Owner Relinquished

What does it mean?

Animals in our exhibit that have been owner relinquished have been brought to us because a person either does not have the time, equipment, space, or ability to properly care for the animal.

Owner Relinquished

Animals

There are times we all wish we could own a rare and special animals. However, not all of these animals are meant to be raised and live in a domestic environment. Their care and needs are higher than the owner initially thought they could handle. When this is the case, there are times we have been able to accept the animal into our zoo. These animals have been domesticated and cannot thrive in the wild. These animals are then used to teach the community more about the species, their habitat and the importance they bring to our ecosystem.

The red-eared slider is a popular turtle native to the Southern United States and northern Mexico, known for the bright red markings behind its eyes. While once considered great pets, many were released into the wild after owners realized their long lifespan and care needs. Their adaptability and skill at finding food have made them invasive in many areas, often outcompeting local turtle species. In the wild, they enjoy basking on rocks or logs and swimming in ponds and lakes. If you want a turtle as a pet, keep it at home!

Bumblebee dart frogs are vibrant and colorful, displaying shades of yellow, gold, or orange with striking black or brown patches. They have adhesive pads on their toes for climbing trees and plants and sticky tongues for catching insects and small bugs. Found in tropical rainforests, these small frogs thrive in warm, humid environments. Known for their loud chirping calls, they are not only beautiful but also play a vital role in their ecosystems!

The Black and White Argentine Tegu is the largest tegu species, known for its striking black and white coloration and beautiful patterns of black bands across its body. Males have larger jowls, or "chubby cheeks," to attract mates. These reptiles have a forked tongue, which helps them detect scents from various directions, enhancing their awareness of their surroundings. Terrestrial creatures, tegus are excellent diggers, skilled at finding food and shelter!

Goldfish are freshwater fish that are popular aquarium pets. They are known for their large eyes, lack of scales on their heads, and elongated bodies. Goldfish can come in many colors, including gold, red, orange, white, olive green, and grey.

Koi, or more specifically Nishikigoi, are colored varieties of carp that are kept for decorative purposes in outdoor koi ponds or water gardens.

Corn snakes are small to medium-sized, usually orange or brownish-yellow with reddish spots outlined in black. Their bellies have a black-and-white checkerboard pattern. Non-venomous and gentle, they come in various colors and are popular pets.

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