Ever wondered where Canada’s largest indoor reptile zoo resides? Right here at Reptilia.
Reptilia is not just one place. It is a collection of zoos. These zoos sprawl across a combined area of over 84000 square feet. Inside, you will find more than 250 reptiles amphibians and arachnids.
Currently Reptilia has three locations in Ontario. You can find them in Vaughan, Whitby, and London. The original Reptilia zoo began in Vaughan. It occupies a 25000-square-foot facility. In 2018 Reptilia opened a second location in Whitby. This new zoo was in a former Rona store. The Rona store had 31000 square feet.
Reptilia houses about 250 species of reptiles. Among them is Induna. Induna is Canada’s largest crocodile. He is a 14-foot male Nile crocodile. Induna weighs 1200 pounds. Reptilia also has 20-foot-long pythons. You can also see anacondas poison dart frogs and rattlesnakes.
Interestingly about 75% of Reptilia’s animals are rescues. The rest are either born there or come from other accredited facilities. Many rescues come from owners who cannot handle the adult size of their pets. Reptilia receives constant calls about unwanted reptiles. The zoo takes in about 75 animals each year. Many of these animals are later sent to other facilities.
Each Reptilia location features a theatre area. Here, you can watch interactive reptile shows.
Reptilia also has a strong educational focus. They provide curriculum-compliant programs. These programs range from kindergarten to grade 12. They also offer specialized post-secondary programs. These are for first responders, educators, animal control officers and veterinarians. Reptilia provides lessons at its facilities. Reptiles are also transported to schools. These school lessons typically last one hour.
Reptilia works with other educational organizations. They supply reptiles to the Ontario Science Centre. They also assist the Toronto Zoo with educational programs. Reptilia also has classrooms and party rooms. You can rent these rooms for events like birthday parties. Each room is named after a different reptile.
But that’s not all. Reptilia even contributes to the film industry. They provide reptiles and skilled handlers. You might have seen Reptilia’s animals in Guinness, Murdoch Mysteries, Canada’s Greatest Know-It-All, YTV, and Daily Planet.
Reptilia began with its original site in Vaughan. It spans 25000 square feet. Later, it expanded to Whitby in 2018. This location was a converted Rona store with 31000 square feet. In 2022, the London City Council approved Reptilia’s expansion into Westmount Mall.
So, whether you’re looking to learn about reptiles, celebrate a birthday, or even spot a movie star, Reptilia has something for everyone. Step inside and discover the fascinating world of reptiles. You might just find your new favorite creature.