London Zoo snakes are housed in the Reptile House, a historic building that has been part of the zoo since 1927 and currently displays around 30 species of snakes, including pythons, boas, cobras, and vipers. The collection is managed by ZSL (Zoological Society of London), which runs the zoo for conservation and research, so the snakes you see are part of coordinated breeding programs rather than just exhibits.
History of the Reptile House
The Reptile House opened in 1927 and was one of the first buildings in the world designed specifically for keeping reptiles in controlled environments. It was built with heated terrariums and indoor pools, which were innovative at the time. Over the decades, the building has been renovated several times, most recently in the 2010s, to improve animal welfare and visitor experience. The building itself is a Grade II listed structure, meaning it has historical and architectural significance in the UK.
Famous former residents include a Komodo dragon and a pair of Galápagos tortoises, but the snake collection has always been a central focus. In the 1960s, the zoo bred the first ever captive king cobra, which was a significant achievement in herpetology at the time.
Snake Species You Can See
The current collection varies, but typical species include:
- Green anaconda – one of the heaviest snakes in the world, native to South America.
- Reticulated python – the longest snake species, reaching over 6 metres in the wild.
- King cobra – the world’s longest venomous snake, found in Asian forests.
- Gaboon viper – a West African viper with the longest fangs of any snake, up to 5 cm.
- Corn snake – a North American rat snake, often used in education displays.
- Emerald tree boa – a bright green arboreal boa from the Amazon.
Not all snakes are on display at all times; some are kept off-show for breeding or health reasons. The zoo’s website and on-site signage list the current residents.
How the Zoo Cares for Its Snakes
Each snake has a habitat tailored to its species. For example, desert species like the horned viper get dry, sandy enclosures with basking lamps, while rainforest species like the emerald tree boa get high humidity and vertical branches. The keepers monitor temperature, humidity, and lighting daily, and many enclosures have automatic misting systems.
Feeding is done on a schedule that matches each species’ natural diet. Most snakes are fed pre-killed rodents, which are thawed and warmed before being offered. Larger pythons and anacondas may go weeks between meals, while smaller snakes eat every 5–10 days. The zoo does not feed live prey, and visitors are not allowed to feed any animals.
ZSL also participates in conservation programs for threatened species, such as the Round Island boa from Mauritius, which is extinct in the wild. The zoo breeds these snakes and works with partners in Mauritius to restore their habitat.
Visiting the Reptile House
The Reptile House is located near the main entrance of London Zoo, in the north-west corner of Regent’s Park. It is open during normal zoo hours, usually 10:00–18:00 in summer and 10:00–16:00 in winter, but check the website for seasonal changes. Entry is included in the general zoo ticket, so you do not need a separate pass.
There are daily keeper talks about reptiles, usually at midday and mid-afternoon, where you can see snakes being fed or handled (depending on the species). These talks are free and first-come, first-served. The building is wheelchair accessible, though some viewing windows are low, so visitors in wheelchairs may need to view from a slight distance.
Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited because it can stress the animals. The zoo also offers behind-the-scenes experiences, such as “Reptile Encounter,” where you can meet a keeper and touch a non-venomous snake. These must be booked in advance and cost extra.
Common Questions About the Snakes
Many visitors wonder if the snakes are venomous. Yes, the zoo keeps venomous species like cobras and vipers, but they are housed in secure, locked enclosures with clear warning signs. The keepers use specialized handling tools and never enter the enclosure with a venomous snake without a second keeper present.
Another frequent question is whether the snakes are ever let out. They are not; they remain in their enclosures except for medical checks or when being moved to a quarantine area. Non-venomous snakes may be taken to the keeper talk, but always under supervision.
Costs and Tickets
As of 2024, a standard adult ticket to London Zoo costs around £30–£35 if bought online in advance, and children (3–15) cost roughly £20–£25. Under-3s are free. Tickets are cheaper if you book online rather than at the gate. The Reptile House is included in the price. If you want the “Reptile Encounter” experience, it costs an additional £25–£40 per person, depending on the season and group size.
ZSL members get free entry and discounts on experiences. You can also buy a gift ticket or a family ticket, which covers two adults and two children at a reduced rate.
Alternatives for Seeing Snakes in London
If you cannot make it to London Zoo, there are other places in London to see snakes:
- Natural History Museum – has a small live reptile collection, but it is not the main focus.
- Battersea Park Children’s Zoo – has a few snakes in its small animal house.
- London Aquarium (SEA LIFE) – mainly fish, but occasionally has a reptile exhibit.
However, London Zoo has the largest and most diverse snake collection in the city, and it is the only one with a dedicated historic Reptile House.
Safety and Ethical Considerations
ZSL follows strict animal welfare standards. All enclosures are designed to meet the animals’ physical and psychological needs, including hiding spots, climbing structures, and appropriate substrate. The zoo is accredited by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), which sets standards for care.
Visitors are asked not to tap on the glass, as this can stress the snakes. Flash photography is banned for the same reason. The zoo also discourages the purchase of exotic pets, as many snakes are taken from the wild illegally. Instead, they encourage supporting conservation through ZSL’s programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the snakes at London Zoo venomous?
Yes, the collection includes venomous species such as king cobras and gaboon vipers. They are kept in secure, locked enclosures with clear warning signs, and keepers follow strict safety protocols. Visitors cannot come into direct contact with them.
Can I touch a snake at London Zoo?
Yes, but only during the supervised “Reptile Encounter” experience, which involves a non-venomous species like a corn snake or a python. This is a paid add-on and must be booked in advance. During regular visits, you cannot touch any animal.
How often do the snakes eat?
It depends on the species and age. Young snakes may eat every 5–7 days, while large pythons and anacondas may eat only once every 2–4 weeks. The keepers adjust feeding based on each snake’s weight and health.
What is the biggest snake at London Zoo?
Typically the reticulated python or the green anaconda is the longest, reaching 5–6 metres. The zoo does not have any snake over 7 metres, as those are rare in captivity and require enormous enclosures.
Is the Reptile House open all year?
Yes, the Reptile House is open every day the zoo is open, which is all year except Christmas Day. However, some animals may be temporarily off-display for breeding or health reasons.
Do the snakes hibernate?
No, the snakes at London Zoo do not hibernate because the temperature and lighting are kept constant throughout the year. In the wild, some species would experience a winter cooling period, but the zoo maintains a stable environment to keep them active.
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