‘Even the good guys were doing bad things’: the wild, twisted story behind the new Tiger King

Inspired by the surge in reptile interest following ‘Jurassic Park,’ the docuseries ‘Monsters of God’ exposes the vast and often violent global trade in exotic reptiles. It traces the history of this illicit business from its origins in the 1960s to the present day, highlighting key figures involved in smuggling, their methods, and the legal battles that ensued. The series explores the moral ambiguities within the trade, implicating not only criminals but also law enforcement and institutions, while also touching upon the impact on native ecosystems and the paradoxical role of zoos.

• The docuseries ‘Monsters of God’ explores the shadowy world of exotic reptile trafficking, a multibillion-dollar industry.
• The trade’s origins are traced back to the 1960s with Hank Molt, who established a reptile price list and mailing service.
• Key figures in the trade include Tommy Crutchfield, Ray Van Nostrand, Mario Tabraue, and Anson Wong, often described as ‘the Pablo Escobar of animal trafficking’.
• Smuggling methods evolved, including concealing reptiles with drugs to deter inspectors.
• The series highlights the aging figures of the trade and features interviews with individuals struggling with memory loss, such as Ray Van Nostrand.
• While no animals were harmed in the production, the series depicts the harsh realities of the black market, including ‘spoiled inventory’.
• The trade has pushed some reptile species towards extinction and has had impacts on native ecosystems through invasive species.
• The documentary raises questions about the role of zoos in both fueling the trade and potentially aiding conservation efforts.
• The series examines the moral ambiguity faced by federal agents involved in pursuing reptile smugglers.
• Musician Slash contributed to the series’ soundtrack.