Unlike typical teenagers, Faz’s world revolves around creatures that many might find unsettling, yet for him, they are a source of joy and comfort.
Living with autism, Faz has found an extraordinary connection with these creatures, who to him, are his friends and confidants.
From hissing cockroaches and scorpions to water skinks and flying geckos, Faz’s room is a curious menagerie.
“I love exotic pets because they’re just more unique than cats and other pets. They are my whole world. When I feel stressed, I start handling my roaches and it works wonders for me!” Faz, the eldest of two siblings, shared with FMT Lifestyle.
Walk into his room, and you will be greeted by a peculiar orchestra of hisses, croaks, and the silent shuffle of scales. Initially a source of discomfort for his parents, they soon discovered the joy these creepy crawlies brought to their son.
“At first my parents felt a bit scared because I chose a scorpion as my first pet. After two months, they finally understood why I love them. They are unique and easy to care for, but not all of my animals are easy!” he explained.
Faz’s fascination with exotic pets is a testament to his unique way of seeing the world. From a young age, he was drawn to the unusual and the misunderstood, finding beauty in places others might not.
“I started getting interested in them after watching videos from Snake Discovery,” he recalled. This curiosity quickly blossomed into a full-fledged passion for learning the intricacies of how best to care for them.
Despite common misconceptions, Faz insisted that his love for these animals isn’t linked to his autism.
“It’s just my hobby and interest!” he said. For him, owning exotic pets is about the thrill of caring for something unique.
Among Faz’s cherished collection is his favourite: the hissing cockroach. While many might cringe at the thought, Faz finds joy in their distinct personalities.
“People often misunderstand why I have so many roaches, considering them dirty and disgusting. But for me, they’re clean, rewarding pets that don’t bite and can be handled without any problem,” he mentioned.
He recounted a funny incident involving one of his roaches that always hisses when it sees him, a dramatic display that he finds amusing. “It’s just his way of protecting himself, but he always seems surprised when he sees me!”
One of Faz’s most remarkable pets is Mango, a green iguana. Unlike the cockroaches, Mango requires a lot of attention and care.
“He’s probably the biggest I own and the hardest to take care of,” Faz noted. Mango’s demanding needs, from specialised lighting to a strict diet, mirror Faz’s dedication and commitment.
Mango also has a habit of getting angry at its reflection, often attempting to jump at the mirror. “It’s funny to watch him try his best to attack his own reflection,” Faz laughed.
As Faz continues to explore his passion, he hopes to change perceptions and inspire others to see the beauty in the unconventional.
“I wish to show people and educate them that these animals aren’t actually scary after all,” Faz concluded.