Emperor Scorpion

Pandinus imperator Order: Scorpiones Family: Scorpionidae Overview This species is commonly found in education collections. Because of their impressive size, Emperor scorpions are known for their wow factor. They do not have potent venom which also makes them a possibility for handling, although their pincers are powerful. Like tarantulas, most people consider scorpions scary or…

Radiated Tortoise

Astrochelys radiata Order: Testudines Family: Testudinidae Radiated tortoises are the closest living relative of the Ploughshare tortoises, the most endangered tortoises in the world. Overview This striking species gives the perfect opportunity to talk about the unique biodiversity of Madagascar and the plight of endangered species across the globe. Radiated tortoises are personable and allow…

Leopard Tortoise

Stigmochelys pardalis Order: Testudines Family: Testudinidae Natural History Information Longevity Leopard tortoises live between 50 and 100 years in the wild. Husbandry Information Housing Requirements Life Cycle Natural History Relevant Information Leopard tortoises readily drink standing water. A shallow water dish may be provided, but check it daily, and clean it as required. The size…

Barn Owl

Barn Owl Tyto Alba Order: Strigiformes Family: Tytonidae Overview Although often readily available through wildlife rehabilitation sources, barn owls are not a beginner owl, and acquisition of one should only be considered if facility has experienced handlers. Many facilities have noted they are more challenging than other owl species due to their naturally secretive nature….

Hooded Vulture

Hooded Vulture Coragyps atratus Order: Accipitriformes Family: Accipitridae Overview With regard to their availability and suitability as ambassador animals: Hooded vultures are an SSP species so if you are an AZA zoo it is recommended that you first contact the SSP coordinator. With good training, this species can be reliable in both flighted and non-flighted…

Dumeril’s Ground Boa

Acrantophis dumerili Order: Squamata Family: Boidae Natural History Information Range and Habitat Dumeril’s ground boas are found in the dry forests in southwest Madagascar. It has also been found living in very degraded habitats, often close to villages. Longevity Dumeril’s ground boas live approximately 20 to 30 years. Ecosystem Role They are important for population…

Red River Hog

Potamochoerus porcus Order: Artiodactyla Husbandry Information Housing Requirements An enclosure that is proof against extensive rooting and general destruction. No exposed or buried pipes or wires. Square footage is important as this is a terrestrial animal. Some like spacious caves or overhangs. Heat in cool temperatures. May or may not enjoy pools/mud wallows. Diet Requirements…

Naked Mole-rat

Heterocephalus glaber Order: Rodentia Husbandry Information Housing Requirements Naked mole-rats have a natural instinct to tunnel and are able to chew through most materials over time. They may be contained in glass or plastic-walled cylinders (like clear PVC pipes) or cubes (like glass tanks) as long as they can’t get their teeth around any edges…

Cape Porcupine

Hystrix africaeustralis Order: Rodentia Husbandry Information Housing Requirements Very good diggers; need concrete or chain link under dirt to allow digging behavior but prevent escape. Live in burrows; need a nestbox or cave. Expect chewing on any chewable surfaces. Food and water bowls should be metal or concrete. Branches or small logs for chewing are…

African Crested Porcupine

Hystrix cristata Order: Rodentia Husbandry Information Housing Requirements Avid chewers require proper flooring and cage material. Thick gauge caging and sealed concrete floor recommended. 10′ x 8′ recommend size for a single animal. Diet Requirements Will eat anything. Any fruits, any vegetables, rodent block, omnivore biscuit or leaf eater biscuit. Root vegetables and fruit are high…