WELCOME
Tyrone Ping is a passionate herpetologist and photographer based in Cape Town, South Africa. His fascination with reptiles and amphibians began in childhood, nurtured by frequent encounters with these creatures in his suburban garden.This early interest has evolved into a lifelong commitment to documenting the rich diversity of Southern Africa’s herpetofauna.
As an explorer and advocate for wildlife conservation, Tyrone travels extensively across Southern Africa, capturing stunning photographs of various reptiles and amphibian species. His work highlights the unique and often cryptic species endemic to the region, many of which remain undescribed despite being known for decades. Tyrone collaborates with NGOs like Herpetological Conservation International, using his photography to support conservation efforts and provide resources for academic research.
In addition to his fieldwork, Tyrone is an accomplished author who has released two field guides: A Field Guide to Snakes & Other Reptiles of the Western Cape and A Field Guide to Snakes & Other Reptiles of KwaZulu-Natal. These guides serve as valuable resources for enthusiasts and researchers alike, offering insights into the ecology, behaviour, and distribution of various species. Tyrone shares his knowledge and passion through this website. He emphasises the importance of protecting South Africa’s biodiversity and warns against supporting the illegal pet trade that threatens these remarkable species. Through his adventures and advocacy, Tyrone Ping continues to inspire others to appreciate and conserve the incredible herpetofauna of Southern Africa.