Gators, snakes and lizards: What to know about the 28th annual Sacramento Reptile Expo
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
Back for its 28th year, the Sacramento Reptile Expo is set to educate families on all things scaly and slithery.
Promoted as the largest reptile exhibit in Northern California, the Reptile Expo at Cal Expo will become home to snakes, lizards, tortoises and even an alligator.
But the event is more than just a visual spectacle for the kids: The event also focuses on the larger picture of conservation and learning more about the local organizations working to protect wildlife.
In previewing the event set for this weekend, event organizers and their cold-blooded colleagues joined KCRA 3 on Tuesday morning to talk about the event’s goals this year.
In the video above, you can find the full interview featuring:
Spike, the 38-year-old North American alligator who was rescued from a Los Angeles man’s bathtub. He’s been working with families for more than 34 years since then. Spike is about 6 feet long and weighs about 110 pounds, but the crocodilian is capable of being much bigger.Dr. Doom, a Dumeril’s boa that is about six-and-a-half feet long. While Dr. Doom already appears large, his species can grow larger.Tio, an Argentinian Tegu. Organizers say this type of lizard is not recommended as a starter pet because of how much care it requires.Smaug, a Gila monster whose name is definitely a “Lord of the Rings” reference and not California “smog,” his handler explained. Gila monsters are only one of two venomous lizards on this planet and the only type in North America. Researchers apparently found out there’s a protein in their venom that is used to make Ozempic.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $20 for people ages 13 and older and $13 for children 12 and under. Children 3 and under can enter for free.
You can find more information on the event here.
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