The Reptile Zoo

“Despite naysayer’s claims that The Reptile Zoo in Fountain Valley is not a “real” zoo, the fact is, it very much meets the standard definition of “zoo”. That being, “A zoo (short for zoological garden or park) is a facility where live animals, particularly wild species, are kept in enclosures or, increasingly, in simulated natural habitats, for public exhibition, education, research, and conservation. They function as educational institutions and often participate in breeding programs for endangered species.” In the case of The Reptile Zoo, they also take in rescues. Now, I’m not an expert on reptile habitat. I’m just an average guy who enjoys the occasional post on social media, and decided that since I’m visiting the area I would go check out what this zoo is all about. I had read many of the negative reviews from folks who probably have as little knowledge of the subject matter as I do. Yes, the facility is smaller than I expected, and yes, the individual enclosures are also smaller than I expected for most of the reptile inhabitants, but I don’t have a clue what is actually suitable and acceptable. I would like to think that the folks that run this operation know what they are doing and are doing the best they can for these creatures. All of this said, this is a really interesting place to visit and explore. More than once, staff offered to answer any questions I may have had. They seem quite excited to teach, and talk about the animals. It’s a pretty cool experience for just $15.00. Very much recommended.”

“It was my grandson birthday and he loves reptiles. Great place for kids to spend a few hours here, they can learn more about the reptiles and a chance to interact with the different species. All my grandkids loved and really enjoyed this place. Staff was easy going, the presenter was patient and funny. Announced before the presentation that it was a paid presentation. You can feed turtles anytime. Prices were exactly as stated on the site. $5 for tortoise feeding cups (and you can keep the cup!)”

“We visited this place because it has “zoo” in it when we were searching for zoo to the little one explore about nature. It was so small that when we arrived we thought we came to the wrong place. There are many varieties of different reptiles here, snakes, pythons, geckos, lizards, alligators, turtles, etc. Their exhibitions really weren’t an exhibition, more like a cage, exposed to human guests. This place reminds as a shop that sells pets rather than a zoo. I don’t know much about reptiles, but I do partly agree with some other reviews here. Some exhibits are too small for the reptiles living in it.”