Reptile expos or shows are events where live wild-caught or captive-bred reptiles such as turtles, lizards, and snakes are displayed and sold, primarily for the pet trade. While sometimes portrayed as “hobbyist” gatherings, most reptile expos are commercial in nature. This review identifies major animal welfare and public health risks associated with commercial reptile expos.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the animal welfare and public health issues reported in the scientific literature regarding reptile expos in Europe and North America. The researchers also compared oversight of reptile expos to other animal-related businesses, conducted a limited survey of government officials, and conducted a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis. 

The investigation revealed at least 10 serious risks to animal welfare that are consistently present at reptile expos. For example, reptiles are frequently confined in small, restrictive enclosures that prevent natural movement and behaviors. The containers are often barren and fail to meet even minimal standards for space, temperature gradients, lighting, and humidity.

Water and food are routinely withheld, and animals may be “crypto-overcrowded” — meaning not all individuals can access a given resource at the same time. Reptiles endure highly stressful conditions including transportation, handling, and constant disturbance. Injury and disease are also common in these unnatural settings.

The study identified five major public health threats from reptile expos. Zoonotic pathogens can easily spread from reptiles to humans, especially with the lack of hygiene controls and close contact at expos. Of particular concern is the presence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. The unique dynamics of reptile expos also create a “perfect storm” for potential pandemics to emerge.

When the researchers analyzed existing oversight of reptile expos compared to pet stores, mobile zoos, and other animal businesses, they found an alarming lack of monitoring and regulation. Reptile expos had the least protection and posed the greatest potential for harm to animal welfare and human health.

The SWOT analysis further highlighted the severe Weaknesses (e.g. lack of veterinary supervision, impulse purchases) and Threats (e.g. disease risks, illegal wild animal trade) that characterize reptile expos. In contrast, the only Strengths identified were benefits to organizers and attendees, while Opportunities focused on the need for improved regulation and prohibition.

Based on the overwhelming evidence, the authors recommend that reptile expos be banned wherever possible. As an interim measure, they provide a list of 40 welfare and public health stipulations that should be strictly enforced at any expos that are allowed to continue operating. These include requiring veterinary supervision to assess animal health, providing species-appropriate enclosures with adequate space and enrichment, prohibiting the sale of wild-caught and exotic species, implementing strict hygiene protocols such as hand-washing stations, and preventing all physical contact between animals and the public.

Reptile expos pose risks to animals and people that cannot be mitigated by current practices. Ending these harmful events is necessary to protect reptiles from inhumane conditions and prevent zoonotic disease spread. Advocates can use the information in this study to educate policymakers and the public about the urgent need to stop reptile expos.