Reptile Expo by North Coast Herpetology Group at Panthers 2018 | photos

No-one had a hissy fit as the North Coast Herpetology Group and breeders from around the state displayed unique native reptiles, including venomous snakes.

Billabong Zoo held educational pit shows, and pets, food, accessories and enclosures were for sale.

Kadee Ward really enjoyed looking at the lizards, and said she’s in love with reptiles.

Her friend, Bianca Miller said they were there to admire the creatures on display.

“I think they’re adorable.  They’re not your typical pet; they’re unique and interesting,” she said.

The North Coast Herpetology Group treasurer, Debbie Green, said the event on Sunday March 18 is now the only expo between Sydney and Queensland.

She says anyone with snakes, dragons, lizards and gekkos is welcome to join the group.

“Reptiles are popular pets because they’re a bit different and they’re easy to keep, if you don’t have much room.  Snakes only get fed once a week, and unlike dogs, you don’t have to walk them,” she said.

Debbie’s son keeps pythons, dragons and venomous snakes including death adders and tiger snakes, for which you need a licence.  She said some of the snake-owners at the expo wrap their snakes around themselves when they’re watching TV.

“This expo is to raise awareness about reptiles and if anyone has any questions, they can come and ask an expert,” she said.

“Stuart Johnson from Billabong Zoo is here, giving educational talks and we are very appreciative of them being a sponsor.”

Snakes can live up to 40 years.  Mark Willis brought his Centralian carpet snake, Nickeisha.

“I find snakes fascinating.  Nickeisha is a sook.  She loves to be around people, and she is very curious,” he said.

On a scale of one to ten, the expo was a big success.