Zookeeper Exotics on Austin's north side is primarily an exotic animal destination — reptiles, birds, tarantulas, scorpions, and more — but it also carries a solid freshwater fish selection, live plants, springtails, and isopods that make it worth a stop for aquarium and vivarium hobbyists alike. The store has been a fixture in Austin for over 30 years, and the loyalty of its customer base speaks volumes: multiple reviewers mention returning for decades. The shop floor is packed with enclosures housing bearded dragons, snakes, frogs, tortoises, jumping spiders, and birds, all of which reviewers consistently describe as healthy and well-maintained.
For vivarium builders, Zookeeper stocks springtails, isopods, and bioactive-friendly plants at competitive prices, plus a range of enclosures — including used options at a discount. The feeder selection is one of the best in Austin, with live insects in various sizes, though a few customers note the roach feeder sizing could use expansion. Staff member Jillian gets name-dropped in review after review for her deep animal knowledge and genuine enthusiasm, especially with younger visitors.
The team takes a consultative approach — they'll steer you toward what your pet actually needs rather than just ringing up whatever you grab. One reviewer recounted a manager researching food options for a bearded dragon with allergies and following up with a phone call. That level of care extends to their boarding service: customers have trusted Zookeeper with their birds during emergencies and out-of-town trips, noting the birds in-store are healthy, vocal, and well-socialized.
The store isn't flashy — it's a working exotic pet shop with a no-nonsense layout — but the animal quality and staff expertise keep Austin's exotic pet community coming back. If you're building a bioactive vivarium, need quality feeders, or want to browse freshwater plants alongside some of Austin's most interesting exotic animals, Zookeeper Exotics delivers.
Thorn Foxworth
12 reviews
Owners are very nice and helpful. Pets are well taken care of and I've never gotten a pet that was sick from this shop
kait
19 reviews
jilian rocked! 🤟🤪
Zealand Hatch
892 reviews
Beautiful pets
T J61
3 reviews
This place is great to top up on small supplies and maybe even bring home a little tarantula friend, which ive done. Only downside is the lack of roach feeders, size wise, they only sell super tiny ones in those deli cups. And I need them biggins.
Alaisa Guereca
6 reviews
Been coming to zookeeper for years. They have a wide selection of exotic animals and are very knowledgeable and always happy to answer any questions. I got my bearded dragon from here 5 years ago and he is still very healthy. They also have the best feeders in town at the best prices.
Lorena Felix
17 reviews
It’s a good place with a lot of options if you want an exotic pet. They have tortoises, spiders, lizards, snakes, birds, frogs, scorpions… it’s easy to find, there are a lot of parking spots. And it’s good if you want to show to a kid about the exotic pets haha
Bryce Mcnealy
Absolutely amazing place that me and my family have been going to for animal necessities and exotics for over 30 years. The owner Daniel and various staff throughout the years have been wonderful people we have befriended and known for many years. I would absolutely recommend coming here for any exotic pets or supplies as it is the pretty much only one that is the best in Austin.
ZS.Hannah C
5 reviews
I’ve been going to Zookeepers since I moved to Austin and I love them. Everyone there is always so nice and there is SO MANY CUTE ANIMALS to see. ❤️. I started going bc it’s the only place in Austin that I know of to get live snake food, but I can never leave without saying hi to all the creatures first. I’m glad that you can see they are loved and well taken care of too.
Samantha Jade
83 reviews
I witnessed customers handling the guinea pigs and rabbits inappropriately, despite posted signs instructing otherwise. There appeared to be no staff supervision at the time, allowing individuals to open enclosure lids and handle the animals as they pleased. I also observed a young child holding a rabbit incorrectly, which could have resulted in serious injury to the animal. Overall, the situation was concerning and disappointing.
Misty Aleman
7 reviews
Hi, my name is Carmie, I love the service and the plants at the zookeeper place. And I have a fairy godmother who works there. Thanks for the candy machine. I also loved the sloth, but what happened to it? Where did it go? (Carmie, Age 9)
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (512) 453-8800 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Zookeeper Exotics.
Phone
(512) 453-8800Address
9012 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
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9012 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
February 7, 2026
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