome your fears. Together, we’ll explore the wonders of nature and learn how important even the smallest lives are in keeping our planet thriving.

Let’s get curious, get hands-on, and see the world through a bug’s-eye view!

Our Mission

At Melissa’s Yard, our mission is to provide a safe, welcoming space where children and adults can overcome fears and ignite curiosity through hands-on education with reptiles and exotic insects. Through engaging, interactive experiences and compassionate guidance, we aim to build confidence, foster a deep appreciation for biodiversity, and inspire a lifelong respect for the often misunderstood creatures that share our world. By promoting environmental awareness and creating fun, supportive learning opportunities, we empower the next generation to become passionate stewards of the natural world—one bug, one reptile, one discovery at a time.

Learn more about our services