Virginia’s swamps and marshes are home to a huge variety of reptiles, but few are as feared or disliked as the Eastern Cottonmouth. Perhaps the most common venomous snake in South East Virginia, this species is commonly found in our region and in close proximity to…
Lazily swimming in the Woodland Pond exhibit is a colorful little reptile known as an Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta). Named for their vibrant red and yellow colors, these aquatic turtles are the most widespread native turtles in North America, and are commonly found all…
Hidden away in the roots of a cypress tree in our swamp habitarium is a strange, eel-looking creature. Resting on the bottom of the swamp during the day, this odd animal becomes a fierce predator under the cover of darkness. This slimy swamp dweller is…
Our Cypress Swamp exhibit is home to 4 species of turtles that we collectively call “pond turtles”. Though they all have their unique characteristics and behaviors, one species in particular is immediately recognizable to many guests: the Red-Eared Slider. Extremely well founded and popular in…