Brazilian Salmon Tarantula

Species: Brazilian Salmon Tarantula
Habitat: Rainforest floor
Status: Unknown
DAK Locale: Rafiki's Planet Watch

The Brazilian salmon tarantula is also called the salmon pink tarantula or the bird eating tarantula. And, yes, this huge arachnid will prey on small birds and even snakes, although the majority of its diet is other insects and small mammals and reptiles. Like other tarantulas, the species does not spin webs. It is a hunting spider. It will lie still on the forest floor waiting for prey to pass by, and then it will strike quickly. It will hold its prey using its venom to partially digest it before actually eating the softened flesh.

When threatened it will rise up on its back legs and intimidate. Its bite while not usually deadly to humans, is quite painful. The hairs on its back have barbs which can be painful to potential predators especially near the eyes and mouth. It is large, considered either the second or third largest arachnid in the world. The name comes from the soft pink hairs found on its leg. The body itself is a dark color. Males are generally more reddish in color.

Because it breeds so well in captivity, this is a common pet. Females lay as many as 2,000 eggs which are cocooned in a silk sac. The female guards the sac for several weeks until the young are hatched.

The species has not be assessed by the IUCN. However, it is native to the Atlantic forest of Brazil. This forest is highly endangered and logged extensively. Many conservation groups are attempting to preserve this critical habitat and such efforts can only help this species.

Reeve's Muntjac

Species: Reeve's Muntjac
Habitat: Forests of China, Taiwan, SE Asia
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: The Oasis

This species of deer was named after John Reeves a member of the British East India tea company. It is sometimes also referred to as the Chinese muntjac. In fact, it is quite common there with an estimated 650,000 animals in that country alone. Other species of muntjac are not as lucky, with many endangered or even critically so. This species, however, is common place throughout its range.

Like its habitat in the Oasis, this species likes to live near water in forests. Its preference is to be in dense vegetation where it can use its small size to its advantage in escaping predators. They will also bark in the face of danger giving them the nickname the "barking deer."

Muntjacs are some of the smallest species of deer, with the Reeves' variety averaging a mere 16 inches in height. Its diet consists of fruit, leaves and tubers. Like all deer, their stomachs have four chambers to allow for the digestion of tough to digest leaves. It is mostly solitary although it is sometimes found in small groups.

It has glands just below the eyes that it uses to mark the borders of its territory. To that end, they are highly territorial. Females will give birth in the dense vegetation which acts as protection for the fawn. They are born with spots to aid in camouflage. Adults have a wide variety of colors from dark browns to nearly red or even yellowish. The antlers begin from just above the eyes with the sheaths clearly visible in that area of the face.

Tyrannosaurus Rex

Species: Tyrannosaurus Rex
Habitat: North American Forests
Status: Extinct
DAK Locale: Dinoland USA

The T-Rex was a large predatory dinosaur from the late Cretaceous period. In fact, it had a strong population throughout the North American continent as late as 65 million years ago. It was common at the time of the Cretaceous-Tertiary mass extinction.

It was one of the largest meat eaters that ever lived. Its thick four foot long jaw was perfect for tearing into the large herbivore dinosaurs that roamed the forests at that time. It was also prefect for crushing bone. In fact, bones have been found in its fossilized feces. It also had serrated teeth that likely allowed it to grip and tear off flesh in large chunks.

At its maximum, it was about forty feet long and perhaps as tall as 20 feet. It was likely quite fast thanks to its powerful thighs. The short arms probably allowed to hold prey but did not allow it to reach its mouth. Its huge head required a large heavy tail to keep its balance.

Scientists continue to debate the role the animal played in the ecosystem. Some believe the T Rex was a powerful predator. Others believe it was likely a scavenger as its teeth allowed it to break and chew bones. Plus, it seems to have had a strong sense of smell, a common feature in carrion feeders. But that is not the only debate amongst scientists. Some believe that infants may have been covered in feathers like some other closely related dinosaurs at the time. Others also believe that it may have even had a warm blooded metabolism.

In 1990, a paleontologist found a nearly complete (85%) fossil of the dinosaur. That fossil now appears at the Field Museum in Chicago. However, parts of it were worked on and restored at Disney's Animal Kingdom. A replica of the complete fossil is on display near the entrance to the Dinosaur attraction.

Ankole

Species: Ankole
Habitat: Savanna
Status: Domestic
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari/Animal Kingdom Lodge

One of the few domestic animals in the Animal Kingdom is the Watsui cattle or Ankole. It is a breed of cattle native to the plains of Africa. It is very distinctive thanks to its huge set of horns. These horns can measure up to 8 feet across. They are used not only for defense but as a cooling mechanism as there are many blood vessels within them. Still, when watching them from you room at Kidani Village they are quite impressive.

Ankoles are well designed for their habitat. They can survive on poor quality forage. They also need small amounts of water. They live in herds for protection from the predators of the region like lions and hyenas. Females cows keep tabs on the calves while others eat. At night, they typically sleep huddled together.

It is unknown exactly when the breed was developed. However, they are clearly depicted in Egyptian hieroglyphics. They are even seen in ancient rock paintings found in the Sahara. Many tribes have relied on the breed over the centuries. However, it is probably most closely associated with the Tutsi of Rwanda. The animal was food, currency and even a status symbol within the tribe. The breed is known as the Cattle of Kings.

Temminck's Fruit Dove

Species: Temminck's Fruit Dove
Habitat: Mountain Forests
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle Trek

This small bird is also called the pink-headed fruit dove, and for good reason. The male's head is a vibrant purple-pink outlined distinctly along the chest with black feathers. The female also has a pinkish hue on the head but not nearly as vibrant. As with so many other colorful birds, it is the male that is more distinctive in order to attract females.

These birds are found the mountain forests of Indonesia. Their range is restricted to Java, Bali and Sumatra. Despite its limited range, it not thought be endangered and is, in fact, listed as Least Concern. However, as its already limited habitat continues to be destroyed, the bird will likely face becoming a threatened species.

They do not build elaborate nests. Females lay only one or two eggs and incubation lasts about three weeks. Generally, they are seen individually or in pairs, however, small flocks have been noted. They feed on figs, berries and other small fruits from the canopy of the forest. Despite its colorful head feathers they are difficult to spot in the wild and are often difficult to study, as well.

Harris Hawk

Species: Harris Hawk
Habitat: Woodlands/Semi-Desert of SW America
Status: Least Concerned
DAK Locale: Flights of Wonder

The Harris Hawk, also called Harris's Hawk or the Dusky Hawk, is found in the American Southwest south to Chile and Argentina. It is at home in the semi-arid regions and sparse woodlands, although it can also be found in marshlands. They do not migrate. Males and females look essentially the same with dark brown plumage and chestnut shoulders. Females, however, are noticeably larger.

This raptor is notable for its hunting behavior. Unlike other birds of prey, they hunt in family packs. These groups can reach as many as six birds. In the desert, large prey like jackrabbits can take it brush. The birds will spread out in an attempt to flush it out, covering all escape routes. The prey is then shared. Harris hawks will also eat smaller mammals as well as reptiles and birds.

The hawk's habitat is shrinking but it has become somewhat common in developed areas. The bird is not currently endangered and is, in fact, very popular in the sport of falconry. It is considered a beginner bird as it is relatively cheap and easy to train. It is so common, in fact, that captive birds have escaped to create wild colonies in places such as Europe.

Hippopotamus

Species: Hippopotamus
Habitat: African rivers
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari & Pangani Forest

Hippopotamus is Greek for "river horse." As its name suggests, this animal spends a lot of time in the water. In fact, it is rare to see them out of the water at the Animal Kingdom. They tend to congregate in groups during the day, splitting up at night to eat. They follow trails to feeding grounds before heading back into the cool water before dawn. They secrete a red liquid from their pores that protects their skins from the sun, but they still tend to spend most of the daytime submerged. They are excellent swimmers and can remain underwater for five minutes. Their excrement is an important part aspect of aquatic plant life. However, their huge bulk can cause riverbank erosion leading some countries to begin culling programs.

Females become sexually mature around the age of 9, males at about 7. Females give birth to a single offspring (generally) and usually only become pregnant every other year. They are relatively long lived with hippos in captivity eclipsing 50 years of age. Hippos over 40, however, are somewhat rare in the wild.

As noted, hippos live in groups. Most being comprised of 10 to 15 animals of females and the young. However, there have been reports of herds in the range of 150 animals. Adult males tend to be solitary but that is not an absolute as small bachelor herds are known.

The hippo is listed as vulnerable. It has been hunted for meat, fat, hides and ivory teeth. In fact, the teeth's ivory does not yellow with age like an elephant's tusk making it more valuable on the black market. They also been hunted where they have damaged farmlands. Also, they are considered dangerous. It is believed that hippos may kill up to three thousand people a year. The species is wide ranging, however, being found in most areas of the continent.

Demoiselle Crane

Species: Demoiselle Crane
Habitat: Grasslands and wetlands
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Tree of Life Gardens

The demoiselle crane is found throughout Eurasia. They are migratory. The birds that summer in central Europe will winter in Africa. The cranes that summer in Central Asia, China and Mongolia will spend the cooler months in India and Pakistan. In northern India and Pakistan, the bird is known as the koonj and is important in the culture as a symbol of beauty and grace. It is also a symbol of perilous journeys in art and literature. It figures prominently in the Hindu epic, Ramayana.

They are found in a wide variety of environments in Europe, Asia and Africa. Typically, they prefer to be close to streams and lakes but will be found in grasslands and even deserts. They do use vegetation, however, to protect their nests which are on the ground. Like most cranes, their call is a trumpet like sound. They also have an elaborate mating dance.

The bird is perhaps most famous for its migration. The birds of central Asia and China cross the Himalayan mountains during their route. This is done in groups of as many as 400 although many die from hunger and fatigue. Wintering, these birds gather in groups that number in the thousands. Within these huge groups, smaller flocks maintain themselves. In one village in India, these massive flocks have become a tourist attraction as villagers feed the birds attracting thousands to congregate in the town.

Bontebok

Species: Bontebok
Habitat: Coastal grasslands of Western Africa
Status: Extinct in the wild/ Near Threatened
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

The bontebok is extinct in the wild. At one time, thousands roamed the plains of South Africa, but the animal was extensively over hunted. So much so, there were less than 20 left in the world. However, a park started by farmers, Bontebok National park, was established in South Africa to protect the species. The animal's continued existence now appears secure, but they are no longer found in the wild. They are restricted solely to parks, game reserves and even farms.

The bontebok feed on the short grasses found in the savanna. They will spend the morning and evening hours grazing. During the midday heat, the animals become less active facing the sun and bobbing their heads. Males guard territories fiercely from competitors. Females, however, form small groups with their young. Groups of young males also form as they look for their own territory and herds of females.

The bontebok's body is compact. The neck is short with a long narrow face with white fur. Both sexes have similar horns. Females tend to be slimmer but there is little else to show a difference in gender. Their coats are a deep red. Young are first tan before changing colors. Breeding season generally occurs between January and March. The lambs are then born in early Fall.

Abdim's Stork

Species: Abdim's Stork
Habitat: Plains of Central Africa
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Dinoland USA

The Abdim's stork is also known as the white-bellied stork. It was actually named after a Turkish governor of northern Sudan. Overall, its mostly black with a grey bill. There is some coloration on their featherless faces. During breeding season, faces become a bright blue. It is the smallest of all storks.

Its diet is mostly insects although small amphibians, fish and mice are also eaten. They are found in central and eastern Africa from Ethiopia to South Africa. It is a migrant bird moving south in the summer. Generally, it is considered a sign of good luck. It is considered a harbinger of rain, a good sign in the drier climates of the continent. The species breeds in colonies occupying cliffs, trees and even the roofs of huts. Colonies don't generally exceed 20 breeding pairs.

It is of least concern, that is not threatened. In parts of its range, habitat degradation is a concern, as farm lands have taken over. Also, its main food source in some parts is locusts, which are the subject to wide ranging poisoning.

Cycads

Species: Cycads
Habitat: Everywhere but swamps
DAK Locale: Dinoland USA

Cycads are ancient plants. They lived side by side with the dinosaurs and are still thriving today. And since then, the have changed very little. Back during the age of the dinosaurs, cycads were found all over the world. However, as the ice age began to grip the planet, these once dominant species were restricted to the tropics. They persevered and now can again be found in virtually every habitat except swamps.

They are diverse. Some thrive in the blazing sun, while others grow in the near complete shade of a forest undergrowth. Some species are widespread, yet others are very limited in their range. Size also varies greatly amongst this family of plants.

All cycads, however, are gymnosperms. That translates to "naked seeds," which represents the fact they do not produce fruit or flowers to cover their seeds. Pine and cedar trees are common forms of gymnosperms but they are not cycads. Cycads at the Animal Kingdom are found in Dinoland USA. One great spot to see them is the Cretaceous Trail. Along this somewhat hidden corner of Dinoland are numerous examples of the cycads so take the time to check them out.

Cotton Top Tamarin

Species: Cotton Top Tamarin
Habitat: Tropical and Secondary forests of Colombia
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Tree of Life

Around the Tree of Life and on the path to Rafiki's Planet Watch are exhibits of these small little animals from Colombia. It is one of the smallest primates in the world and one of the most endangered. To begin with, its range is limited to Northwestern Colombia and with habitat destruction it is now found in only 5% of its historic range. And it was used relentlessly in bio-medical research with tens of thousands being captured for that purpose. It is believed only 6,000 or so remain in the wild.

This animal is popular in zoos. Its is readily recognized for its tuft of white fur that starts on the top of its head and goes down its back. It is a diurnal animal, meaning it is mostly active during the day. Plus, it is quite social. In the wild, they form groups of up to a dozen, but only the dominant pair bears young, which is almost always twins. The dominant female releases pheromones that prevent other females from breeding. However, the group itself cooperates in almost all other aspects of life. In fact, this animal has been extensively studied for its seemingly altruistic behavior. Cotton tops also have a very sophisticated "language" which is acquired over time by the young.

These primates are omnivorous meaning they eat both plant and animals. In the case of animals, this limited mostly to insects but larger prey items have been recorded. However, it is a very important seed disperser in its native forests. A large portion of its diet is fruit. They ingest and void seeds at a higher rate than most of other fruit eaters, thereby helping the forest grow and thrive.

Roan Antelope

Species: Roan Antelope
Habitat: African savanna
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Jambo House

The roan is a large savanna antelope found throughout virtually all of sub-Saharan Africa although more are found in the western and central portions of the continent. They are found in both woodland and grassland based savannas. It is found even in the forests. Typically, they eat mid length grasses.

They are named for their reddish brown color and are similar in appearance to the closely related sable antelope, which have a deeper red coloration. They have lighter tones on the belly with females being lighter. They have curved horns that are ringed with male horns being somewhat longer and they arch slightly backward.

The animal forms harems of one dominant male and several females with groups numbering 5 to 15 animals typically. The males commonly fight for dominance of the harems. These fights generally occur while both animals are on their knees. They do not have fixed territories but males attempt to keep other males away from the herd. When a calf is born, the mother will hide it in tall grass and stick close to the area.

Roans are not endangered although they are regionally extinct in portions of its historical range. This is due to both over hunting and deforestation. There are approximately 76,000 left in the wild.

Green Peafowl

Species: Green Peafowl
Habitat: Southeast Asian Rain forest
Status: Endangered
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle Trek

The green peafowl is different from its more commonly seen cousin, the Indian peafowl, in that both sexes are similar in appearance. They both have scaly green feathers with bluish sides. They are much more silent then the Indian version. They are large birds, one of the largest of their genus.

The bird is found throughout Southeast Asia. This includes both primary and secondary forests in both tropical and subtropical climate. They are also found in bamboo forests and scrub lands.

The peafowl nests on the ground generally with 3 to 6 eggs. They do not pair bond. Instead, males form territories and keep harems within it. In contrast, in captivity, the bird forms monogamous bonds. In any event, in the wild, family units roost in trees. The diet consists of fruits, seeds, small animals and invertebrates. They have been known to even hunt venomous snakes. Ticks, termites, berries and flowers seem to be the preferred food choice.

Due to hunting for its plumage and habitat destruction, the bird is considered endangered. Its is believed there are less than 10,000 in the wild. It is the national symbol of Myanmar and was often used symbolically by the kings of ancient Burma.