{ "version": 2, "updated": "2026-08-06", "sourceNote": "Species facts for Teaching Zoo animal-list info sheets. Fun facts and selected taxonomy updates from Website_Animal_Fact_Sheets.xlsx (Aug 2026). Per-animal showEncounterCta/ctaText control the yellow notice independently of behind-the-scenes badges.", "animals": [ { "commonName": "Caracal", "scientificName": "Caracal caracal", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of India", "habitat": "Dry savanna, woodland, scrub, and semi-desert with cover for stalking prey", "diet": "Carnivore — small to medium mammals and birds", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Caracals are medium-sized wild cats named for the black tufts on their ears. Powerful hind legs help them leap to catch birds in midair, and their tawny coats blend into dry landscapes.", "atTheZoo": "Zoo Animal Technology students practice feline husbandry, enrichment, and positive-reinforcement training while learning how wild cats use stealth and athleticism to survive.", "funFact": "Ear tufts and powerful jumps" }, { "commonName": "Key Deer", "scientificName": "Odocoileus virginianus clavium", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Florida Keys (endemic subspecies of white-tailed deer)", "habitat": "Pine rocklands, hardwood hammocks, and mangrove edges in the lower Keys", "diet": "Herbivore — native plants, browse, and grasses", "status": "Endangered (U.S. Endangered Species Act)", "about": "Key deer are the smallest subspecies of white-tailed deer in North America. Habitat loss and vehicle strikes remain major threats in their limited island range.", "atTheZoo": "Because this animal lives behind the scenes, students focus on specialized ungulate care and Florida conservation stories that connect island habitat protection to species survival.", "funFact": "Smallest North American deer", "showEncounterCta": false, "ctaText": "Behind the scenes." }, { "commonName": "Matschie's tree kangaroo", "scientificName": "Dendrolagus matschiei", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea", "habitat": "Mountain tropical rainforest canopy", "diet": "Herbivore — leaves, fruits, and flowers", "status": "Endangered (IUCN)", "about": "Matschie's tree kangaroos are arboreal marsupials with long tails for balance and strong forelimbs for climbing. They are an important Species Survival Plan focus for AZA zoos.", "atTheZoo": "Students learn canopy-species husbandry and why the Teaching Zoo supports partners such as the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program protecting habitat in Papua New Guinea.", "funFact": "Can leap long distances" }, { "commonName": "Red ruffed lemur", "scientificName": "Varecia rubra", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Masoala Peninsula, northeastern Madagascar", "habitat": "Primary tropical rainforest canopy", "diet": "Mostly frugivore — fruit, nectar, and leaves", "status": "Critically Endangered (IUCN)", "about": "Red ruffed lemurs are loud, social primates that help disperse seeds through Madagascar's forests. Deforestation has pushed the species to critical endangerment.", "atTheZoo": "Guests and students explore lemur social behavior, vocal communication, and why protecting Madagascar's forests matters for primates found nowhere else on Earth.", "funFact": "Uses toothcomb for grooming" }, { "commonName": "Southern three-banded armadillo", "scientificName": "Tolypeutes matacus", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Parts of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay", "habitat": "Grasslands, savanna, and open woodland", "diet": "Insectivore — ants, termites, and other invertebrates", "status": "Near Threatened (IUCN)", "about": "Unlike most armadillos, three-banded armadillos can roll into a complete ball when threatened. Flexible armor plates make that defensive ball possible.", "atTheZoo": "Students practice careful handling protocols and enrichment that encourage natural foraging, while guests learn how armor and behavior protect xenarthrans in the wild.", "funFact": "Rolls into a complete ball", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Squirrel monkey", "scientificName": "Saimiri sciureus", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Tropical South America (Amazon basin and nearby forests)", "habitat": "Tropical rainforest canopy and edge habitats", "diet": "Omnivore — fruit, insects, flowers, and small vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN); local populations face pressure", "about": "Squirrel monkeys travel in large, energetic troops and rely on keen vision and coordination while moving through the canopy.", "atTheZoo": "Primate care rotations teach students about social housing, foraging enrichment, and interpreting troop dynamics in a managed setting.", "funFact": "Large social groups" }, { "commonName": "Visayan warty pig", "scientificName": "Sus cebifrons", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Visayan Islands, Philippines (highly reduced range)", "habitat": "Forest and forest edge; historically broader island habitats", "diet": "Omnivore — roots, fruits, invertebrates, and plant matter", "status": "Critically Endangered (IUCN)", "about": "Visayan warty pigs are among the world's most endangered pigs. Facial warts and a distinctive mane are more pronounced in adult males.", "atTheZoo": "The Teaching Zoo helps tell a Species Survival Plan story: how zoos cooperate to keep genetically important populations while habitat protection continues in the Philippines.", "funFact": "Males grow spiky mane" }, { "commonName": "White handed gibbon", "scientificName": "Hylobates lar", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Southeast Asia, including parts of Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Malaysia, and Sumatra", "habitat": "Tropical and subtropical rainforest canopy", "diet": "Mostly frugivore — fruit, leaves, insects, and flowers", "status": "Endangered (IUCN)", "about": "White-handed gibbons brachiate through the canopy using long arms and form strong pair bonds. Their morning songs help defend territory.", "atTheZoo": "Students study ape locomotion, vocal behavior, and the husbandry needed for arboreal primates, connecting exhibit design to wild canopy life.", "funFact": "Brachiates and sings duets" }, { "commonName": "White-throated capuchin", "scientificName": "Cebus capucinus", "class": "Mammal", "range": "Central America into northwestern South America", "habitat": "Tropical forests from canopy to understory", "diet": "Omnivore — fruit, insects, nuts, and small animals", "status": "Vulnerable (IUCN; taxonomy and assessments vary by population)", "about": "Capuchins are highly intelligent New World monkeys known for tool use, problem-solving, and complex social relationships.", "atTheZoo": "Training and enrichment sessions show how cognitive challenge supports welfare, giving Zoo Animal Technology students hands-on primate behavior experience.", "funFact": "Important seed disperser" }, { "commonName": "Dyeing poison dart frog", "scientificName": "Dendrobates tinctorius", "class": "Amphibian", "range": "Guiana Shield region of northeastern South America", "habitat": "Humid tropical rainforest floor and low vegetation", "diet": "Insectivore — small invertebrates such as ants and mites", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Bright colors warn predators of toxicity in the wild. Captive frogs are not dangerous in the same way because their toxins come from wild diets.", "atTheZoo": "Students learn amphibian humidity, biosecurity, and why colorful frogs are powerful ambassadors for rainforest conservation and the pet-trade conversation." }, { "commonName": "Green and black poison dart frog", "scientificName": "Dendrobates auratus", "class": "Amphibian", "range": "Central America and northwestern South America; introduced in Hawaii", "habitat": "Humid tropical forests near the ground and low plants", "diet": "Insectivore — tiny invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Patterns of green and black vary widely among populations. Like other dart frogs, wild toxicity is linked to diet rather than being manufactured by the frog alone.", "atTheZoo": "Close-up amphibian care teaches microscopic husbandry details—water quality, temperature, and careful observation—that future keepers use every day." }, { "commonName": "Bald eagle", "scientificName": "Haliaeetus leucocephalus", "class": "Bird", "range": "North America, especially near large water bodies", "habitat": "Coasts, rivers, and lakes with tall roost and nest trees", "diet": "Carnivore — primarily fish, plus waterbirds and carrion", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN); recovered under U.S. Endangered Species Act", "about": "Bald eagles are a conservation success story after pesticide bans and legal protection helped populations rebound across the United States.", "atTheZoo": "Raptor programming highlights recovery science, fish-eating adaptations, and respectful viewing of birds that often arrive through wildlife rehabilitation pathways.", "funFact": "Huge nests and shared parenting" }, { "commonName": "Barred owl", "scientificName": "Strix varia", "class": "Bird", "range": "Eastern North America; expanding in the Pacific Northwest", "habitat": "Mature forests near water with dense canopy cover", "diet": "Carnivore — small mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Barred owls are known for their distinctive \"who-cooks-for-you\" call and for hunting more by sound and sight in woodland habitats than by long-distance soaring.", "atTheZoo": "Students practice raptor welfare routines and help guests understand nocturnal adaptations, silent flight, and Florida forest ecology.", "funFact": "Nearly silent flight" }, { "commonName": "Blue-winged Teal", "scientificName": "Spatula discors", "class": "Bird", "range": "Breeds across North America; winters into the Caribbean and South America", "habitat": "Shallow wetlands, marshes, and pond edges", "diet": "Omnivore — aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Blue-winged teal are small dabbling ducks that migrate long distances and rely on healthy wetland stopover sites.", "atTheZoo": "Waterfowl care introduces students to wetland ecology, flock dynamics, and how seasonal migrants depend on conserved marshes." }, { "commonName": "Cattle Egret", "scientificName": "Bubucus ibis", "class": "Bird", "range": "Nearly worldwide in warm regions after a remarkable range expansion", "habitat": "Grasslands, pastures, wetlands, and agricultural fields", "diet": "Carnivore — insects and other small animals flushed by grazers", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Cattle egrets often forage near livestock, catching insects stirred up by moving animals. They nested first in the Americas only in the 20th century.", "atTheZoo": "Guests compare egret foraging strategies with other wading birds and learn how adaptable species respond to changing landscapes." }, { "commonName": "East African Grey Crowned Crane", "scientificName": "Balearica regulorum gibbericeps", "class": "Bird", "range": "Eastern and southern Africa (grey crowned crane range)", "habitat": "Wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural edges", "diet": "Omnivore — seeds, grains, insects, and small vertebrates", "status": "Endangered (IUCN; grey crowned crane)", "about": "Grey crowned cranes are famous for golden crest feathers and dancing courtship displays. Wetland loss and illegal trade threaten wild populations.", "atTheZoo": "Crane care and guest talks emphasize wetland conservation and the cultural importance of crowned cranes across parts of Africa.", "funFact": "Courtship dances" }, { "commonName": "Emu", "scientificName": "Dromaius novaehollandiae", "class": "Bird", "range": "Australia", "habitat": "Open woodland, scrub, and grassland across much of Australia", "diet": "Omnivore — plants, seeds, fruits, and insects", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Emus are the world's second-tallest living birds. They are flightless but can run at high speeds, and males incubate the eggs.", "atTheZoo": "Students learn ratite husbandry and share how flightless birds evolved different solutions to movement, nesting, and predator avoidance.", "funFact": "Male raises chicks" }, { "commonName": "Fulvous whistling duck", "scientificName": "Dendrocygna bicolor", "class": "Bird", "range": "Tropical and subtropical wetlands in the Americas, Africa, and Asia", "habitat": "Freshwater marshes, ponds, and rice fields", "diet": "Mostly herbivore — aquatic plants and seeds", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Named for whistling calls, these long-legged ducks often perch and nest in different sites than typical dabbling ducks.", "atTheZoo": "Waterfowl exhibits help students compare feeding styles and explain why Florida wetlands support both resident and migratory ducks." }, { "commonName": "Golden conure", "scientificName": "Guaruba guarouba", "class": "Bird", "range": "Amazonian Brazil", "habitat": "Tropical rainforest canopy and forest edge", "diet": "Mostly frugivore and granivore — fruits, seeds, and flowers", "status": "Vulnerable (IUCN)", "about": "Golden conures are brilliant yellow parrots that nest in tree cavities and form noisy social groups. Habitat loss and trapping historically reduced numbers.", "atTheZoo": "Psittacine care teaches dietary diversity, foraging enrichment, and why cavity-nesting parrots need standing dead wood and intact forest.", "funFact": "Flocks up to 30 birds" }, { "commonName": "Guam rail", "scientificName": "Hypotaenidia owstoni", "class": "Bird", "range": "Historically Guam; maintained in conservation breeding programs and reintroduction sites", "habitat": "Forest, scrub, and edge habitats on Guam", "diet": "Omnivore — invertebrates, seeds, and plant matter", "status": "Critically Endangered / Extinct in the Wild historically; recovery ongoing", "about": "The Guam rail nearly vanished after the brown tree snake invasion. Captive breeding and translocation are central to its recovery story.", "atTheZoo": "Because rails often live behind the scenes, students study intensive recovery-program husbandry and share one of AZA's best-known island conservation lessons.", "funFact": "Flightless KoKo bird" }, { "commonName": "Guinea turaco", "scientificName": "Tauraco persa", "class": "Bird", "range": "Southern and eastern Africa (Knysna / green turaco complex)", "habitat": "Evergreen and coastal forests", "diet": "Mostly frugivore — fruits and berries", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Turacos have unique copper-based green and red feather pigments. Crested silhouettes and rich calls make them standout forest birds.", "atTheZoo": "Avian keepers highlight fruit-based diets, softbill care, and how forest fruit specialists move seeds through African woodlands.", "funFact": "Red wing feathers" }, { "commonName": "Hawk-headed parrot", "scientificName": "Deroptyus accipitrinus", "class": "Bird", "range": "Amazon Basin of South America", "habitat": "Tropical rainforest canopy", "diet": "Frugivore and granivore — fruits, seeds, and nuts", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Hawk-headed parrots can raise a fan of neck feathers into a dramatic ruff, a display used in communication and defense.", "atTheZoo": "Students learn parrot body-language reading and enrichment that supports natural manipulation and foraging behaviors.", "funFact": "Raises colorful fan feathers" }, { "commonName": "Kookaburra", "scientificName": "Dacelo novaeguineae", "class": "Bird", "range": "Eastern Australia; introduced to parts of Western Australia and New Zealand's nearby islands historically", "habitat": "Open woodland and forest edge", "diet": "Carnivore — insects, small vertebrates, and other prey", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Laughing kookaburras are large kingfishers famous for chorus calls that sound like human laughter and help defend family territories.", "atTheZoo": "Guest experiences often focus on hunting adaptations and cooperative family life, while students refine raptor-adjacent softbill care skills.", "funFact": "Famous laughing call" }, { "commonName": "Peafowl", "scientificName": "Pavo cristatus", "class": "Bird", "range": "Native to the Indian subcontinent; widely kept worldwide", "habitat": "Forest edge, scrub, and farmland mosaics in the native range", "diet": "Omnivore — seeds, insects, plants, and small animals", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Indian peafowl males display iridescent trains in courtship. Despite the showy plumage, birds remain alert ground-foragers.", "atTheZoo": "Free-roaming or exhibit peafowl help students discuss domestication history, sexual selection, and guest-wildlife etiquette." }, { "commonName": "Redhead", "scientificName": "Aythya americana", "class": "Bird", "range": "Breeds in northern North America; winters in southern U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean", "habitat": "Lakes, marshes, and coastal bays", "diet": "Omnivore — aquatic plants and invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Redheads are diving ducks. Males have a copper-red head and gray body; females are browner and more camouflaged.", "atTheZoo": "Comparing dabblers and divers helps students explain wetland food webs and bill-and-body adaptations for different feeding styles." }, { "commonName": "Roseate spoonbill", "scientificName": "Platalea ajaja", "class": "Bird", "range": "Southeastern United States through the Caribbean and South America", "habitat": "Shallow coastal wetlands, mangroves, and mudflats", "diet": "Carnivore — small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Roseate spoonbills sweep spatula-shaped bills side to side to snap up prey in murky water. Pink plumage comes from carotenoids in their diet.", "atTheZoo": "Spoonbill feeding programs and talks connect pink plumage, wetland health, and hands-on learning for Zoo Animal Technology students.", "funFact": "Pink color from diet", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Sandhill crane", "scientificName": "Grus canadensis", "class": "Bird", "range": "North America into northeastern Siberia; winters in southern U.S. and Mexico", "habitat": "Wetlands, prairies, and agricultural fields", "diet": "Omnivore — grains, plants, invertebrates, and small vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Sandhill cranes are ancient-looking birds with bugling calls and elaborate dancing. Florida hosts both migratory and resident populations.", "atTheZoo": "Crane interpretation covers Florida wetland conservation, migration stopovers, and respectful viewing of wild cranes around Gainesville.", "funFact": "Loud rattling calls" }, { "commonName": "Turkey vulture", "scientificName": "Cathartes aura", "class": "Bird", "range": "The Americas from southern Canada to southern South America", "habitat": "Open country, forest edge, and habitats with rising air currents for soaring", "diet": "Scavenger — primarily carrion", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Turkey vultures locate carrion partly by smell, an unusual trait among birds, and provide essential nutrient recycling in ecosystems.", "atTheZoo": "Ambassador vultures help reframe \"scary\" scavengers as clean-up crew species and give students experience with raptor-style husbandry." }, { "commonName": "White Ibis", "scientificName": "Eudocimus albus", "class": "Bird", "range": "Coastal southeastern United States through the Caribbean and northern South America", "habitat": "Wetlands, mangroves, lawns, and shallow water margins", "diet": "Carnivore — crustaceans, insects, and small aquatic animals", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "White ibises probe soft mud with curved bills. In Florida they are a familiar wetland and neighborhood bird.", "atTheZoo": "Ibis talks connect campus and community wetlands to foraging behavior students can also observe in wild Florida birds." }, { "commonName": "Wood stork", "scientificName": "Mycteria americana", "class": "Bird", "range": "Southeastern United States to South America", "habitat": "Freshwater and coastal wetlands with concentrated fish prey", "diet": "Carnivore — primarily fish", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN); U.S. population formerly endangered, now threatened/recovered in status discussions", "about": "Wood storks nest colonially in wetlands and require reliable fish concentrations for chick-rearing success.", "atTheZoo": "Students link water management and wetland conservation to a signature Florida wading bird and its nesting needs." }, { "commonName": "American alligator", "scientificName": "Alligator mississippiensis", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern United States", "habitat": "Freshwater wetlands, lakes, rivers, and marshes", "diet": "Carnivore — fish, turtles, birds, mammals, and other prey", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN); recovered from earlier endangerment", "about": "American alligators are keystone wetland predators and ecosystem engineers whose recovery is a major U.S. conservation success.", "atTheZoo": "Alligator programs teach safe crocodilian awareness, Florida wetland ecology, and professional handling protocols used by keepers and researchers.", "funFact": "Keystone species; creates alligator holes" }, { "commonName": "Asian brown tortoises", "scientificName": "Manouria emys emys", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeast Asia", "habitat": "Tropical forests and forest edge with humidity and cover", "diet": "Mostly herbivore — vegetation, fungi, and occasional animal matter", "status": "Critically Endangered (IUCN; Asian brown tortoise)", "about": "Asian brown tortoises are among the largest mainland Asian tortoises and are heavily pressured by collection and habitat loss.", "atTheZoo": "Students compare forest tortoise care with arid-species needs and discuss wildlife-trade threats facing Asian chelonians.", "funFact": "Female guards nest" }, { "commonName": "Ball python", "scientificName": "Python regius", "class": "Reptile", "range": "West and Central Africa", "habitat": "Grassland, savanna, and forest edge; often uses burrows", "diet": "Carnivore — small mammals and birds", "status": "Near Threatened (IUCN)", "about": "Ball pythons curl into a tight ball when defensive. Popular in the pet trade, wild populations still need careful management.", "atTheZoo": "Behind-the-scenes ambassador snakes help students master secure snake husbandry, feeding records, and education messaging about responsible pet ownership.", "funFact": "Rolls into a ball when threatened" }, { "commonName": "Chuckwalla", "scientificName": "Sauromalus ater", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico", "habitat": "Rocky desert outcrops and lava flows", "diet": "Herbivore — desert leaves, flowers, and fruits", "status": "Varies by species; most are Least Concern", "about": "Chuckwallas wedge into rock crevices and inflate their bodies so predators cannot pull them free.", "atTheZoo": "Desert lizard care teaches thermal gradients, UV lighting, and plant-based reptile diets in arid exhibit design.", "funFact": "Inflates to wedge into rocks" }, { "commonName": "Common kingsnake", "scientificName": "Lampropeltis getula", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Much of the United States into northern Mexico", "habitat": "Woodland, field edge, wetlands margins, and suburban green space", "diet": "Carnivore — snakes (including venomous species), rodents, and other small animals", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Kingsnakes are constrictors with resistance to some pit-viper venoms and play a valuable role controlling rodent and snake populations.", "atTheZoo": "Education snakes help guests identify Florida snakes respectfully and show students professional ambassador-animal routines.", "funFact": "Mimics venomous snakes" }, { "commonName": "Common musk turtle", "scientificName": "Sternotherus odoratus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Eastern North America", "habitat": "Quiet freshwater with muddy bottoms and abundant cover", "diet": "Omnivore — invertebrates, carrion, and plant material", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Also called stinkpots, musk turtles can release a foul-smelling musk when threatened and often walk along the bottom rather than basking openly.", "atTheZoo": "Small aquatic turtle husbandry highlights water quality, diet variety, and native Florida turtle diversity." }, { "commonName": "Corn snake", "scientificName": "Pantherophis guttatus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern United States", "habitat": "Pine woods, fields, barns, and forest edge", "diet": "Carnivore — rodents and other small animals", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Corn snakes are common Florida constrictors with blotched patterns that provide camouflage among pine needles and leaf litter.", "atTheZoo": "A staple teaching species for handling labs, corn snakes help students build confidence with secure restraint and public education about nonvenomous snakes.", "funFact": "Controls rodent populations", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Dusky pygmy rattlesnake", "scientificName": "Sistrurus miliarius barbouri", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Florida and nearby southeastern coastal plain", "habitat": "Flatwoods, prairies, and wetland edges", "diet": "Carnivore — small vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern overall; locally sensitive to habitat loss", "about": "Pygmy rattlesnakes are small pit vipers with a tiny rattle that can be hard to hear. They are an important part of Florida's native snake community.", "atTheZoo": "Venomous species are managed with strict protocols, teaching students professional safety culture and accurate Florida snake identification." }, { "commonName": "Eastern diamondback rattlesnake", "scientificName": "Crotalus adamanteus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern United States coastal plain", "habitat": "Pine flatwoods, scrub, and palmetto habitats", "diet": "Carnivore — rabbits, rodents, and other mammals", "status": "Least Concern globally but declining in parts of its range", "about": "North America's largest rattlesnake, the eastern diamondback is a heavy-bodied ambush predator of southeastern uplands.", "atTheZoo": "Students learn why habitat connectivity matters for large native snakes and how education reduces unnecessary killing of rattlesnakes." }, { "commonName": "Eastern indigo snake", "scientificName": "Drymarchon couperi", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern United States, especially Florida and southern Georgia", "habitat": "Sandhill, flatwoods, and habitats linked to gopher tortoise burrows", "diet": "Carnivore — snakes, frogs, rodents, and other vertebrates", "status": "Threatened (U.S. Endangered Species Act)", "about": "Eastern indigo snakes are the longest native snakes in the United States and often use gopher tortoise burrows for shelter.", "atTheZoo": "Indigo interpretation ties tortoise burrows, upland conservation, and federal recovery efforts into one Florida flagship story.", "funFact": "Largest native US snake", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "European glass lizard", "scientificName": "Pseudopus apodus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern Europe through western Asia", "habitat": "Dry grassland, scrub, and rocky slopes", "diet": "Carnivore — invertebrates and small vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Glass lizards are legless lizards, not snakes—they have eyelids and external ear openings. They may drop their tails when threatened.", "atTheZoo": "Comparing legless lizards with snakes helps students teach anatomy differences that surprise many guests." }, { "commonName": "False water cobra", "scientificName": "Hydrodynastes gigas", "class": "Reptile", "range": "South America, especially the Pantanal and nearby basins", "habitat": "Wetlands, rivers, and seasonally flooded grasslands", "diet": "Carnivore — amphibians, fish, and other vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "False water cobras can flatten their necks in a cobra-like display but are rear-fanged snakes of wetland South America, not true cobras.", "atTheZoo": "Advanced snake husbandry lessons cover aquatic-edge species and clear communication about venom types and defensive displays." }, { "commonName": "Florida box turtle", "scientificName": "Terrapene carolina bauri", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Peninsular Florida", "habitat": "Pine flatwoods, hammocks, and moist woodland", "diet": "Omnivore — fungi, fruits, invertebrates, and vegetation", "status": "Vulnerable tendencies via habitat loss; box turtles face collection pressure", "about": "Florida box turtles close their hinged shells for protection and often live many decades in a relatively small home range.", "atTheZoo": "Native turtle talks discourage taking wild turtles home and show students terrestrial chelonian husbandry.", "funFact": "Hinged plastron closes shell", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Florida pine snake", "scientificName": "Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Florida and nearby southeastern coastal plain", "habitat": "Sandy pinewoods and scrub with mammal burrows", "diet": "Carnivore — rodents and other small mammals", "status": "Species of concern in parts of range; habitat specialist", "about": "Pine snakes are powerful constrictors that spend much of their life underground in pocket-gopher and other burrow systems.", "atTheZoo": "Behind-the-scenes care emphasizes fossorial species needs and the link between sandy uplands and secretive snakes.", "funFact": "Digs its own burrows" }, { "commonName": "Florida red-bellied turtle", "scientificName": "Pseudemys nelsoni", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Peninsular Florida into extreme southern Georgia", "habitat": "Lakes, rivers, springs, and vegetated freshwater", "diet": "Mostly herbivore as adults — aquatic plants", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Florida red-bellied turtles often bask in groups and are a familiar species in Florida's spring-fed waters.", "atTheZoo": "Aquatic turtle exhibits teach filtration, basking platforms, and native plant-eating turtle ecology.", "funFact": "Hinged plastron closes shell" }, { "commonName": "Galapagos tortoise", "scientificName": "Chelonoidis spp.", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Galápagos Islands, Ecuador", "habitat": "Island arid zones to humid highlands, depending on lineage", "diet": "Herbivore — grasses, leaves, cactus, and other vegetation", "status": "Vulnerable overall; some island lineages more imperiled", "about": "Galápagos tortoises are the largest living tortoises and icons of island evolution and conservation breeding success.", "atTheZoo": "On-exhibit tortoises let guests meet gentle giants while students practice large-tortoise husbandry, weighing, and conservation storytelling. Larry, Curly, and Moe remain popular ambassadors.", "funFact": "Longest-lived land animals", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Gila monster", "scientificName": "Heloderma suspectrum", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico", "habitat": "Desert scrub and rocky foothills", "diet": "Carnivore — eggs, nestlings, and small animals", "status": "Near Threatened (IUCN)", "about": "Gila monsters are venomous lizards that spend most of their lives in shelters, emerging seasonally to feed and breed.", "atTheZoo": "Specialized venomous-lizard protocols teach respect, safety, and the medical research history connected to helodermatid venoms." }, { "commonName": "Gopher tortoise", "scientificName": "Gopherus polyphemus", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeastern United States coastal plain", "habitat": "Well-drained sandy uplands such as scrub and sandhill", "diet": "Herbivore — grasses, legumes, and low plants", "status": "Threatened in much of its range (U.S. listing varies by region)", "about": "Gopher tortoises dig long burrows that shelter hundreds of other species, making them a keystone of Florida uplands.", "atTheZoo": "Guests learn why gopher tortoises are Florida's state tortoise and how students support native upland conservation messaging.", "funFact": "Burrows support hundreds of species", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Leopard gecko", "scientificName": "Eublepharis macularius", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India and Iran", "habitat": "Arid and semi-arid rocky grasslands", "diet": "Insectivore — invertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Leopard geckos have moveable eyelids and store fat in their tails. They are nocturnal ground-dwellers.", "atTheZoo": "A behind-the-scenes teaching gecko for husbandry labs covering heating, hides, and ethically sourced feeder insects.", "funFact": "Movable eyelids and tail drop" }, { "commonName": "Leopard tortoise", "scientificName": "Stigmochelys pardalis", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Eastern and southern Africa", "habitat": "Grassland and savanna", "diet": "Herbivore — grasses and succulent plants", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Leopard tortoises are named for high-domed shells with spotted markings and can grow quite large in open African habitats.", "atTheZoo": "Students compare grazing tortoise nutrition and outdoor enclosure management across African and New World species.", "funFact": "One of largest tortoises" }, { "commonName": "Ornate diamondback terrapin", "scientificName": "Malaclemys terrapin macrospilota", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Florida Gulf Coast subspecies of diamondback terrapin", "habitat": "Brackish marshes, mangroves, and estuaries", "diet": "Carnivore — snails, crabs, and other invertebrates", "status": "Species faces regional threats from habitat loss and bycatch", "about": "Diamondback terrapins are the only turtles specialized for brackish coastal marshes in North America.", "atTheZoo": "Estuarine turtle care highlights salinity needs and coastal conservation challenges unique to Florida shorelines." }, { "commonName": "Prehensile-tailed skink", "scientificName": "Corucia zebrata", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Solomon Islands", "habitat": "Tropical forest canopy", "diet": "Herbivore — leaves and other vegetation", "status": "Endangered (IUCN)", "about": "The largest skinks, prehensile-tailed skinks live in trees and use gripping tails like an extra limb. They give birth to live young.", "atTheZoo": "Arboreal herbivore care teaches leafy diets, climbing structures, and island endemism for advanced reptile students.", "funFact": "Largest skink species", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Red-footed tortoise", "scientificName": "Chelonoidis carbonaria", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Northern South America into parts of Central America", "habitat": "Forest edge, savanna, and humid woodland", "diet": "Omnivore — fruits, flowers, fungi, and occasional animal matter", "status": "Vulnerable (IUCN)", "about": "Red-footed tortoises are colorful forest tortoises with scales of red, orange, or yellow on the limbs.", "atTheZoo": "Students practice tropical tortoise husbandry and discuss fruit-driven foraging enrichment.", "funFact": "Courtship clucking sounds", "showEncounterCta": true }, { "commonName": "Atlantic Central American Milksnake", "scientificName": "Lampropeltis polyzona", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Mexico and Central America (semi-deserts and dry forests)", "habitat": "Mexican semi-deserts", "diet": "Carnivore — rodents, eggs, and other snakes", "status": "Not Listed", "about": "Bright red, black, and white bands make Atlantic Central American milksnakes a classic Batesian-mimic lookalike of coral snakes, though they are harmless constrictors. Taxonomy updates now place this population in Lampropeltis polyzona.", "atTheZoo": "Behind-the-scenes ambassadors for teaching snake coloration myths versus Florida identification facts.", "funFact": "Mimics venomous snakes" }, { "commonName": "Southern copperhead", "scientificName": "Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Eastern United States (copperhead range; southern form)", "habitat": "Woodland, rocky hillsides, and forest edge", "diet": "Carnivore — rodents, frogs, and other small animals", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Copperheads are camouflaged pit vipers whose hourglass patterns blend into leaf litter. Bites are rarely fatal but require medical care.", "atTheZoo": "Venomous teaching collection animals reinforce safety culture and help guests learn to give wild snakes space." }, { "commonName": "Tokay gecko", "scientificName": "Gekko gecko", "class": "Reptile", "range": "Southeast Asia; introduced in parts of Florida and elsewhere", "habitat": "Trees, cliffs, and buildings in tropical areas", "diet": "Carnivore — insects and small vertebrates", "status": "Least Concern (IUCN)", "about": "Tokay geckos are loud nocturnal climbers with adhesive toe pads and bold orange-spotted patterns.", "atTheZoo": "Students practice secure lizard capture techniques and discuss introduced gecko populations in Florida." } ] }