Ocean Park unveils new Reptile Pavilion, featuring endangered species

Ocean Park is unveiling its first-ever pavilion dedicated entirely to reptiles, featuring nearly 20 species.

From endangered "living fossils" which have been particularly valuable for scientists studying reptile evolution to colour-changing chameleons, the park hopes the new pavilion helps visitors see these "cold-blooded creatures" in a different light.

The new Reptile Territory opening this Friday showcases nearly 20 species of reptiles.

Among them is the Chinese crocodile lizard, a critically endangered species, first discovered in Guangxi, China.

Chinese crocodile lizard

Its nickname as a "living fossil" comes not because it can remain perfectly still on a branch -- but because the species has existed for more than 100 million years.

But when danger strikes, it can hide in the water for up to half an hour.

Then there's panther chameleon from Madagascar.

Its two eyes can move independently, giving it an almost 360-degree view of its surroundings.

Panther chameleon

This blue-tongued skink may look intimidating but it is non-venomous.

Its vivid blue tongue is to startle predators -- and hopefully buy itself enough time to make an escape.

Blue-tongued skink

Some of these reptiles were confiscated by authorities during enforcement operations against illegal animal trading.

General Curator, Zoological Operations & Conservation, Ocean Park PHILIP WONG: "Our conservation and education display as well as our animal caretakers' talk, we aim to raise public awareness about the specialist skills for animal husbandry and the negative impact of the illegal trading of protected animal species."

Unveiling ceremony

If you want some closer encounters, a rotating lineup of these star reptiles will make special appearances here alongside their caretakers at scheduled daily time slots.

Visitors can also take part in interactive Q&A sessions with caretakers -- learning about everything from the reptiles' everyday habits to some of their strangest secrets.

Q&A sessions with caretakers