animals. They all play a vital role in the natural environment. Amphibians are an excellent indicator of the health of a natural habitat. From apex predator to prey, they all have a reason for existing in the circle of life. The loss of any of these species is a loss to all of us. Clyde Peeling and his team are dedicated to conservation and have been for many years. Along with Komodo dragon conservation, they are also involved in the Turtle Survival Alliance and Crocodile Advisory Group. The next plans for the zoo include expanding building a bigger pond for the aquatic turtles and possibly adding an eagle exhibit. Clyde’s son Elliot is very involved with Peeling Productions, an organization dedicated to providing other institutions with a way for their guests to see animals they might not have a chance to otherwise. The traveling exhibits are carefully designed and monitored with animal comfort and safety in mind. Currently, the exhibition “Spiders Alive” with be at the Philadelphia Zoo for the next two years. Every visit that I’ve had to Reptiland was a new experience. The zoo is open year-round, so start making your memories today! Here’s a look at the current exhibits, all included in with general admission: Dinosaurs Come to Life! Take a walk back in time and meet the life sized animatronic dinos that roar, spit and more. If you’ve seen Jurassic Park, you’ll easily recognize a Velociraptor and Dilophosaurus! When we took our son a few years ago, he had a blast. Don’t miss the Dino Dig and the nearby emus. Why emus? Because birds ARE living dinosaurs. (This is an outdoor exhibit and may not be open year-round.)
The Pre-Reptiland Days: Clyde in 1956 with his “backyard zoo” in Clarkstown, PA.
Clyde giving a presentation in the 1980’s.
Island Giants Two extremes of giants are in this building. The first are the Komodo Dragons. The largest lizards in the world, this species lives on only a few islands near Indonesia. Capable of taking down a full-grown water buffalo, these magnificent carnivores are a must see. Reptiland is part of a conservation program to increase captive reproduction of this endangered species. On the other end of spectrum are the Aldabra tortoises. The largest of the group is named Al and he resides with his smaller friends. They are amazingly friendly and gentle. You can even arrange a meet and feed with them! (See reptiland.com for pricing and availability.)
LEFT: A pair of orange-eyed tree frogs relaxing at Reptiland. RIGHT: Zookeeper Rebecca with Gwanji the Cuban Rock Iguana.
10
Powered by FlippingBook