60 minutes
Get ready for a lively and engaging encounter with some of nature’s most unusual creatures. From insects to tarantulas, and more! Led by an experienced wildlife handler with a passion for education and conservation, this bug and reptile experience invites participants to see these animals up close, learn how they live, and discover why they are far more important—and interesting—than many people expect. With a mix of demonstration, storytelling, and optional hands-on interaction, the session creates a relaxed space where curiosity is encouraged, and fears can be gently challenged. Whether you’re fascinated or a little unsure, you’ll leave with a fresh perspective and a memorable experience.
Each show lasts 60 minutes.
A sense of curiosity and wonder
Please Note: These shows feature live animals so please make sure children are supervised at all times. Please follow the instructions from the presenter.
!! During the booking process, you will be asked to sign a waiver. Please take a few minutes to read it carefully, as access to the event will only be granted once the waiver has been signed.
Children MUST be accompanied by an adult
5.00 p.m. Show (Children under 12)
The Green, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford, N39 VW40.
John Dunbar – Midlands Bug & Reptile Zoo
John Dunbar is a zoologist and lifelong exotic animal enthusiast with nearly 30 years of experience working with reptiles and invertebrates. His passion began with his first pet snake and has since taken him across the globe, travelling through South America, India, Indonesia, South-East Asia, Europe and North Africa to observe and study wildlife in their natural habitats.
John holds a degree in Biological & Biomedical Sciences from Maynooth University and previously worked at the Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, where he assisted in the care of over 450 venomous snakes and helped extract venom for biomedical research into next-generation antivenoms. ()
He later completed a PhD in Zoology at the University of Galway, specialising in venom systems and proteomics, with a research focus on spider venom, before undertaking postdoctoral field research on scorpions in Morocco funded by the Irish Research Council. ()
Today, John is working to establish a specialist reptile and invertebrate zoo in the Irish midlands, dedicated to conservation, education and helping the public better understand some of the world’s most fascinating — and often misunderstood — creatures.
Please be aware that photographs and videos are being taken during this event. These may be used for advertising, promotional, or marketing purposes by the facilitators.
By entering the festival grounds, you consent to your image being captured and used in such materials.
If you have concerns or prefer not to appear in any materials, please speak to a member of staff.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
This event is kindly supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport under their After Hours at the Museum scheme.
