It’ssssssss #WildlifeWednesday and tomorrow is #WorldSnakeDay, so let's learn about one of our resident animal ambassadors, Zea the corn snake! The corn snake is a type of rat snake found in North America, mostly in the central and southeastern United States. It is not venomous and kills its prey instead by constriction (squeezing). It is a beneficial animal to humans as it keeps populations of wild rodents in check, particularly near agricultural land and crops. There are two origins of the name “corn snake.” One says the name comes from the tendency of the snake to live near stores of grain and maize, where it hunts rats and mice. The other suggests that the name comes from the distinctive checkered scales on the belly, which resemble variegated kernels of corn. The lifespan for wild corn snakes is 6-8 years, but in captivity they can live to well over 20. Zea is 13 years old. Corn snakes are popular to keep in captivity for educational purposes and as pets due to the ease of their care, calm temperament, and tolerance for being handled. Zea is a curious snake with a gentle disposition. She is very receptive to being held and enjoys meeting visitors and audiences at programs and outreach events. She also likes supervised exploring and slithering outdoors, exercising on her tank's climbing wall, and making tunnels in her substrate. Join us tomorrow, World Snake Day , for a special free presentation featuring Zea!
Woof-woof, it’s #WildlifeWednesday! The hot and humid time period between July 3rd and August 11th is referred to as the “Dog Days of Summer,” and today we will talk about two of the canines that make their home here in Ohio- the red fox and the gray fox! The red fox is the larger and taller of the two species and is traditionally known for its bright red fur and black “socks” on its legs, though its coat can have color variations of black, silver, and brown. The enormous bushy tail of the red fox ends in a white tip. The gray fox is smaller and has a grizzled silvery gray coat with reddish patches on the chest and sides and white marking on the face. A black stripe runs along the top of the tail. The gray fox’s snout is shorter and more catlike than that of other foxes. The gray fox also has specialized claws that allow it to climb trees! To stay cool in the heat both species of fox will seek shade and even dig or use holes in the ground. Since their fur coats prevent them from being able to sweat through their skin, they pant just like our domestic dogs to release excess heat. Their coats are also much thinner during the hot months, as they begin shedding their thick winter fur in the spring, giving them a sleek summer look. Both foxes are omnivores and eat a wide range of foods, including rodents, birds, reptiles, insects, eggs, fruits, and plant material. In the heat of summer they target berries as they provide extra hydration in addition to being a tasty treat. You might not be digging holes in the ground, but we hope you find ways to stay cool like a fox today!
