Madeline Smith is a reptile care writer and husbandry researcher at Zen Habitats, where she has authored over 200 care guides, species profiles, and educational articles since 2024. With over 15 years of hands-on experience keeping, breeding, and studying reptiles, Madeline brings both in-depth research and personal experience to every piece she writes. 

Her work at Zen Habitats covers enclosure setup, species-specific husbandry requirements, naturalistic full-spectrum / UVB lighting protocols, bioactive habitat design, and enrichment. Madeline is committed to evidence-based husbandry — drawing on current herpetological research, experience from long-time keepers and breeders, and the expertise of field researchers and veterinary professionals to ensure every guide reflects the best available care standards.

Outside of writing, Madeline co-owns Celestial Exotics LLC and breeds several species including Crested Geckos and Abronia Graminea lizards. She has previously volunteered as a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and worked in veterinary medicine. In her free time, she enjoys training and showing her three dogs.