Virginia Zoo Amphibians and Reptiles

The Virginia Zoo is home to many fascinating amphibians and reptiles. Here are some popular residents.

Red Salamander

Red Salamanders are found in the eastern United States, especially near rivers and streams. They are about 4 to 7 inches long, and despite their name, they can range in color from a purple-brown to bright red. Younger salamanders often are brighter, and adults darken as they age. Red salamanders have five toes on their back feet and four toes on the front. Predators include birds, skunks and raccoons. They are carnivores, eating small insects, worms and sometimes smaller salamanders.

Snakes

The Virginia Zoo is home to a variety of snakes including indigo snake, speckled kingsnake, Angolan pythons, carpet pythons, green tree boas, emerald tree boas, and copperheads. Snakes can have a preference for food based on color and generally are loners.

Year of the Frog

The Virginia Zoo has joined zoos around the world to celebrate the “Year of the Frog.” This global campaign is designed to raise international awareness and save amphibians from extinction.

Recently, the world has lost more than 120 species of amphibians due to habitat loss, disease, over-collection, climate change, pesticides and pollution. It is a real possibility that frogs, toads, salamanders and newts may go extinct in the next few years. This combined effort represents the greatest species conservation challenge in decades.

How you can help:

• Maintain a green garden and lawn without pesticides
• Participate in wetland cleanups
• Use eco-friendly cleaning products
• Conserve water
• Buy locally grown produce
• Visit Frogwatch at www.nwf.org/frogwatchUSA

Click here for a list of more amphibians and reptiles at the Virginia Zoo.