About
EP Exotics has been a fixture in El Paso's exotic pet scene for well over 15 years, earning a devoted following that keeps customers driving in from as far as Corpus Christi and Socorro. While the store's heart beats loudest for reptiles — snakes, leopard geckos, tortoises, and more — its freshwater fish section and aquarium supplies have carved out a loyal niche among local fishkeepers. Multiple reviewers note you can find everything needed to get a tank started, from equipment to livestock, and the store stocks supplies for axolotl owners alongside feeders like hopper mice and super worms for turtles and red-eared sliders.
The atmosphere is distinctly mom-and-pop, a welcome contrast to the PetSmarts and PetCos of the world. A large enclosure in the center of the store houses what one reviewer affectionately describes as a "very large and distinguished-looking fellow" who knows the value of a good napping spot. Tarantulas, frogs (including pixie frogs), corn snakes, and birds round out the menagerie, creating the kind of place where kids press their faces against glass and adults lose track of time.
What sets EP Exotics apart from the competition is the staff's genuine passion. The long-haired employee who patiently walks customers through snake species and helps with lizard tanks, Mayra who guided one family through a complete tortoise setup for Héctor and Tuco, Mike who makes sure every question gets answered — these aren't salespeople reading care sheets. They're animal people who happen to work retail.
The store's policy of making sure customers understand what they're buying before they purchase reflects an ethic of responsible pet ownership that runs deep here. Enclosures are consistently described as clean and well-maintained, with healthy, active animals — a stark difference from big-box stores where dead fish float uncollected. Prices are competitive, and the selection of reptile supplies, freshwater fish, amphibians, and feeders continues to expand.
For El Paso's exotic pet community, this is the local shop that earned its reputation one knowledgeable conversation at a time.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- ConsultationDelivery
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Over 15 years serving El Paso's exotic pet community
- Extensive freshwater fish and aquarium supplies alongside reptiles and amphibians
- Axolotl supplies and knowledgeable care guidance
- Passionately knowledgeable staff including reptile and tarantula specialists
- Clean, well-maintained enclosures with healthy animals
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Didn't have what I wanted, but they said they would get a new shipment. The next day, very friendly staff helpful.”
— Jude Singh3.0Edited 2 days ago“Love it!! Great customer service!!”
— baby jess silky5.0a week ago“Great staff, always friendly and helpful. Priced can’t be beat and their selection is constantly improving.”
— Sheena Keliher5.02 weeks ago“De lo mejor”
— randy Villalobos5.04 weeks ago“The best people, who know so much about what they are selling!! Beautiful animals!! Best service!!”
— Jennifer Jordan5.04 weeks ago“The slim guy with the really long hair is SUPER chill and so helpful, he’s such an animal guy you can tell he loves his job and fits right in with the atmosphere. He taught me so much on the different kinds of snakes and let me touch them, and was so patient with all my silly questions. The best kind of guy you’d come across. He even helped me with my lizard tank because I was too scared to do it. He’s the best literally no one like him!!!!”
— Diamond Clarke5.0a month ago“Fantastic selection of fish and other things available A+”
— Robert Rios5.0a month ago“Friendly staff and some cute creatures.”
— Amanda Park4.0a month ago“I have purchased from them over 15 years ago, and still stop in from time to time! Their animals are exceptional quality and then staff truly cares about what they do. Highly recommend!”
— Amanda5.0a month ago“Love love it cant say enough about the quality of this place and workers are amazing”
— gabriella dagayray5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (915) 757-7750 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting EP Exotics.