Our Animals
Ambassadors, influencing the importance of all species that make up the parks. Be sure to stop in and visit with them at the Nature Center, or experience an up close encounter during one of our animal programs!
Painted Turtles
Sisters Susie and Shelly are easily recognized by their beautiful, brightly-colored shells. Painted turtles are common within the park, and can often be seen basking on logs along the river. They use the sunlight to help them grow and digest their food.
False Map Turtle
Morton can be identified by the rings on his shell, which gives him the appearance of a topographic map. He enjoys long walks on the beach and basking in the sun with friends Susie and Shelly.
Fox Snake
Albert the Fox Snake has been with us since he was a baby. This species of snake is very common within the park and can grow large enough to eat rabbits though they prefer small rodents and birds. Albert is often mistaken for a rattlesnake but he is a non-venomous constrictor.
Corn Snake
Captivatingly-colored Clementine is not a Wisconsin native. Someone took her from her southern home and released her here in the cold. The Naturalist found her and they became fast friends. Clementine is also a non-venomous constrictor.
Yellow Spotted Salamander
Stubby, likes to smile and enjoys a good chunk of moss or decaying log to burrow under. When he came to us he was missing half his tail, which is where the nickname arose. He is currently working on growing it back!
Gray Tree Frogs
We have two! One Wisconsin native and one who hitch-hiked over on a camper from Tennessee. It's facinating to see the differences between the two. They are both masters of camouflage, changing colors depending on their mood or surroundings.
