Following the success of my blog reviewing Toymany‘s12-Piece Frog Figurines Playset, I thought it was time to review another of their sets. This time is the 12-Piece Reptile Figurine Playset, which contains more than just reptiles. As with the frogs, this set is a captivating collection of cold-blooded animals designed to engage children and collectors alike with its realistic and diverse assortment of species, helping to establish some positive exposure to the species some people tend to fear. As its name suggests, the set includes twelve extremely well-crafted figurines, which we will explore in more detail below. Each figure is made from durable, non-toxic PVC and showcases lifelike textures, dynamic poses, and accurate colouration, enhancing both play and educational value (which is in my mind the most important aspect).
Axolotl
The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a critically endangered species of salamander native to the freshwater lakes and canals of Mexico, particularly Lake Xochimilco. Unlike most amphibians (therefore it isn’t reptile), axolotls retain their larval features throughout their lives, a phenomenon called neoteny, which means they keep their external gills and remain aquatic even as adults. Known for their feathery gill stalks, wide heads, and perpetual smiles, axolotls come in various colours, including wild-type, leucistic (pink with red gills as in the Toymany example), and albino. They are also remarkable for their ability to regenerate entire limbs, spinal cords, and even parts of their hearts and brains. Due to habitat loss, pollution, and invasive species, wild axolotls are facing serious threats, although they remain widely studied and bred in captivity for research and as exotic pets. There aren’t many model salamanders available, but this axolotl from Toymany helps to do the species justice with its fine detail and life-like appearance.
Bearded dragon
The bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is a popular and charismatic lizard native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. Named for the spiny, beard-like scales under its throat, which can puff out and darken when the dragon feels threatened or is displaying dominance, this reptile is known for its docile temperament and expressive behaviours. Bearded dragons are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet of insects, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. They are diurnal, enjoying basking in warm environments during the day, and often exhibit unique behaviours like head-bobbing, arm-waving, and even changing colour slightly to regulate body temperature. Due to their hardy nature, ease of care, and friendly temperament, bearded dragons are among the most commonly kept reptile pets in the world. The Toymany model is of a bearded dragon feeding, which is why it looks like it is staring at the ground. Should have included some food for it in these photos.
Black caiman
The black caiman (Melanosuchus niger) is the largest species of caiman and one of the biggest predators in the Amazon Basin, capable of growing over 4.8 metres (16 feet) in length. Named for its dark, almost black scales, which provide excellent camouflage in murky waters, this powerful reptile is a top predator in its ecosystem. It inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes, and flooded forests, where it preys on fish, birds, reptiles, and even large mammals. Despite its fearsome reputation, the black caiman plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Once heavily hunted for its skin, the species faced significant population declines, but conservation efforts and legal protections have helped it recover in many areas. Today, it remains a symbol of the Amazon’s rich biodiversity and the importance of protecting its complex ecosystems. The texture on the skin of this model is spot on!
Black widow
The black widow spider (Latrodectus mactans) is one of the most recognisable and venomous spiders in North America, known for the female’s shiny black body and distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of her abdomen. Despite their fearsome reputation, black widows are generally shy and bite only in self-defence when disturbed. Their venom is a potent neurotoxin that can cause muscle pain, cramps, and other systemic symptoms in humans, though fatalities are extremely rare with modern medical care. Black widows build irregular, tangled webs in dark, sheltered places such as woodpiles, sheds, and basements. Males are smaller, less venomous, and often live near females without incident, although the species earned its name from the occasionally observed (but not typical) behaviour of females consuming males after mating. This model is pretty accurate, despite the tricky manufacturing process of reproducing those spindly legs.
Frilled lizard
The frilled lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii), also known as the frill-necked lizard, is a striking reptile native to northern Australia and southern New Guinea. It is best known for the large, colourful frill around its neck, which it can rapidly expand to startle predators or assert dominance. This dramatic display, often accompanied by hissing and an upright posture, makes the frilled lizard appear much larger and more threatening. Primarily arboreal and insectivorous, it spends much of its time in trees but will descend to the ground to hunt or bask. When threatened, it may also flee on its hind legs, creating a comical yet effective escape. Despite its fierce appearance during displays, the frilled lizard is generally shy and relies on camouflage and avoidance in the wild. The thrill of Dilophosaurus in Jurassic Park was inspired by this lizard, although there is no evidence for it in the fossil record. You can probably see why in the photos below, it makes the frilled lizard slightly more intimidating when threatened.
Galápagos giant tortoise
The Galápagos giant tortoise (Chelonoidis niger) is one of the largest and longest-living tortoise species in the world, endemic to the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. These slow-moving herbivores can weigh over 200 kilos and live well beyond 100 years, with some individuals reaching ages of over 150. Their massive domed shells and sturdy, elephant-like legs are perfectly adapted for life in the rugged volcanic terrain of the islands. There are several subspecies, each adapted to different islands and environmental conditions, some with saddleback shells for reaching higher vegetation, and others with domed shells suited to grazing. Once severely threatened by overhunting and introduced predators, conservation efforts have helped revive many populations, making the Galápagos giant tortoise an enduring symbol of wildlife conservation and evolutionary biology. Due to my love of Darwin and his voyage on the HMS Beagle, this is probably my favourite model in this set.
Indian red scorpion
The Indian red scorpion (Hottentotta tamulus) is a highly venomous scorpions, native to India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and parts of Pakistan. Recognisable by its reddish-orange body and slender pincers, this small but formidable arachnid typically inhabits tropical and subtropical regions, often hiding under rocks, logs, or debris. Despite its modest size (usually around 5 to 8 centimetres long) its sting can be extremely dangerous, especially to children, causing symptoms such as intense pain, vomiting, sweating, and in severe cases, cardiovascular complications. Though fatalities are rare with modern medical care, the Indian red scorpion’s sting is a serious health concern in rural areas where access to treatment may be limited. As a result, it is both feared and respected, playing a notable role in regional folklore and public health discussions. Toymany haven’t specified this is the exact species but given my limited knowledge of scorpions, I think they’ve done a great job if this is the case (even if it isn’t a reptile).
Jackson’s chameleon
Jackson’s chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii) is a distinctive species of chameleon native to the mountainous forests of Kenya and Tanzania. Easily recognised by the three horn-like projections on the heads of males (resembling those of a Triceratops), this species is often called the ‘three-horned chameleon’. You can probably tell why! Females typically lack horns or have much smaller ones. Jackson’s chameleons are arboreal, spending most of their lives in trees, where their prehensile tails, zygodactylous feet, and colour-changing abilities help them navigate and blend into their environment or communicate with one another. They feed on insects, using their long, sticky tongues to capture prey with impressive speed and accuracy. Known for their slow, deliberate movements and calm demeanour, they are popular among reptile enthusiasts and have been introduced to other regions, such as Hawaii, where they have established wild populations. Jackson’s chameleon is one of my favourite species of chameleon, with this figurine working well to capture the posture of this species.
Komodo Dragon
The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the largest living species of lizard, native to a few Indonesian islands, including Komodo, Rinca, Flores, and Gili Motang. These powerful reptiles can grow up to 3 metres (10 feet long) and weigh over 65 kilos. As apex predators, Komodo dragons have a keen sense of smell, sharp claws, and serrated teeth that allow them to hunt a variety of prey, including deer and water buffalo. They also possess venom glands that help subdue their targets by inducing shock and preventing blood clotting. Despite their fearsome nature, Komodo dragons are vulnerable due to habitat loss and limited distribution, and they are currently classified as endangered. This figurine may not be life-size but it does do a great job of representing this species.
Leopard gecko
The leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) is a small, nocturnal lizard native to the arid and rocky regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Iran. Known for its distinctive spotted pattern and movable eyelids (unusual among geckos), it is a popular pet due to its docile nature and ease of care. Leopard geckos are insectivores, feeding mainly on crickets, mealworms, and other small insects. Unlike many other gecko species, they have clawed toes instead of adhesive pads, making them ground-dwelling rather than adept climbers. They can also detach their tails as a defence mechanism and regrow them to a certain extent over time. Leopard geckos come in a number of different designer morphs within the pet trade, which have questionable ethical origins, so it is great to see Toymany stick with a wild-type colour pattern.
Solomon Island leaf frog
The Solomon Island leaf frog (Ceratobatrachus guentheri), also known as the triangle frog or Solomon Island eyelash frog, is a terrestrial amphibian native to the rainforests of the Solomon Islands. Noted for its broad, triangular head and cryptic colouration that mimics dead leaves, this frog is a master of camouflage on the forest floor. It is primarily nocturnal and preys on insects and other small invertebrates. Unlike many frogs, it does not have a tadpole stage; instead, it undergoes direct development, hatching from eggs as miniature adults. The Solomon Island leaf frog is valued for its unusual appearance and intriguing behaviour, making it a subject of interest among herpetologists and exotic pet enthusiasts alike. As you can probably tell, this species isn’t a reptile either but we’ll let Toymany off because it is such a cool species!
Spectacled cobra
The spectacled cobra (Naja naja), also known as the Indian cobra, is a highly venomous snake native to the Indian subcontinent. It is easily recognised by the distinctive hood it flares when threatened, which often displays a spectacle-shaped pattern, giving the species its common name. This cobra is revered and feared in equal measure, frequently featured in Indian mythology and folklore, and is commonly associated with snake charmers. Spectacled cobras inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and agricultural fields to urban areas, where they prey on rodents, frogs, and other small animals. Their venom contains powerful neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure in severe cases, though antivenom is widely available in regions where they are common. The figurine by Toymany captures the species as it strikes, which I suspect was chosen to balance the model. However, I would have preferred an upright pose – you can’t always please everyone!
Just like the frog set, Toymany’s reptiles figurine set is a great tool for stimulating imaginative play, enhancing knowledge of wildlife, and promoting environmental awareness among all audiences. I am amazed at the level of detail that these figurines have while also being extremely affordable. My only complaint is that only eight of the twelve figurines are reptiles, so perhaps this should be called the ectotherm set instead. Each of the figurines has a very dynamic pose and are true to life. If you’re thinking about purchasing them, you can buy them all as a complete set, or individually depending on your needs. As an extra special thank you, use code TMAFAS10 at the check-out to get 10% of your order. A video review is coming soon, once I have had a chance to edit the footage.
If you liked this post and enjoy reading this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon where you will also gain access to exclusive content. When buying toys through Mojo Fun, don’t forget to use the coupon code SJRA10 at the checkout for 10% off! Likewise, when ordering through Toymany, use code TMAFAS10 for 10% off your order. Thank you.
