Phoenix Herpetological Society: Not Many People Know About This Unique Zoo In Arizona

Of all of the unexpected things you may find hidden away in the Phoenix area, you probably never considered there would be a sanctuary filled with exotic crocs, alligators and other reptiles you’ve never ever seen, much less, heard of, before.

And you'll be surprised what kinds of unusual, yet lovable, creatures you'll find here in Arizona! Like this 8-foot Nile Crocodile, with very healthy (and long) teeth!

He's just one of the residents of the facility operated by the Phoenix Herpetological Society, a reptile sanctuary located at a not-so-published location in the Phoenix area.

But don't worry... if you book a reservation for one of the public tours, then you'll get their exact location in the confirmation email. And then you can meet these lovable reptilian characters in person — and even get to handle some of them!

Would you stand in line to get up close and personal with this Monkey-tailed Skink? (Oh, but he's so cute, and not like those slimy, no-personality skinks you may find slithering around your yard... )

Speaking of personality, this may be the only time you spend around reptiles that have as much charisma as the ones found at this hidden sanctuary. The tortoises alone will captivate you for quite a long time.

Feeding time is also a fun experience. These giant African Sulcata Tortoises are chowing down on their salad buffet in the photo below.

You may have noticed the crowd of people in the photo above. Even though the sanctuary is not a public "zoo" in the same sense that most zoos are open daily from morning to nightfall, the Phoenix Herpetological Society hosts regularly-scheduled public tours almost daily. (You can see a schedule, and book one, at this link.)

Group tours are available as well, and are an ideal educational field trip for the kiddos.

While you're visiting, be sure to seek out the Banded Egyptian Cobra, affectionately known as "Eggy." He spends much of his time sequestered inside his cozy little egg abode, but if you're lucky, then you may see him peep his head out to say hello, and to perhaps see what he's missing.

And be certain to lay eyes on THE oldest False Gharial in captivity in the world. It's impolite to ask a lady her age, but we do know she is a grandmother!

Other fun characters to meet include this young Siamese Crocodile, who appears, in this photo, to have a little mischief in his demeanor.

Who knew that socked away in all that Phoenix has to offer is a fun and engaging reptile sanctuary filled with residents that receive lots of love and attention from the caregivers who foster conservation and preservation for these lovable creatures through rescues, rehabilitation, and then, when possible relocation?! Have you visited this cool sanctuary? We’d love to know!

The Phoenix Herpetological Society doesn’t actively promote its location, so we won’t publish the address. This is because walk-up visitors are not allowed. However, if you visit this page of their official website, then you can reserve a spot in a public, or private, tour and the location will be sent to you in the emailed confirmation. Scheduled, public tours cost $20 Adults; $15 Children; $15 Seniors; and Children 0-3 years old are free.

Learn more about this fun adventure on the official website, and on their Facebook page!

While you’re over in Phoenix, make plans to dine at a hidden restaurant found behind a secret door. Learn more here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Not Many People Know About This Unique Zoo In Arizona

Robin Jarvis

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