Though the Aquarium is currently closed to the public, our animal care continues behind the scenes. We’re virtually turning our walls into windows and bringing you along to shadow our staff, and hopefully teaching you a little thing or two along the way!
We want to introduce you to Josh, our herpetologist at the Aquarium! Josh focuses on reptiles and amphibians residing at the Aquarium is (collectively called “herps” for you science folk). Snakes, turtles, tortoises, frogs and gators are his specialty, and boy do they keep him busy.
Let’s start with a little science lesson and spotlight some of the species he works with:
American Alligator
- Lives in freshwater wetlands from North Carolina all the way to Texas
- Can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and be 15 feet long (males, that is!)
- Can live up to 50 years in the wild
- Successfully removed from the Endangered Species List in 1987
Green Tree Frog
- Feast mainly on crickets
- Considered arboreal, meaning they climb and live in trees for much of their time
- Are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night
- Can lay hundreds of eggs at a time
Gopher Tortoise
- The only tortoise species naturally found in the Southeast
- Considered master diggers, as they can burrow several feet deep
- Create homes for hundreds of other species thanks to their burrow efforts
- Can live 70 years in the wild, and even longer in human care
Let's start with Josh offering enrichment to Sassy the skunk. 
Next, Josh target feeds the American alligators .
Tiger salamanders getting their cricket meal in backup
Frogs and toads need to be fed, too!
These turtles and tortoises are snacking AND social distancing! 
Josh taking a look at a spotted turtle x-ray with Dr. Shane In these trying times, we’re lucky to have staff, like Josh, that are so dedicated to ensuring our animals still receive top-notch care. Please consider donating to our Emergency Relief Fund to help us continue caring for our 5,000+ animals that call the Aquarium home.