Smithsonian scientists and partners provide free test kits for salamander pet owners to screen their animals for deadly diseases that are spread through the international pet trade.
The international pet trade can unintentionally spread diseases that can have devastating
Our giant panda cub is growing! As our newborn packs on the grams, it is becoming a bit easier to spot on the Panda Cam.
Now that the cub’s markings have come in, we have a few weeks to go before the next
Don’t let his prickly appearance deter you – Quillbur is a very friendly porcupine! Get to know our new prehensile-tailed porcupine in this Q&A with Small Mammal House keepers.
Their quills have barbed ends that hook into a predator’s skin once pierced.
With an aggressive attitude, an eager appetite for fish and the ability to “walk” on land, the northern snakehead fish is a powerful predator. Recently, Asia Trail keepers welcomed four snakeheads—one male and three females—into their care.
Snakehead fish have evolved to “walk” on land!
From salamanders to siamangs, all Zoo animals receive veterinary care… and sometimes, that includes medicine. Find out how keepers and veterinarians give animals medicine in this update.
Do you have any pets at home — a dog or cat, maybe even some fish or a bird?
Jonathan Ballou was the population manager and a research scientist at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Washington, D.C. His research focused on the genetic and demographic problems confronted by small populations, especially of threatened species. He is recognized as a leader in developing the theoretical basis for the genetic management of small populations and in developing population management tools (software, applied theory) that are widely and internationally used by wildlife and zoo managers.
Ballou’s more recent activities have included co-authoring the text ‚Genetic Management
The Fly River turtle, or pig-nosed turtle, is the last living member of the Carettochelyidae family of turtles. With flipper-like forelegs, webbed hind legs and a shell covered in soft, leathery skin, it is well adapted to aquatic life.
Fact Sheet Conservation Physical Description Fly River turtles have gray bodies
See Spot. He’s a little ruby-throated hummingbird with a big personality. Spot is also super smart and has mastered scale training. Learn how Bird House keepers came to weigh him and get tips on attracting hummingbirds to your backyard!
From there, we record the birds’ measurements and keep track of whether they have
Say hello to Ariel! This sweet and social clouded leopard just joined the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s breeding program. She has the smarts to solve puzzle feeders and seems smitten with her beau-to-be, Ta Moon.
They have large paws for gripping branches, specialized anklebones for ease of climbing
Fire-bellied toads, also called bombina, are warty, aquatic toads with bright orange or red undersides. These gregarious frogs are native to China and Russia.
Males, unlike females, also have nuptial pads on the first and second fingers.
