Sioux Falls Reptile Zoo Theft: Everything That Slithers is Safe

One of Sioux Falls’ most unique attractions had a night that was anything but cold-blooded earlier this week.

The Reptile Adventure Zoo, located at 2501 West Russell Street, was the target of a late-night break-in just after 11:00 PM on Monday, February 9. While the incident may sound like the plot of a low-budget crime thriller, the good news is that all the scaly residents are safe and sound, still slithering happily in their enclosures.

According to Dakota News Now, the suspect smashed a window to gain entry, briefly dropping temperatures inside the building. That meant the reptiles experienced a short-lived cold snap, but thankfully, none were injured or missing. So no, there isn’t a rogue iguana running amok somewhere in Sioux Falls, well, at least not that we know of.

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Police say the suspect made off with the store’s cash register and the money inside. Surveillance footage reportedly shows a man breaking the window around 11:10 PM, climbing inside, and later leaving with the register in hand. Authorities are still investigating and have not yet released the suspect’s identity.

The Reptile Adventure Zoo has been open since fall 2025 and has quickly become a favorite stop for curious locals and reptile enthusiasts alike. Part zoo and part specialty pet store, it’s home to everything from laid-back turtles and curious lizards to snakes, tortoises, chameleons, and even alligators. In other words, if it crawls, creeps, or flicks its tongue dramatically, you’ll probably find it there.

The business is housed in the former South Dakota Driver’s License Exam Station on Russell Street.

For now, Sioux Falls police continue to search for the suspect. Meanwhile, the reptiles are back to doing what they do best: lounging under heat lamps.

10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Dakota

Cities on the east and west side of the Missouri River have made the latest list of South Dakota's Most Dangerous Cities for 2021.

Roadsnacks recently released its most 'Dangerous Cities' list and here in The Mount Rushmore state there are a few surprises, especially at the top. To determine the most dangerous cities in the state, Roadsnacks looked at the FBI's report on the latest violent crime, along with property crime statistics.

And surprisingly, the town with the most murders per capita in the state has less than 3,000 residents. Take a look at the list below.

For a look at the detailed list, visit roadsnacks.com Story Source: Roadsncaks

Source: Sioux Falls Reptile Zoo Heist: No Missing Reptiles, Just A Stolen Register