Frequently Asked Questions

Here you’ll find answers to some of our most common questions about our reptile shop, animals, supplies, services and care advice. If you have a question that isn’t answered below, feel free to contact us and our team will be happy to help.

Where is Lotus Exotics located?

Lotus Exotics is a reptile and exotic pet shop based in Gravel Hill, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, on the outskirts of London.

We welcome customers by appointment for reptile collections, animal viewings, advice, and purchases. Whether you are looking for a new reptile, reptile supplies, or expert husbandry advice, our team is here to help.

Can you rehome my reptile?

Yes, Lotus Exotics offers a reptile rehoming service for animals that need a new home.

Every surrender request is reviewed individually based on available space, the species involved and our ability to provide the correct long-term care. Where possible, we help find suitable new homes for reptiles and exotic animals that can no longer be cared for.

If you need to rehome a snake, lizard, tortoise or other exotic pet, please contact us for more information.

What types of reptiles do you sell?

We regularly offer a variety of reptiles and exotic animals for sale, including:

  • Snakes

  • Lizards

  • Geckos

  • Tortoises

  • Amphibians

  • Other exotic species (availability varies)

Popular species include:

  • Royal pythons

  • Corn snakes

  • Bearded dragons

  • Crested geckos

  • Leopard geckos

Our available animals change regularly, so please check our reptile listings or contact us for current availability.

Do you sell feeder insects and frozen food?

Yes. We stock a range of reptile feeders suitable for many different species.

Our most popular live feeders include:

  • Crickets

  • Locusts

  • Mealworms

  • Morio worms

  • Dubia roaches

We also supply frozen feeders, including:

  • Mice

  • Rats

  • Chicks

We stock additional reptile food products and supplements to help provide a balanced diet for your animals.

Do you sell reptile supplies and enclosures?

Yes, Lotus Exotics stocks a wide range of reptile equipment and supplies.

We can help you find the correct setup, including:

  • Reptile vivariums and enclosures

  • Heat lamps and heating equipment

  • Thermostats

  • UVB lighting

  • Substrates

  • Hides and décor

  • Water bowls

  • Supplements

  • Habitat accessories

Whether you are setting up your first reptile enclosure or upgrading an existing habitat, we can provide advice on choosing the right equipment for your species.

Can I handle reptiles before purchasing?

In many cases, yes. We understand that choosing a reptile is an important decision, and handling an animal can help you understand its temperament and behaviour.

Handling is always carried out responsibly and depends on:

  • The species

  • The individual animal

  • Staff availability

  • The animal’s welfare needs

Some species, such as chameleons, are more sensitive to handling and should generally be observed rather than regularly handled.

For hygiene and animal safety, we ask customers to sanitise their hands before and after handling.

Do you offer a guarantee on reptiles?

Yes. We offer a 7-day health guarantee on reptiles purchased from Lotus Exotics, provided the animal is kept in suitable conditions and correct husbandry requirements are followed.

We are committed to supporting our customers and will work with you if any concerns arise after purchase.

Do you offer reptile health checks?

While we have animal qualifications and extensive reptile experience, we do not provide veterinary services.

Our team can offer guidance on common husbandry concerns, including:

  • Feeding issues

  • Shedding problems

  • Behaviour changes

  • Habitat improvements

  • General care advice

If a veterinary assessment is required, we can recommend experienced exotic animal vets.

Can I return or exchange a reptile?

Due to the nature of live animals, we do not generally accept returns or exchanges.

However, if you are no longer able to care for your reptile, please contact us. We may be able to assist with rehoming and finding the animal a suitable new home.

Refunds are considered where an animal is found to have a health issue covered under our guarantee policy.

Do you offer reptile advice for beginners?

Absolutely. We welcome new keepers and believe education is one of the most important parts of responsible reptile ownership.

Before purchasing a reptile, we can help you understand:

  • The correct enclosure size

  • Heating and lighting requirements

  • Feeding

  • Handling

  • Long-term care needs

Our aim is to help every reptile find the right home and every keeper feel confident caring for their animal.