Lubbock Reptile Lovers: This Amarillo Expo Is Worth the Road Trip

As a mother to a beautiful little reptile, Minerva the Leopard Gecko, I'm quite fond of reptiles, amphibians, and other less traditional pets. If you have a thing for these types of critters, the shirt road trip to the Lone Star Reptile Expo in Amarillo may be for you.

What to Expect at the Amarillo Reptile Expo

The expo will have vendors with many types of animals, including snakes, turtles, frogs, tarantulas, and other reptile/ amphibians and invertebrates. You may even see some exotic mammal pets. Additionally, there will be plenty of supplies for these animals, including feeders, enclosures, and more.

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When/ Where/ How Much Is The Expo?

Entry into the expo is affordable, with adult tickets at $10 (or $9 if you pre-order), kids at $5, and children 6 and under free. If you have a kiddo with a fascination for these animals, that admission cost seems well worth it, even if you just look around.

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The expo will be held at the Amarillo Civic Center Complex at 401 S Buchanan St. on Saturday, September 19th (10 AM–5 PM) and Sunday, September 20th (10 AM–4 PM).

Yes, You Can Actually Take a Reptile Home

Plenty of animals will be available to see, and most will be available for purchase. However, these animals have unique husbandry needs, and if you do purchase one, I highly encourage you to ask the vendor what food, habitats, etc. your animal will require. They can be very temperature sensitive, so make sure you can get the animal back to Lubbock safely, too.

Know Before You Go/ Buy

Many of these animals require "feeders," so if you are squeamish or tender-hearted, you might skip getting a python that will require mice or another mammal for food. If you are looking for a "beginner" reptile, I would suggest Leopard Geckos. They are fairly simple to care for (but absolutely require calcium on their feeders!), eat bugs, and have no teeth, so if they bite you, it only hurts your feelings. I've had my little one for 10 years, and apparently they can live up to 30!

If you do choose to purchase an animal, please commit to possible years of care and attention to detail, as they will rely on you for everything. The joy they will bring you will be well worth it.