Internationally renowned Exotic Animal Trainer / Hollywood California
 

Biography

Monty Cox: A Life with Animals and Adventure

Monty Cox, born on June 1, 1940, in Huntington, Indiana, spent his early years in Oakland, California. His childhood was marked by a sense of adventure and mischief, growing up with his older brother Doug in a small trailer court. Monty’s father was a merchant marine, often away at sea, leaving their mother to raise the boys. Despite the challenges, Monty’s early life was filled with gymnastics and the thrill of potential opportunities, such as an offer from Ringling Bros. to join the circus.

 
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As a young boy…

Monty’s life took a tumultuous turn when his family moved to Reno, Nevada. In Reno, he mingled with local Piute Indians, which led to numerous adventures and frequent trouble. His bold spirit often clashed with authority, resulting in multiple run-ins with the law. Eventually, these confrontations landed him in a reform school in Elko, Nevada. Monty’s time in the reform school was marked by violence and brutality, providing a harsh, formative experience that would shape his resilient character.

Upon his release from the reform school, Monty sought solace and excitement in the desert and through various jobs. He developed a love for scuba diving, eventually transitioning into commercial diving. Monty’s diving experiences in the 1960s were akin to the Wild West underwater, marked by thrilling and often dangerous encounters.

Monty’s career took a pivotal turn when he began working as an animal handler. His big break came with an interview at Africa USA, where he started handling exotic animals. His innate ability to understand and connect with animals quickly became evident. Monty’s philosophy emphasized allowing animals to think and learn from their mistakes, fostering a deep understanding of their emotional and mental states.

One of Monty’s significant achievements was his role as the head trainer for the TV show "Gentle Ben," despite having no prior experience with bears. This opportunity showcased his natural talent for animal training and led to further high-profile projects. Monty worked on the film "Apocalypse Now," managing dangerous and complex animal scenes, further cementing his reputation in the industry.

Monty’s expertise with big cats brought him into collaboration with Siegfried & Roy, the famous entertainers. His work with the duo in Puerto Rico highlighted his skill and deep understanding of animal behavior. Throughout his career, Monty faced numerous challenges, including the infamous tiger attack on Roy Horn, which brought significant media attention.

Monty’s life and career were not just about training animals for the film industry. His adventures took him around the world, including working in India, where he experienced different cultural approaches to animal handling. His journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a profound respect for the animals he worked with.

Reflecting on his life, Monty often spoke about the beauty of nature and the bond between humans and animals. His memoir, "Animals, Movies, and Minds from Another Time," offers a fascinating insight into his world, blending personal anecdotes with professional experiences.

Monty Cox’s life was a testament to adventure, resilience, and an extraordinary ability to connect with the animal kingdom. His legacy in the world of exotic animal training for the film industry remains unparalleled, marked by his unique philosophy and deep respect for the creatures he worked with.

 
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