Lauren Sullivan is a head turner. She's so striking; it's easy to picture her at the latest trendy spot on Pearl Street. But the heads she turns at the Colorado Reptile Humane Society are scaly-and thinking she may bring them a meal of insects or worms. As Sullivan maneuvers through grassy pens, she gently hoists rescued turtles and checks their growth.

They do not retreat into their shells.

Sullivan, a senior at the University of Colorado majoring in ecology and evolutionary biology, began volunteering at CoRHS in June 2008, and puts in about 20 hours per week, caring mainly for turtles and tortoises. She also contributes to the society's research project on Colorado's box turtle population.

"Many of these reptiles come from horrendous situations, so it is satisfying to know they are getting the care they need," said Sullivan, noting that many suffer from malnutrition and bone disease due to owner neglect. "People view reptiles as low-maintenance pets, but they're not."

Sullivan's work meshes perfectly with her values: "Most aspects of my life revolve around animals, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

For information about volunteering with Colorado Reptile Humane Society or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.