Lizards, toads and creepy crawlies were up for grabs at Ray Park on Wednesday.
Children were told about the exotic inhabitants of the James Leal Centre before getting the chance to handle some of them.
The animals, including a European great toad, a crested gecko, a tiger salamander and an Indian stick insect, live at the centre.
The crested gecko, from New Caledonia, was thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994.
Ray Park, off Snakes Lane East in Woodford Green, also has an outdoor classroom, cafe, outdoor gym and play area.
Wildlife workshops run at the James Leal Centre during school holidays.
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