Veiled Chameleon

Like other species, veiled chameleons have large turreted eyes that are able to move independently, allowing the animal to look forward and backward at the same time! Chameleons are known for their ability to shift colors within their range of pigmentation according to their health, body temperature, and mood. A chameleon tongue can quickly extend to up to 1 ½ times their body length to grasp prey. The species (ours is captive bred) originates from Yemen and southern Saudi Arabia.

Blue-Tongued Skink

This lizard is common in Australia, and can be found in gardens and backyards there. This heavy-bodied animal can reach two feet in length. To surprise and frighten potential attackers, they display their vivid blue tongues and display a widely gaping mouth while puffing and hissing. In captivity they can be expected to live 20 to 25 years.

Corn Snake

This captive-bred individual is a partial albino. The species is found in the wild from New Jersey south to Florida and Louisiana, and is commonly raised in captivity. The name probably did not originate from an association with corncribs and barns, but more likely arose because the checkered markings on the snake's belly resemble Indian corn kernels.

Red-Footed Tortoise

This South American native is related to the giant tortoise of the Galapagos and is now uncommon in much of its former range. Our oldest resident tortoise is a long term captive, having lived in a New York City apartment for over 30 years before coming to live here at the Museum in 1987. The general estimate for tortoise life expectancy is around 100 years or more.