Lesser Siren

Physical Description

The lesser siren is a type of salamander with two front legs and no hind legs and retains external gills throughout its life. Their color can vary from deep brown to olive green to black. They can range from 7-27 inches in length and have a long, slender tail.

Predators

Predators they may encounter include water snakes, fishes, alligators, and wading birds.

Lifespan

Their lifespan in the wild is unknown, but in human care they have been known to live an average of 6 years.

Reproduction

Not much is known about their reproduction. Scientists believe their courtship rituals may be aggressive and involve biting because of scarring. Females will lay anywhere from 100-500 or more eggs in the soft mud or plant debris at the bottom of the body of water they inhabit. It is believed that the eggs then incubate for 1 ½ to 2 ½ months because of when larvae begin to appear.

Fun Facts

The lesser siren is smaller than the greater siren, which can reach lengths of over 3 feet. The best way to distinguish between them is by counting their costal grooves, which are grooves on their sides from the forelimbs to the vent. Greater sirens will have over 36 grooves, while the lesser will have under 35.
Because of their body shape and lack of hindlimbs, the lesser siren has often been mistaken for an eel!

Conservation Messaging

In our Reptile and Amphibian (RAD) center you will find many different reptiles and amphibians including venomous and poisonous species of snakes and frogs. Many of these animals fall victim to habitat loss in the wild. Many of the species here are found in South American habitats which are subjected to deforestation, damming of rivers, water pollution, and poor agricultural and management practices.

Lorikeet

Physical Description

Lorikeets are some of the most colorful members of the parrot family with most lorikeets being green with patches of red and yellow but some being other color combinations. Their size ranges from 6-15 inches depending on species, and they are known for their unique, brush-like tongue which helps them harvest pollen and nectar.

Predators

Predators they may encounter include birds of prey and snakes.

Lifespan

Their lifespan varies by species, with smaller species typically living 12-15 years and larger ones living 25-35 years.

Reproduction

Most lorikeets mate for life and can breed at any time during the year, though some species may vary by location. The female usually lays 2 eggs, and even though both parents will be in the roost, only the female will incubate the eggs for a period of about 25 days. The chicks will begin to fledge after about 7 to 8 weeks.

Fun Facts

Because of habitat destruction, introduction of invasive species and exotic diseases, and illegal trapping for the pet trade industry, at least 13 species are endangered or vulnerable, particularly those found only on small islands.
Lorikeets are very social and have sometimes been found in flocks of thousands of individuals.

Conservation Messaging

Lorikeets and Cockatoos are often viewed as these beautiful and intelligent birds. While many people will fall in love with exotic birds for that reason, most of these birds are considered vulnerable, threatened, or endangered out in the wild.

By purchasing and owning an exotic animal, you could be supporting the illegal exotic pet trade. What we see is vibrant colors of a parrot or the incredible ability to mimic sound but what we don’t see is how these animals were first illegally poached from the wild. One more exotic pet in captivity is one less animal in the wild which is resulting in species population numbers dropping drastically.

Mexican Gray Wolf

Physical Description

They are the smallest gray wolf subspecies in North America with adults averaging 5.5 feet nose to tail, weighing about 50-80 lbs, and standing 28-32 inches at the shoulder. Males are slightly larger than females. Their coats are a mix of gray, rust, brown, black, and off-white/ cream.

Hunting

Mexican wolves hunt cooperatively to bring down prey animals usually much larger than themselves. This is accomplished primarily by chasing their prey often over large distances; however, hunting behavior and strategies likely vary depending on terrain, prey size, and availability.

Lifespan

In the wild, they have an average lifespan of 5-10 years, but in human care, they can live up to 15 years.

Reproduction

Generally, they breed in February and give birth in April or early May to four to six pups after a 63-day gestation period. Pups are born blind and helpless, so adult subordinates in the pack will help raise offspring who will mature at 10 months of age.

Fun Facts

By the mid-1980s, hunting, trapping, and poisoning caused their extinction in the wild. The Mexican Wolf Recovery Team was founded by the US Fish & Wildlife Services in 1979 and created the Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan.
As of 2021, current populations in the wild reached 186 wolves- a 14% increase from 2019!

Conservation Messaging

As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility, the Lehigh Valley Zoo is proud to play a role in the conservation community through participation in Species Survival Plans, or SSPs. This means our Mexican Grey Wolves are part of a breeding program where we help to maintain captive populations that are both genetically diverse and demographically stable.

By visiting the Lehigh Valley Zoo and other AZA member institutions, you’re supporting the highest level of animal care and welfare, along with the promotion of conservation of animals such as the Mexican Grey Wolf.

North America River Otter

Physical Description

North American river otters have long, streamlined bodies with broad heads, short legs, webbed toes and long, powerful tails. They average 3-4 feet in length (with tail). Males are typically bigger and lighter in color.

Predators

The main predators of otters include alligators, bobcats, and coyotes.

Lifespan

In the wild, the average lifespan of a river otter is 8-9 years old. Under human care, they can live into their 20s.

Reproduction

Males will often breed with multiple females. After a 2 month gestation period, females will give birth to an average of 3 pups, which will be born in a den near the water.

Fun Facts

North American River Otters can stay under water for up to 8 minutes and can dive to depths of 60 feet!
Playful activities help strengthen social bonds and help young otters practice hunting techniques.

Conservation Messaging

North American River otters spend about ⅔rds of their life in the water. They will use the water to hunt, play, and clean themselves. Water pollution has been a major issue for river otters since they have a low tolerance of pollution and so they are considered an important indicator species for aquatic habitats.

This means, low numbers and low birth rates of river otters in a specific habitat probably means it is significantly polluted. By keeping the waterways and neighboring areas free of debris, pesticides, and trash we can help protect these critical aquatic habitats and save species like the North American River Otter.

Scimitar-Horned Oryx

Physical Description

Scimitar-Horned Oryx average 4.6 feet tall at the shoulder, and their head and body length is between 4.9 to 7.5 feet. They weigh between 220 to 460 pounds. They are mostly white with reddish brown necks and marks on the face and a long, dark, tufted tail. Their black skin and tip of the tongue protects against sunburn while enlarged hooves enable the oryx to walk easily on sand. Both male and female scimitar-horned oryx have long, ridged, sharp-tipped and curved backwards horns that grow to be several feet long.

Predators

In the wild, their predators have included animals such as lions, hyena, leopards, Cape hunting dogs.

Lifespan

Their lifespan in the wild is unknown, but in human care, they have been known to live into their twenties.

Reproduction

They will give birth after an approximately 8 month gestation period and will give birth to one calf, which will weigh 20-33 lb. Calves are weaned at about 4.5 months old.

Fun Facts

The oryx is a herd animal that would typically have been found in herds of 20-40 animals with a dominant male; males can be very aggressive toward each other. They sometimes formed herds of over a 1,000 individuals during migrations.
Their name comes from the shape of their horns which are curved like Arabian swords called scimitars.

Conservation Messaging

As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility, the Lehigh Valley Zoo is proud to play a role in the conservation community through participation in Species Survival Plans, or SSPs. This means our Scimitar-horned Oryx are part of a breeding program where we help to maintain captive populations that are both genetically diverse and demographically stable.

Ostrich

Physical Description

Males are 7-9 feet tall, can weigh more than 300 lbs, and have striking black and white feathers. While females, known as hens, are around 6 feet tall, weigh up to 220 lbs, and have grayish-brown feathers. They have “wings” but are unable to use them to fly because they are too heavy. Instead, they use their wings for balance, for displays and courtship, and to show dominance or submission.

Predators

As the largest living bird with a powerful kick that can kill various types of predators, not many animals will risk attacking an ostrich. Their main predators include lions and painted dogs for adults and hyenas, jackals, and Egyptian vultures for their eggs.

Lifespan

It is unknown what the average lifespan for an ostrich is in the wild, but under human care, they can live 30-40 years.

Fun Facts

Ostriches are excellent runners, reaching speeds of up to 43 mph, while using their wings as “rudders” to change direction or as a “parachute” to slow down.
They lay the largest eggs on the planet! Each egg weighs around 3 lbs. Only dinosaurs laid bigger eggs.

Conservation Messaging

Our Ostriches and Zebras are found throughout different areas of Africa. Like many other animals in Africa, habitat loss has been increasing due to human encroachment. Agriculture, infrastructure, and resource extraction are just a few of the contributions to the destruction of wildlife habitats in Africa.

One thing that we can do is support sustainable agriculture practices. By purchasing products that are certified such as Bird Friendly Coffee, you are helping in the conservation of forests and habitats around the world.

Peregrine Falcon

Physical Description

Peregrine falcons have streamlined bodies with long, pointed wings. Adult falcons measure 14 to 23 inches in length with a wingspan ranging from 36 to 44 inches and typically weigh 1 to 3 and 1/2 pounds. They have slate-colored, barred plumage and creamy white chests, a sharp, pale blue beak, and bright yellow feet.

Predators

Predators can include other birds of prey.

Lifespan

In the wild, these falcons can live up to 15 years, while under human care they can live longer than 15.

Reproduction

Peregrine falcons form strong pair bonds. They stay paired indefinitely, though re-pairings do occur occasionally. They nest on cliffs in wild areas, and on building ledges or bridges in cities. An average of three to four eggs are incubated by both parents for 28 days, and hatchlings fledge after 25-42 days.

Fun Facts

Peregrine falcons can reach speeds up to 200 mph when diving for their prey. When hunting, peregrine falcons will soar high up into the air. Once a prey is spotted, the falcon will fold its wings in, and divebomb.
By the 1960’s, peregrine falcon numbers had declined severely in the eastern United States due to the accidental ingestion of the pesticide DDT. In 1970, the peregrine falcon was officially listed as endangered. The release of captive-raised young and the protection of nest sites led to them being removed from the federal Endangered Species list in 1999.

Conservation Messaging

Most of the Bird of Prey here at the zoo are all rehabilitated birds who have sustained different injuries deeming them unreleasable. These birds fall victim to debris found on the side of the road. If it’s an apple core, banana peel, or some discarded trash it will attract their prey items which will then attract the bird of prey. Birds of prey have tunnel vision when hunting and will often not see a car coming. One simple way we can help is to dispose of all your trash properly, even natural items like apple cores and banana peels.

Raccoon

Physical Description

Raccoons typically have greyish-brown fur on top and light gray fur underneath. The tail has 5 -7 complete dark rings, alternating with broader brown or gray rings. One hypothesis for the dark fur that covers its eyes is that it may help reduce glare and enhance the nocturnal animal’s night vision. Because its hind legs are longer than the front legs, they often appear hunched when they walk or run.

Predators

Common predators they may encounter include coyotes, wolves, hawks, and owls.

Lifespan

In the wild, they will live an average of 2-3 years, but in human care they have been known to live up to 20 years.

Reproduction

Females are more monogamous, while males tend to be polygamous and don’t help raise their young. Their gestation period is approximately 63 days and litter size will be 1-7 kits. Kits are 3-5 oz at birth, have little fur, no teeth, and their eyes are closed.

Fun Facts

Their front paws are incredibly dexterous and contain roughly four times more sensory receptors than their back paws. This allows them to differentiate between objects without seeing them, which is crucial when feeding at night.
Raccoons are not very social and are typically solitary. Females will raise their young, but once the kits reach 10 months old they are ready to leave mom

Conservation Messaging

Raccoons are often seen as pests since they will go through your garbage, get close to humans, and sometimes scavenge throughout the day.

The common misconception with raccoons is that they have rabies if seen during the day and will attack you if you are near which is actually not true. Raccoons will flee a situation if they feel scared as long as they have an exit. So please keep your distance from them to allow them that opportunity to flee. Also just because you see a raccoon during the day, does not necessarily mean they have rabies, are sick or dangerous. Raccoons are opportunistic so they may be looking for food to support young, taking advantage of a garden while the dogs are inside, or trying to move to a new location to call home.

Ways to co-exist safely with raccoons are to keep your outside trash lids secure and keep trash inside your car while driving. Often time’s raccoons are killed when trying to eat such things as banana peels or apple cores on the side of the road and often get hit by cars. No matter where you are, always “Leave No Trace.”

Raven

Physical Description

Common ravens are the largest members of the Corvid family. On average, they can grow to be 22-27 inches long with a wingspan of 45-46 in. Most ravens are black and will have ruff feathers, called hackles, on their throat. Their strong, large feet and long bills can be used for ripping items open and even for using tools!

Predators

Few animals attempt to prey on ravens, but if they are feeding on a carcass, ravens may encounter polar bears, wolves, coyotes, and birds of prey and will defer to them. However, they also have been known to work cooperatively to distract other predators at feed sites while certain individuals eat.

Lifespan

In the wild, they have been known to live an average of 10-15 years, but in human care they have been known to live up to 40-50 years.

Reproduction

Ravens have been known to mate for life and will often fly with their wingtips touching those of their mate. The pair will build their nest in their established territory. The female will lay anywhere from 4-7 eggs at a time. She will incubate the eggs for about 20 days.

During that time, the male will hunt and bring food back to the female. Once hatched, the chicks will stay in the nest for about 4 weeks.

Fun Facts

They are often mistaken for crows, but ravens are usually larger and have longer, wedge-shaped tail feathers.
Ravens are highly intelligent and are able to make up to 30 different vocalizations! They are even capable of mimicking certain animal sounds or simple human words.

Conservation Messaging

Ravens are considered to be one of the smartest of the bird species and they’re incredible problem solvers! For instance, they will call larger carnivores over to a dead carcass in order for them to tear it open in which now they can eat it for themselves!

They’re considered scavenger hunters and will feed on pests such as rodents and insects but will also clean up carrion. This makes them a very important part of the ecosystem in which they live. Ecosystems have a natural balance so it’s important for us as humans to leave no trace!

Once you leave nature, no one should know that you’ve been there. This means bringing out anything that you’ve brought in. Additionally, leaving the environment unaltered is equally important. To learn more about the Leave no Trace initiative and their 7 principles for minimum impact practices, visit: www.lnt.org.

Rocky Mountain Elk

Physical Description

A male bull will weigh approximately 700 lbs and will be about 5 feet tall at the shoulder; while females will weigh approximately 500 lbs and be about 4 ½ feet tall. During the summer, their coat will be copper brown, but during the rest of the year, it will be light tan with their neck and legs being darker than the rest of the body.

Predators

Some of their predators include bears, wolves, cougars, and coyotes.

Lifespan

In the wild, they live an average of 15 years, but in human care they have been known to live into their 20’s.

Reproduction

The rut, or mating period, for elk begins in September and will last for about 10-12 weeks. During this time, male bulls will compete for and then defend a harem of females. Their gestation period is 240-262 days and will result in a single calf being born. Calves will be weaned by about 2 months of age but will remain with their mother for about a

Fun Facts

Also known as Nelson’s Elk, the Rocky Mountain Elk is the second largest member of the deer family, with Moose being the largest.
Only male elk have antlers, which they will shed and regrow every year. These antlers can weigh up to 40 lbs!

Conservation Messaging

Early settlers in North America caused a decline in certain elk populations because of overhunting and habitat loss. Their populations began recovering because of various conservation programs that worked on reintroducing elk to areas that had experienced extreme population decline or extinction and by creating programs to regulate hunting. One thing that we can do is support sustainable agriculture practices. By purchasing products that are certified by organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance and Bird Friendly, you are helping in the conservation of forests and habitats around the world.