Our history

The story of Wild Wonders began long before it had a name.

Michael Rossi has been working with reptiles since childhood. Fueled by a deep fascination with snakes, turtles, lizards, and alligators, he pursued a career in science education, earning his Master of Education in 1995. Over the next 30+ years, Mike inspired countless students through hands-on teaching and a contagious passion for wildlife.

In 2002, that passion took on a new form with the creation of the Wild Wonders Animal Show — an educational program designed to entertain and inform children about reptiles through the power of storytelling, music, and humor. The show quickly gained popularity for its interactive, family-friendly format and unique mix of education and fun.

By 2024, Mike’s mission had evolved. Recognizing the urgent need for reptile rehabilitation — particularly for turtles and tortoises, whose populations are rapidly declining — he founded TNT: Turtle and Tortoise Reptile Rehabilitation, Inc. as a nonprofit extension of Wild Wonders. This new branch focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and long-term care of injured, sick, or displaced chelonians.

Today, Mike continues to deepen his knowledge under the guidance of the Wildlife Rescue Coalition (WRC) while building TNT into a hub of education, conservation, and compassionate care. His vision is to bring together past audiences, new supporters, and reptile lovers everywhere to protect these peaceful animals — for now and for generations to come.