Are you ready to step into a world teeming with fascinating creatures from the ancient past and the present day? Having explored numerous zoos, I can confidently say that Prehistoric Pets houses an astounding collection of reptiles, possibly exceeding any zoo I’ve ever visited. This unassuming locale is packed with an incredible variety of animals, from massive 350-pound snakes to gentle desert tortoises. For families and reptile enthusiasts alike, Prehistoric Pets promises an exciting and educational outing. Continue reading for an in-depth review of this unique destination.
A Deep Dive into Prehistoric Pets
Essential Information for Your Visit:
- Admission: $15 per person (as of 2023 – Please verify current pricing)
- Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- More Than Just a Zoo: Prehistoric Pets also operates as a retail store specializing in reptile supplies and pets. Entry to the store area is free, while the zoo section is located on the left-hand side and requires paid admission.
The Genesis of Prehistoric Pets: From Pet Country to Reptile Haven
The remarkable journey of Prehistoric Pets began in 1988, fueled by the passion of Jay Brewer, a former fisherman, and his wife Becky. They established “Pet Country” in Fountain Valley, California, a pet store catering to a wide array of pet needs. However, Pet Country distinguished itself early on by becoming a pioneering retailer of a diverse range of reptiles in the region.
In 1992, Jay and Becky’s vision expanded dramatically. Pet Country transitioned into “Prehistoric Pets,” a sprawling 5,000 square foot superstore in Fountain Valley. Their ambition was to transcend the typical pet store experience, aiming to create an immersive, “zoo-like” environment for visitors. This transformation included the installation of a breathtaking 2,000-gallon pond at the store’s center, teeming with giant tropical fish, and exhibits showcasing over a thousand animals, including a magnificent 400lb. Galapagos Tortoise. Prehistoric Pets was designed to be a captivating destination, blurring the lines between a pet store and a zoological experience.
Exploring the Reptile Zoo: An Adventure Unveiled
Arriving in the industrial area where Prehistoric Pets is located, the unassuming storefront initially gave little hint of the incredible world within. While Jurassic-themed signs provided a clue, the true extent of the reptile collection remained a surprise. Stepping inside, any apprehension quickly dissolved as the extraordinary nature of Prehistoric Pets became immediately apparent.
The initial greeting comes from a lively pond inhabited by numerous snapping turtles and sizable fish, alongside an open area where giant tortoises freely roam. This initial encounter immediately signals that Prehistoric Pets is far from ordinary, setting the stage for a truly unique exploration.
To access the dedicated zoo area, a modest entry fee is required. While some online commentary expresses concerns about this charge, the sheer volume and diversity of reptiles within the zoo section quickly justify the cost. The collection is far more extensive and impressive than anticipated, offering an unparalleled reptile viewing experience.
Upon entering the zoo, one of the first exhibits to capture attention is the enclosure of Twinkie, a truly colossal 350-pound snake, once claimed to be the largest snake in captivity. Witnessing such a massive creature is an awe-inspiring experience. (Please note: As of 2015, Twinkie has unfortunately passed away. Prehistoric Pets continues to house impressive snake specimens).
For those, like myself, with limited reptile expertise, Prehistoric Pets presents an immersive and sometimes startling educational journey. The sheer variety of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles can be overwhelming in the best way possible. A memorable moment involved observing a snake exhibit, only to turn around and find myself face-to-face with an alligator in an adjacent tank – a testament to the close proximity and diverse nature of the exhibits.
Prehistoric Pets enhances the experience for younger visitors by offering supervised interactions with some of the gentler animals. This hands-on opportunity provides an unforgettable experience for children fascinated by reptiles. Additionally, the venue hosts birthday parties, creating unique and memorable celebrations centered around the animal kingdom.
The zoo area unfolds along a winding corridor, revealing a succession of exhibits featuring remarkable creatures. Lizards of impressive sizes, some reaching up to three feet in length, are among the many highlights. The sheer diversity of species and types is astonishing, showcasing the breadth of the reptile world.
Despite some mixed online reviews, my personal experience at Prehistoric Pets was overwhelmingly positive. I found it to be a thrilling and worthwhile adventure, easily justifying the modest entry fee. If you harbor any interest in reptiles or unique animal encounters, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Prehistoric Pets. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
