Ronald Huff lived with seven large Nile monitor lizards in his small studio apartment, and Alexandria Hall shared her home with more than 20 snakes and lizards. Yet the creatures that profoundly fascinated them also killed them. What was it about these people that encouraged them to take up such a deadly hobby? What change of events caused their demise?

Stories of wild pet ownership highlight how just one mistake can result in devastating consequences. Julie Burros was scalped by her pet black leopard after misinterpreting his mood. Cyndi Gamble paid the ultimate price when an open cage door left her vulnerable to her pet tiger she knew could kill her if it got the chance. And is a former Tarzan tempting fate with his feline pets?

A Wisconsin school teacher follows his dream of owning a two-ton Asian elephant.

Three men tempt fate when they bring a buck, a buffalo, and a bull into their lives and homes.

A man keeps two large saltwater crocs in a shed; Vivky Lowing has three pet crocodiles.