Despite often being kept as pets, most people still think ill of reptiles and amphibians. Ethnobiologist Luis MP Ceríaco outlines that one major reason for this is the negative depictions of reptiles and amphibians in stories and folktales, which means that, “they are among the least appreciated of vertebrates and victims of many negative values and wrong ideas resulting from the direct interpretation of folklore.” Ceríaco’s study has also found that these negative perceptions often mean that reptiles and amphibians are left out of necessary human care in the form of preservation and conservation efforts.
This is where artist Derptiles comes in. As their name suggests, Derptiles draws reptiles and amphibians as cute and derpy (awkward) critters to subvert their conventional slimy and disgusting depictions. Derptiles’ artworks help people familiarize themselves with the fascinating lives of reptiles and amphibians. This move will help to change people’s perspectives of the critter so that their conservation and preservation efforts can increase. This is why drawings of derpy reptiles and amphibians by Derptiles are relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Life on Land.
Derptiles does a wide variety of drawings that they frequently post on social media such as Instagram, X/Twitter and TikTok. The heartwarming antics of their critters have gained tens of thousands of followers, culminating at almost 65 thousand on Instagram. When posting their derpy drawings of the critters, Derptiles ensure they include the species’ full names and photographs of their real-life forms. This helps their audiences become better acquainted with the different species of reptiles and amphibians.
Over the years, Derptiles’ drawings have also manifested recurring characters, including Hiki the Hedgehognose, Ball Pyuppy and Geckitty. These characters have been transformed into adorable and relatable short internet comics. They have also shown one of Derptiles’ most effective strategies in making reptiles and amphibians cuddly—by fusing them with already popular mammals such as puppets, kittens and hedgehogs. To break it down: Ball Pyuppy is a ball python-puppy, Geckitty is a gecko-kitten and Hedgehognose is a hognose snake-hedgehog.
Derptiles’ charming and whimsical drawings of reptiles and amphibians transform public perceptions of these often misunderstood creatures. By depicting them as endearing and approachable, Derptiles helps counteract the negative stereotypes rooted in folklore and cultural bias. Through their widely shared art and social media presence, Derptiles educates and familiarizes audiences with the diverse species of reptiles and amphibians, encouraging conservation efforts and a greater appreciation for these creatures. This innovative approach promotes a positive shift in how people perceive and protect reptiles and amphibians.
Find out more about the derpy drawings of reptiles and amphibians and other initiatives by Derptiles on their website www.derptiles.art or Instagram @official_derptiles.