Gopher Snake

Reptiles > Snakes

OverviewThe Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer) is one of the largest, most ecologically vital, and widespread non-venomous colubrid serpents in North America. Ranging across prairies, scrublands, and deserts from the Pacific Coast to the Great Plains, this powerful,...

Desert Tortoise

Reptiles > Turtles & Tortoises

OverviewThe Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), specifically the Agassiz’s desert tortoise native north and west of the Colorado River, is an ancient, venerable terrestrial reptile belonging to the true tortoise family Testudinidae. An iconic emblem of the...

North American River Otter

Mammals > Carnivorans

OverviewThe North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) is an iconic, highly charismatic semiaquatic carnivoran belonging to the weasel family Mustelidae. Endemic to the waterways, lakes, and coastal estuaries of the North American continent, this playful and...

Cecropia Moth

Invertebrates > Insects

The Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora cecropia), also known as the robin moth, is the largest native insect and giant silkmoth found in North America. Boasting a breathtaking wingspan that can exceed seven inches, this magnificent member of the family Saturniidae is an...

Barred Tiger Salamander

Amphibians > Giant Salamanders

The Barred Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma mavortium) is one of the largest terrestrial salamanders in North America. Widely celebrated as the state amphibian of Kansas, this heavy-bodied, burrowing mole salamander is instantly identified by its bold, tiger-like vertical...