Nature Park and Botanical Garden

Bobcats, raccoons, and armadillos, oh my!
There are some amazing animals that are found right here in North America and, just think, they have animal relatives living in different places all over the world! But where can you find these animals all in one place? At our Nature Park & Botanical Gardens you will find a bobcat and his catty friends like an African Serval and a caracal. Our raccoons are found cavorting with their close relatives the Coatimundis and Kinkajous from Central and South America. Our Southern flying squirrels frolic with their larger Asian cousins the Prevost squirrels. We even have two species of armadillo; one of them found right here in Florida and the other is found in South American countries like Guyana and Chile! You can learn all about these animals, their habits and habitats when you meet the zookeepers. You might even get to ask the keepers questions if you arrive during feeding time!

Experience the Rainforest Aviary
Our 7,000 square foot Rainforest Aviary is fairly new. Walk the trail as you spot brightly colored parrots flying overhead and lush tropical landscaping throughout the habitat. Keep your eyes and ears open, as there is so much to see! Look over there – there’s a pair of birds nesting in that birdhouse. Ooh, ooh! I think I see some peacocks on the other side of the stream! You may even notice the Indian Ring-necked parakeet who sounds like a cat meowing, and the Blue-fronted Amazon parrot that might just say “hello!” if you listen closely!

Other Outdoor Exhibits
Watch the playful prairie dogs as they greet each other by touching their teeth together, the “prairie dog kiss”. You can even feed them a treat – remember to bring quarters as they always have a healthy appetite!

Then a stroll by our waterfall might be just what you need on a hot day! Keep cool while you visit the beautiful black swans and feed the turtles and fish that live in the misty ponds below the waterfalls. Next to the waterfalls, our Primate Pavilion currently houses ring-tailed lemurs and skunks (Don’t worry, they can’t spray you).

Small Animal Museum
A plethora of animals can be found in our small animal museum -- everything from bunnies & guinea pigs to baby alligators and more! Our Museum is home to our Reptile Room, where you will find interesting exotic snakes, frogs, toads, salamanders and even some creepy critters like the Giant Hissing Cockroaches from Madagascar.

Gator Slough
Come see Big Bertha, an 11-foot long female alligator, and her large friends at the Slough. (It’s pronounced “sloo” or “slew” in case you were wondering.) On the weekends the alligators are fed. Feedings are usually around 2:30pm, but call ahead as feeding times can vary.

Petting Zoo
Young or old, everyone loves to feed and pet the animals in our Petting Zoo. It is home to llamas, goats, chickens, turkeys, sheep and many other friendly farm animals. “Romeo”, our resident baby bull calf, is a favorite amongst the staff and children at the Nature Park and loves to have his chin scratched by anyone who’s willing! The newest member of our petting zoo is “Princess” the baby zebra who has become the star attraction. When you discover your favorite -- ask about “Adopt-An-Animal” at the ticket booth before you leave!

Native Plant & Butterfly Garden
When the weather is warm, you will see beautiful wild colonies of native butterflies fluttering by the Gardens. Monarchs, Gulf Fritillaries, Queens and even our State’s official butterfly “the Zebra Longwing” are found regularly in our park.

Looking to have a Party or Need Refreshments?
If you get hungry while you’re visiting, there is a dining area provided where you can bring your Capt’n Fishbone’s Restaurant takeout or sandwiches from Subway – as both restaurants are located on the Shell Factory Complex. Ask us about our Park Parties for birthdays and other special occasions! You can even picnic on the beach for lunch at the Nature Park and dig for shells!