Top 5 Most Fascinating Reptiles You’ll Find at Dobs Pets & Exotics

Ireland has seen a growing interest in exotic pets, and reptiles are leading the way. From snakes and lizards to unique geckos, these incredible animals are capturing the hearts of pet enthusiasts nationwide. At Dobs Pets & Exotics in Cork, we stock some of the most fascinating reptiles available in Ireland — and each one comes with its own unique personality, beauty, and care requirements.

Here are five reptiles you’ll want to meet.

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1. Leopard Gecko 🦎

One of the most popular reptiles in Ireland, leopard geckos are small, hardy, and easy to care for. They’re perfect for beginners, thanks to their calm temperament and straightforward diet of insects. Their stunning spotted patterns make them stand out in any enclosure.

Why they’re fascinating:

• They “smile” thanks to their natural face shape.

• They don’t need UV lighting, making them easy to care for.

• They come in a huge variety of colours (called morphs).

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2. Corn Snake 🐍

Corn snakes are among the friendliest and most manageable snakes, which makes them an excellent choice for first-time snake owners in Ireland. Their striking orange-and-red patterns are instantly recognisable.

Why they’re fascinating:

• They can live 15–20 years in captivity.

• They’re skilled escape artists (secure tanks are a must!).

• They’re docile and rarely aggressive.

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3. Bearded Dragon 🐉

Often called “beardies,” these lizards are packed with personality. Bearded dragons are known to interact with their owners, even showing quirky behaviours like arm-waving and head-bobbing.

Why they’re fascinating:

• They thrive on both insects and vegetables.

• They love basking and need strong UV lighting.

• They often recognise their owners and become tame with handling.

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4. Crested Gecko 🌿

Native to New Caledonia, crested geckos are a fan favourite at Dobs. Their wide eyes, sticky toes, and “eyelash” crests give them a unique look that makes them a standout reptile.

Why they’re fascinating:

• They can climb glass and vertical surfaces.

• They don’t need insects every day — powdered diets are popular.

• They’re excellent for smaller, bioactive enclosures.

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5. Royal Python (Ball Python) 🐍

For snake lovers, the royal python is an absolute gem. Known for their calm nature and beautiful patterns, these snakes are larger than corn snakes but still manageable for many owners.

Why they’re fascinating:

• They curl into a ball when stressed (hence the name).

• They come in dozens of morphs with striking colours.

• They’re long-lived, with lifespans up to 30 years.