Strange Exotics - Medicine Hat

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I was also told by Neil and Zac to check out Strange Exotics in Medicine Hat. This shop was "already on my radar" as I had made arrangements some months ago to get them a nice Blue Base Crossback from the MerLion Dreamfish farm. I missed out on meeting Rob, the person in charge of the fish room, but everyone else on hand really made me feel welcome. I was very impressed by the professionalism of the staff and the care and detail that has gone into building out the store. I have never kept coral or salt water fish, but I have great respect for those people who do. I recognize healthy live stock when I see it and the salt water fish and corals were very healthy. Likewise the reptile section was extensive and meticulously put together. This store is true to its name. I asked if I could get a pink toed tarantula (a spider I got to handle in Brazil recently), and was told they could get me one if I wanted. On hand were a variety of other spiders and insects. And their live food section has to be seen to be believed. I have never seen anything like it.

Check this place out: https://www.strangeexotics.ca/

 

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I noted the diversity of supplies. Every category of product you can think of, they have it here in quantity, quality and variation. The shop struck me as a work in progress that was really building momentum. The enthusiasm of the staff was palpable.

 

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The fish room was in the final stages of renovation. I was impressed by the fact that most tanks had independent filtration and water systems. This is really important to prevent the spread of any kind of contagion. I was also happy to see the extensive use of terrestrial plants like pathos and monstera to naturally provide a healthy form of filtration in tanks. It also looks nice

 

[Cirrus]

I've rounded out the photos of this shop with a few additional photos taken of the surrounding neighbourhood. Strange Exotics is located in a historic part of Medicine Hat. They are actually across the street from the old CP Rail station, which is neat. There are some wonderful coffees shops and local shopping areas to check out. And some beautiful murals. Taken together, the Strange Exotics is a fantastic place to visit. I think the staff really know what they are doing and can likely find you anything you are looking for. And then you can go have a nice cup of coffee afterwards at a nearby cafe.