Meet Quetzal Dwyer

The Founder and Visionary of Reptilandia - Reptile Lagoon. Born in New York City with a lifelong passion for reptiles, Quetzal Dwyer has spent decades dedicated to the study, conservation, and care of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. Splitting much of his life between the United States and Costa Rica, he founded the renowned Parque Reptilandia—an outdoor reptile zoo and breeding facility—where he contributed to groundbreaking research on reptiles from Central America and the Pacific Islands.

Quetzal has authored over 30 scientific papers, documenting new country records for Guatemala, Panamá, and Costa Rica, while also pioneering first-time captive breeding efforts for several rare species. His work has earned recognition worldwide, including collaborations with major wildlife productions like Discovery Channel and BBC.

In 2022, Quetzal brought his expertise and vision to Johnson City, Texas, where he founded Reptilandia – Reptile Lagoon, continuing his conservation efforts alongside his loyal “bodyguard,” a sausage dog named Serena. His work remains focused on education, research, and inspiring a greater appreciation for reptiles, their biology, and their role in ecosystems around the globe.