The National Reptile Zoo in Kilkenny City is inviting families and wildlife enthusiasts to celebrate World Snake Day (16th July) with a week-long programme of interactive animal encounters, educational talks and unforgettable experiences with some of the world’s most fascinating reptiles.
Home to more than 100 animals representing over 60 species from around the world, the National Reptile Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to come face-to-face with an incredible collection of snakes, including king cobras, mambas, giant pythons, rhinoceros rat snakes and many more. Open seven days a week from 10am to 6pm, the zoo welcomes both pre-booked visitors and walk-ins, making it the perfect destination to mark World Snake Day. Tickets can be booked at www.nrz.ie.
Throughout World Snake Day and this week, every general admission ticket includes access to the zoo’s hourly hands-on animal encounters, running from 11am to 5pm each day. Led by experienced zookeepers, these interactive sessions introduce visitors to some of the zoo’s most fascinating animals, including a variety of snake species. Guests will learn about their behaviour, habitats and the important role they play in ecosystems around the world, while also having the opportunity to get up close to some of the zoo’s non-venomous residents during these hands-on experiences.
Alongside the animal encounters, families can explore the zoo’s wide range of exhibits, relax in the on-site café and enjoy the children’s play area, making it an ideal summer day out for visitors of all ages.
Established in 2006 by Zoo Director and Herpetologist James Hennessy, the National Reptile Zoo has grown into one of Ireland’s leading wildlife conservation and education centres. With one in four of its resident species classified as endangered, the zoo plays an important role in conservation breeding, scientific research and international wildlife projects, while inspiring tens of thousands of visitors each year to better understand and protect reptiles and biodiversity.
Speaking on World Snake Day, James Hennessy, Zoo Director at the National Reptile Zoo, said, “World Snake Day is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the world’s most misunderstood animals. Snakes play an essential role in healthy ecosystems, yet many species are facing increasing threats from habitat loss and human activity. At the National Reptile Zoo, we’re passionate about helping people see these incredible animals in a new light through hands-on experiences, education and conservation. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone’s fear turn into fascination after meeting a snake up close, and that’s what this day is all about. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to celebrate with us and discover why snakes deserve our respect and protection.”
To kick off World Snake Day, the National Reptile Zoo is also launching its new ‘Reptile of the Month’ series on Instagram (@thenationalreptilezoo), giving followers the opportunity to discover a different animal each month through fascinating facts, behind-the-scenes content and insights from the zoo’s founder, James Hennessy. Designed to bust common myths and challenge misconceptions, the series aims to inspire curiosity, foster a greater appreciation for these remarkable animals, and highlight the vital role they play in ecosystems around the world.
Whether you’re a lifelong reptile enthusiast or meeting a snake for the very first time, World Snake Day provides the perfect opportunity to visit the National Reptile Zoo, discover these often-misunderstood animals, and learn why they deserve our protection.
For more information, ticket details and opening hours, visit www.nrz.ie
