SLIPPERY ROCK — Alex Petridis is not unusual compared to many other teenage boys in his fascination with snakes, frogs and even crocodiles.

What is unusual is his dedication to teaching others about those reptiles and amphibians.

The Slippery Rock High School junior has started a film crew that focuses on the subject. The crew, known as TASOW, or The Awesome Spirit of Wildlife, involves several classmates and friends who help Petridis with video taping, editing and research.

The group formed last year but already has performed educational presentations for schools as well as wildlife seminars for adults.

At the beginning of July, they will present at Coopers Lake Campground in Muddy Creek Township during a conference for the Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts Association.

"They asked us to lead the reptile and amphibian section of the conference," Petridis said.

TASOW will do an educational presentation, then lead small groups to identify different species in Moraine State Park in Muddy Creek Township and at the Jennings Environmental Education Center in Brady Township.

As with his other teaching gigs, Petridis just wants to break down some of the stereotypes that keep people from appreciating these types of creatures.

"Our purpose is to teach the (benefits) of reptiles and amphibians," he said.

The appeal for local students is Petridis' focus on reptiles in this area, according to Adele Christy, Moniteau High School biology and earth science teacher. Christy has invited Petridis to talk to her classes a few times.

"He's spent a lot of time researching conservation locally," she said.

Petridis will catch water snakes, frogs and other creatures to bring to the class, then he'll discuss the problems they're facing in the area. Many times this deals with humans encroaching on their habitat.

Christy, who is interested in herpetology as a hobby, has helped to teach Petridis about reptiles as well. In fact, Petridis listed her as one of his role models in recent years.

Petridis said he isn't sure how to explain where his interest began —- it's just always been there. His mom's career as a wildlife photographer has had something to do with it, he added. What inspired him to start the film crew were shows like "Crocodile Hunter," and others that appear on Animal Planet, a cable television channel. Eventually, he plans to become a wildlife cinematographer and has no qualms about "jumping on alligators backs," he said.

"There's only one thing that creeps me out — and that's holding adult snapping turtles," he said. "They can get mean."

For now, Petridis knows how to surround himself with the people that can help him get the word out on reptiles. Included in his group are cameramen, photographers, editors and research assistants. TASOW also has a Web site dedicated to education.

At home, Petridis has a baby red-tailed boa constrictor. The year-old snake is a little over 2 feet long, according to Petridis, but will grow to 8 or 9 feet.

He also helps hatch or raise reptiles and amphibians for a few local wildlife rehabilitation centers. He has some box turtles at home and has hatched eggs of black racer and black rat snakes and snapping turtles.

Part of his education goal includes teaching others about which reptiles and amphibians make good pets and how to care for them. He also stresses that the most important step is to buy the animals from solid dealers to begin with.

"You can't get them from the flea market or keep them from the wild," he said.

Other members of TASOW from Slippery Rock High School are Joseph McChesney, Travis Wimer, Melissa Klein, Darcy Hines, Tyler Brian, Justin Brown, Michael Acquavita and Joachim Austin. Brandon Enck of Portersville Christian School is also a member of the group.

For more information on the group, go to tasow.thepokematrix.com.