The Wandering Disciple

At the Brevard Zoo, a pair of babirusa siblings engage in playful antics within their exhibit, showcasing the unique charm of these extraordinary creatures. Native to the lush, biodiverse Indonesian island of Sulawesi, the babirusa stands out with its distinctive anatomy and an appearance that blends features of both pigs and deer. The animal's very name, which translates to "pig deer" in native Indonesian, aptly captures this fascinating duality. The most striking characteristic of the babirusa, particularly the males, are their impressive, upward-curving tusks. Unlike most tusks, which are modified canine teeth, the babirusa's upper tusks actually grow through the top of the snout, emerging through the skin before curling back towards the forehead. The lower tusks also protrude outwards and upwards, creating a truly remarkable and somewhat otherworldly facial structure. These tusks are not typically used for fighting or foraging but are believed to play a role in di...

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving. We wish you an safe and enjoyable holiday.  To celebrate Thanksgiving, today's photo of the day is from Brevard Zoo and one of their resident turkeys. The flock of turkeys even have Thanksgiving themed names like Green Bean Casserole, Gravy, Giblet and Cranberry. Just a few weeks ago Green Bean Casserole and Giblet had three new offspring named Tater Tot Casserole, Sweet Potato Casserole and Cornbread Casserole. You can see the family of turkeys in the Wild Florida loop at the Brevard Zoo.  Taken: September 3, 2022 at Brevard Zoo (Melbourne, FL)

Melbourne, Florida The Brevard Zoo, nestled in Melbourne, Florida, offers an unparalleled and captivating experience for visitors of every generation. Spanning an impressive 75 acres, this conservation-centric zoo serves as a vibrant sanctuary for over 900 animals, representing an astounding 195 species from diverse corners of the globe. What truly sets the Brevard Zoo apart from many conventional zoos is its unwavering commitment to immersive exhibits and interactive encounters. This innovative approach fosters a more personal connection between guests and the magnificent wildlife that calls the zoo home.  At the core of the Brevard Zoo's mission is its profound dedication to conservation. The zoo is a proactive participant in, and a staunch supporter of, countless wildlife conservation programs, both on a global scale and within its local community. Their tireless efforts are focused on safeguarding endangered species and preserving their critical habitats. A shining example of t...