At right is a listing, in alphabetical order by common name, of the
reptiles, amphibians and insects and spiders at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Now
Open!!
The Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House, a state-of-the-art
facility located west of the Waterfowl Lagoon, will be home to more than
200 animals, including 40 species from koalas to African Dwarf Crocodiles.
Now open, the new building features a dramatic glass-enclosed walk-through
ecosystem that will transport visitors to the rivers, savannas and forests
of the world.
What is a reptile?
The word reptile means "crawling animal," but this is not the
only feature that distinguishes these interesting animals. They are cold-blooded,
backboned animals that breathe air. All reptiles are covered with scales
or modified scales which are dry and firm; they ae neither cold nor slimy.
Some, like snakes and lizards, shed their skin periodically to allow for
growth; others, such as turtles and tortoises, are surrounded by a shell
to help protect them.
Many Reptiles, since they are cold-blooded, have the ability to go long
periods without eating. Most reptiles are carnivorous and feed on mammals,
birds, other reptiles, fish, insects and eggs. Farmers find some types excellent
for pest control since they will eat rodents, grasshoppers and other insects
that destroy crops. Reptiles capture their prey in different ways. Some
use powerful jaws, some capture by constriction and others poison their
prey by injecting venom. At Lincoln Park Zoo you can see a variety of venomous
and non-venomous snakes and lizards from around the world. |
Common Name |
Scientific Name |