Reptile Gardens confirmed that several reptiles died in a structure fire early Friday morning.
The blaze was reported around 1:30 a.m. in a detached agricultural shelter. Firefighters contained the flames before they spread to nearby vegetation or buildings. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
Curator of Animals Terry Phillip said the building housed African spur-thighed and red-footed tortoises, along with American alligators from the summer show. All were lost in the fire. Other alligators in separate facilities were unharmed.
The attraction re-opened the Sky Dome and Show building and will be open from 9am until 3pm daily through November 30.
Multiple departments responded, including Rockerville, Hill City, Whispering Pines, Rapid City, and Battle Creek fire crews.
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