Ocean Park is set to unleash its wildest attraction yet! Today, the Park officially unveiled Reptile Territory, its first-ever reptile haven. Located at The Summit, this immersive exhibit invites visitors to step into the mysterious world of reptiles, uncovering the remarkable secrets of these misunderstood masters of survival while highlighting the vital importance of protecting biodiversity. Following an exclusive preview for Ocean Park Annual Members tomorrow, this vibrant new exhibit officially opens to the public on Friday, 21 August 2026.
Celebrating this exciting milestone, today’s opening ceremony was officiated by Mickey Lai, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation of the HKSAR Government; Joanne Chu, Deputy Commissioner for Tourism of the HKSAR Government; Paulo Pong, Chairman of Ocean Park Corporation (OPC), and other OPC representatives including Ivan Wong, Chief Executive; Howard Chuk, Executive Director of Zoological Operations and Conservation; Isabel Li, Executive Director of Education, and Rosalind Siu, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Entertainment.
“We are thrilled to introduce Reptile Territory. Through engaging interactive elements and narrations, visitors will see these fascinating animals in a whole new light. We are deeply grateful to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for entrusting the Park’s conservation and animal care experts with confiscated and rescued animals, allowing us to voluntarily provide a safe home and professional care for them. We hope to give the public a platform to learn about the characteristics, habitats and ecosystems of various species, and to inspire visitors to live in harmony with nature and join us in safeguarding biodiversity,”said Paulo Pong, Chairman of Ocean Park Corporation.
Dispelling myths and celebrating nature’s wonders
Built around the theme of ‘myth-busting’, the new Reptile Territory at Ocean Park challenges common stereotypes, revealing that these quirky, cold-blooded critters are fascinating and lovable. Visitors will journey through thoughtfully curated habitats to meet the reptile crew — each with its own unique personality and story.
Get ready to a face-to-face encounter with some of nature’s most astonishing living designs, including the rhinoceros iguana, a hulking giant that looks like a miniature dinosaur but is actually a total softie who loves plants; the endangered Chinese crocodile lizard, a state-protected species affectionately dubbed the ‘sleeping snake’, renowned for its ability to stay perfectly still; the panther chameleon, a master of disguise and a 360-degree vision expert that pulls off colourful wardrobe changes; the blue-tongued skink, a docile character that flashes a startling blue tongue to ward off predators; and the sailfin lizard,a natural water-runner with an impressive, prehistoric-looking crest along its tail. From the snake-like European legless lizard to the giant horned lizard that sports the armour of a warrior, every corner of the exhibit reveals an extraordinary adaptation.
A sanctuary born from conservation and collaboration
Behind its awe-inspiring display, the Reptile Territory carries a meaningful message. Some of the exhibit’s residents have been rescued from the illegal wildlife trade by the AFCD. Ocean Park has provided these animals with a safe, nurturing home, transforming their journeys into a powerful educational showcase. The exhibit allows the Park to highlight the devastating impacts of wildlife trafficking and serves as a call to action for visitors to become conscious, responsible pet owners.
Mickey Lai, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation of the HKSAR Government, said, “The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Ocean Park have long collaborated to advance reptile conservation and safeguard biodiversity. The opening of the new Reptile Territory represents a new milestone in Ocean Park’s conservation and education efforts, but also continues the Park’s distinguished achievements in protecting rare and endangered species. The rhinoceros iguanas and blue-tongued skinks, which were donated by AFCD, will be showcased to convey to citizens and visitors the message of protecting biodiversity and opposing illegal wildlife trade, while reminding the public not to illegally possess endangered reptiles.”
Immersive and fun learning experiences
Learning is transformed into an interactive playground at the new exhibit. Families can join the daily Animal Fun Talk: Reptile Stars & Rainforest Friends to see the new animal ambassadors up close. Feeling curious? Hit the special walkie-talkie buzzer during the Rep Rep Press Conference to chat live with the experts caring for these stars. Tech-savvy explorers can also fire up the SEEK by iNaturalist app to turn their visit into a digital treasure hunt, identifying animals and unlocking badges as they go.
Take the scaly adventure home
To mark the occasion, Ocean Park is launching an exclusive merchandise collection. Blending the scaly world with the fluffy, these whimsical designs uniquely incorporate elements of Ocean Park’s immensely popular giant pandas, making them the perfect, must-have keepsakes for fans of all ages.
Pack your curiosity and head over to Ocean Park to meet the most charismatic crew in town. Whether you are a lifelong reptile fan or just looking to bust a few myths, the Reptile Territory promises a wild, eye-opening adventure for all ages!
For more information about the new Reptile Territory exhibit, please visit:
https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en/a-day-at-the-park/events/reptile-territory
For Ocean Park admission ticket promotions (enjoy up to 30% off), please visit: