🦎 Top 3 Reptile Rescues in Colorado You Should Know About 🐢
If you’re passionate about reptiles—or want to find the perfect scaly companion—it’s important to support reputable reptile rescues that provide excellent care, education, and adoption opportunities. Here are Colorado’s top three reptile rescues, featured in the Optimal Exotics directory:
1. Reptile & Amphibian Center of the Rockies (RACR)
📍 Primarily Serving Northern Colorado (Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley)
Founded in 2015, this 501c3 nonprofit specializes in reptile rescue, rehabilitation, and education for reptiles and amphibians. They accept surrendered pets, ensure medical and behavioral care, and place them in knowledgeable adoptive homes. Their robust outreach includes school programs, community events, and conservation partnerships. If your looking to adopt a pet or even to volunteer this is definitely the place for you.
At the time of writing this I am on the RACR board, but I do not receive any compensation for promoting their business in this post.
Why it stands out:
- Adoption consultations and rescue efforts for both native and exotic herptile species
- Education-focused, with regular outreach events
- Strong conservation ethic and collaborative programs
2. Colorado Reptile Humane Society (CoRHS)
📍 Near Denver Metro (Longmont, CO)
A longstanding rescue dedicated to improving the welfare of reptiles and amphibians through rescue, rehabilitation, and public education. Open by appointment only, CoRHS emphasizes proper care and habitat standards. They guide adopters step-by-step—from application and habitat planning to final placement—ensuring lifelong success. If your looking to adopt a pet and support your local humane society CoRHS is the place to be.
Why it stands out:
- Deep emphasis on adopter education and support
- High standards for housing, UV lighting, diet, and veterinary care
- Structured adoption process ensures long-term commitment from caretakers
3. Randy’s Turtle Rescue
📍 Colorado-wide (specializing in chelonians)
Highlighted by Optimal Exotics as a Colorado-based facility, Randy’s is dedicated to turtle and tortoise rescue efforts. While less publicly documented online, its inclusion in the directory underscores its strong reputation in chelonian rehabilitation and adoption.
Why it stands out:
- Specialist in turtles and tortoises—niches often overlooked
- Provides sanctuary for surrendered or injured chelonians
- Likely strong underground support within local herpetology circles
Why These Rescues Matter
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Education & Outreach | Programs at Colorado Reptile Humane Society and Reptile & Amphibian Center highlight environment, behavior, and conservation. |
| Medical & Behavioral Care | All three rescues ensure surrendered animals receive health checks, treatment, and tailored rehabilitation. |
| Responsible Adoption | Applicants are vetted and guided—especially at CoRHS, helping ensure lifelong homes. |
Get Involved & Support
Here’s how you can help these valuable rescues:
- Adopt—Give a reptile a loving forever home.
- Foster—Support animals in temporary homes while awaiting adoption (Where Available)
- Volunteer or Donate—Time, supplies, and funds are always needed.
- Learn & Advocate—Join workshops, community outreach, and spread awareness to nourish public understanding and conservation.
Final Thoughts
Colorado is home to some truly outstanding reptile rescues. From the phenomenal support provided by the Reptile & Amphibian Center of the Rockies to the structured excellence of CoRHS and the specialized focus of Randy’s Turtle Rescue, these organizations are on the front lines of exotic animal welfare in our state.
By visiting their websites or reaching out directly, you can adopt, foster, volunteer, or support their mission—and help ensure every reptile and amphibian in need finds a safe, loving environment.
Ready to make a difference? Contact these rescues today—your next reptile friend is waiting for you!
