White Stork

Species: White Stork
Habitat: The Old World
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Tree of Life Gardens

On a hidden path behind the Tree of Life, one can find these graceful birds living along the Discovery river. They are nearly a global species being found throughout the old world. It is a long distance migrant, breeding in Europe (all the way to Finland), northern Africa and Southwestern Asia, while wintering in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian subcontinent. When traveling from Europe though, it detours around the Mediterranean sea, over the straights of Gibraltar.

Like all storks, it has a long beak, neck and legs, to help catch its food, insects, reptiles and amphibians. They are quite social, with sometimes thousands making up a flock in migration. Although the social structure is loose, there is behavior like allopreening that helps maintain bonds, They also make a noise called bill clattering that sounds like a machine gun and is made with a rapid clicking of the bill amplified by a throat pouch.

In the 1980s, this bird was considered Near Threatened but it is now classified as of Least Concern. Due to its widespread distribution, it is the focus of many cultural stories. Not the least of which is the belief in European folklore that storks delivered newborns. German folklore had storks finding babies in caves only to bring them to deserving parents. Slavic folklore held that storks carried unborn souls to Earth. Because one stop on migration routes was Mecca, the bird is revered in Islamic cultures. In Ancient Egypt, the bird was associated with the hieroglyph for soul. Also, this one species is focus of at least three Aesop fables.

Sumatran Tiger

Species: Sumatran tiger
Habitat: Broadleaf forests, swamps and grasslands of Sumatra
Status: Critically endangered
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle Trek

One of the newest species to call Animal Kingdom home is also one of its rarest. This species of tiger is found only in isolated pockets on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. It is the smallest of the 5 remaining subspecies of tiger which is likely due to living in the dense undergrowth of the Indonesian jungle. Full grown males top out at about 300 pounds, compared to Siberian tiger males that can exceed 600 pounds. They are distinguishable not only by their size but by their large dark stripes and deeper color of orange.

Like all tigers, they hunt and generally live alone. They kill by stalking their prey until they are close and can ambush. The dinner menu includes the large mammals of the island, such as deer and boar. They are also good in water, as Sumatran tigers have partially webbed toes.

Mothers give birth to up to 5 cubs. These cubs weigh only about 2 pounds and are blind. After 2 months, the mother starts to wean them from milk and begins introducing meat. The cubs will stay with the mother until about 18 months of age when they are ready to find their own territory.

Like all tiger species, they suffer from illegal poaching for fur and Asian folk medicines even though it is illegal in Indonesia. Penalties of fines and jail time are significant for tiger poaching but it is difficult as law enforcement is very understaffed with a bare bones budget. There are only between 300 and 400 animals left in the wild and they are in fragmented gene pools due to heavy deforestation on the island. Genetic diversity is becoming an increasingly difficult problem. The deforestation and population growth has led to another serious issue - increasing conflicts with man. Attacks on people are more common now simply because there are more people near tiger habitat. There are also increases in the number of livestock killed by tigers as food for the cats runs out. It is becoming an untenable situation.

Blue tongued skink

Species: Blue tongued skink
Habitat: Woodland and Forests of  Eastern Australia
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Rafiki's Planet Watch

The name of this lizard comes from, as I am sure you can guess, its bright blue tongue. The animal uses it as a defensive measure, essentially trying to freak out would be predators with its bright color accompanied with a viscous hiss. The species found at the Animal Kingdom is common in eastern Australia. There are other types of blue tongued skinks are found throughout the continent and Indonesia.

These animals are omnivores eating all types of plant and flesh. They commonly eat insects, snails, flowers and fruits. They do not have teeth but the jaw is powerful and can cling onto adversaries including potential predators. They are typically diurnal using the sun to heat up and search for food. It can, like some other lizards, detach the tail in an emergency. It will eventually grow back.

Most species of the blue tongued skink are doing well with stable populations. They are very popular in the pet trade, due to their gentle demeanor and relatively easy care. Despite this popularity they are still quite common in the Australian wild.

Rhinoceros Iguana

Species: Rhinoceros Iguana
Habitat: Caribbean Island of Hispaniola
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: The Oasis

These lizards can grow over four feet in length and will range in color from steel grey to dark green or brown. The name comes from the stub, or pseudo-horn on the end of its snout. They also have pointed short scales from the neck to the end of its tail.

They eat mostly leaves, flowers and fruits. Some fruits rely on the animal for distribution. It was found that the local fruits germinate faster passing through the digestive system of the iguana. They are, in fact, the largest herbivores on the island. Males are fiercely territorial, mating with females that pass through their area.

Located on the island of Hispaniola, they are more common in the Dominican Republic. In Haiti, deforestation has become a major issue although they are somewhat common in the nation's parks. There are between 10,000 and 15,000 left in the wild, but are a common species in the pet trade.

Addax

Species: Addax
Habitat: Sahara Desert
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

Addax are hearty animals living in the nearly barren desert of northern Africa. They are well adapted to that environment. Their beautiful fur is light, reflecting the scorching sun. Their hooves are widely splayed to make it much easier to traverse the sandy landscape. They can survive without free water almost indefinitely, getting their water directly from the plant life they eat.

Pregnancy lasts nine months, usually with the mother giving birth to a single calf. At first, the newborns lie in the sparse vegetation of the desert (which is what the adult animals eat). The newborn will come out periodically only to nurse until it is big and strong enough to follow its mother. The herd is typically between 5 to 20 animals.

In the wild, the addax is virtually extinct. It is likely there are less than 200 animals in its former range, where in the 1800s it was quite plentiful. The massive decline is mostly due to over hunting. Leather from its hide was highly regarded. It is now considered critically endangered.

Nyala

Species: Nyala
Habitat:Lowlands of Southern Africa
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

The nyala is a common species of antelope in southeastern Africa. There it eats fruits, flowers, and trees. During the rainy season, the animal eats mostly grasses. They feed mostly at night or early in the morning. During the heat of the day, they will rest in the shaded thick bush.

Nyala are a good example of sexual dimorphism. That is, the males and females look much different. Females are a chestnut color while the male is a greyish, brown with spiraling horns. They are also much larger. They live in small groups but will mix with other species such as the impala and kudu for protection. The more animals there are together the more likely a hunter will be spotted. The major predators are, of course, hunting dogs, leopards and lions.

Currently, there appears to be about 35,000 nyala throughout their range. Fortunately, about three quarters of the population lies within national parks and reserves. Hunting, habitat loss and agriculture still pose a threat to the long term survival of the species but it is currently listed as Least Concern.

Blue-throated Macaw

Species: Blue-throated Macaw
Habitat: Savanna of Bolivia
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Winged Encounters

The Blue-throated macaw has a limited range. It is found only in North central Bolivia. There, small clusters of palm trees dot the savanna landscape. In these clusters lives this species of macaw. These birds not only roost in these trees but also eat the palm's fruit, which make up a large portion of its diet. Other species of macaws as well as woodpeckers, toucans, and barn owls compete with the blue-throated macaw for space to nest.

This species of macaws are most commonly found in pairs. However, they will occasionally congregate in larger groups. Even still, the birds mate for life. In fact, it is unknown if they will find another mate if their current one dies.

Recent studies show only 350 to 400 individuals left in the wild, making the species Critically Endangered. The biggest culprit of their demise has been the pet trade, much like all macaw and parrot species. However, the blue-throated variety does have the added problem of having a naturally limited range. Fortunately, they do well in captivity and there are over 1000 birds in zoos and other facilities.

Pink Backed Pelican

Species: Pink Backed Pelican
Habitat: African lakes, rivers, estuaries
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Kilimanjaro Safari

The pink-backed pelican is actually rather small in the pelican world. Its name is derived from the pinkish hue on, not surprisingly, its back. Its also well known for its bouffant of feathers on top of its head. This grows only during breeding season.

Its found throughout Africa in its lakes, rivers and swamps. It will nest in colonies in trees, typically mangroves. One tree will sometimes have multiple nests close together. Pairs bond for one season.

This species is widespread throughout the continent, and as such is listed as of "Least Concern." However, in areas, the population is in trouble, especially in South Africa. It's also now extinct in Madagascar. As it lives near water, that can often mean conflict with humans, who also tend to live in those areas.

Four-striped Grass Mouse

Species: Four striped grass mouse
Habitat: African savanna and desert
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Pangani Forest Trail.

Found in the research station of the Pangani Forest Exploration trail is this unassuming little mouse. It is found throughout throughout the southern half of the continent going as far north as the Congo.  It is numerous enough to be listed as of Least Concern. They are relatively small, just slightly larger than a house mouse. The name, of course, is self explanatory, having four striped on its back.

Unlike many rodents, these guys are diurnal being mostly active in the mornings and early evening. Living in dry conditions, they have adapted to survive without water, as long as their food has about 15% water consistency. The food is typically seeds, vegetation and even insects.

 They are seasonal breeders being reproductive from spring to autumn. After less than a month gestation, the mother will give birth to approximately 5 young. They will begin to eat solid food in about 10 days and be fully weaned in just over two weeks.

Hyacinth Macaw

Species: Hyacinth Macaw
Habitat: Swamps and Woodlands of S. America
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Winged Encounters, Flights of Wonder

The hyacinth macaw is native to eastern South America, in Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. It avoids dense jungle but is found in swamps and more open woodlands. In some parts of its range, its even found in open grasslands. Nesting- typically from July to December- occurs on cliff faces or in tree cavities. Clutches are usually one perhaps two eggs, where incubation lasts about a month. It feeds mostly on nuts.

The hyacinth is the largest of the macaws and the largest flying parrot. Only the kakapo, a flightless parrot from New Zealand, is larger. Its feathers are almost entirely blue, although it can be a touch grey in spots. The blue is contrasted sharply by the yellow skin around the mouth and eyes.

This species has been known to use tools. More specifically, it will take a chewed leaf into its mouth to help keep the nut in place as it tries to break it.

This species is currently listed as vulnerable. The biggest issues, like with all macaws, are the pet trade and habitat loss. It is estimated that over 10,000 of these birds were captured in the 1980s alone for the trade. Habitat loss is mostly contributed to farms.

Bar-headed goose

Species: Bar-headed goose
Habitat: Central Asian lakes
Status: Least concern
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle trek

This water fowl spends the summer in the mountain lakes of Central Asia including Mongolia and Russia. It will winter in South Asia, crossing the Himalayan mountains in the process. As such, it is one of the highest flying birds having been reportedly spotted above Mount Everest - I don't know if they avoid the Forbidden Mountain though. Many of the migrant birds do tend to stick to lower valleys in their journey, however.

The goose is a ground nester. They have large colonies at various places in Indochina where they tend to prefer cultivated fields. Here, more dominant female birds get the better sites. However, those females lower on the pecking order (get it) will sometimes lay their eggs in the more dominant bird's nest.

The bird is popular in zoos due mostly to its beauty. Its pale grey and white feathers are a stark contrast to the bands of black on its neck and face. Also, it does very well with other birds in a mixed species exhibit.  It is, however, doing relatively well from a conservation standpoint being listed as of "Least Concern."

Paroon Shark-Catfish

Species: Paroon Shark-Catfish
Habitat: River basins in Southeast Asia
Status: Critically endangered
DAK Locale: Discovery Island Trails

This large fish is a member of the shark-catfish family. It is not a shark. Instead, its name comes from the shark-like dorsal fin on the top of its body. Otherwise, it doesn't really resemble a shark at all, although it is a massive fish. It has been known to grow over 7 feet in length and can weigh over 600 pounds.

It is found only in 2 river basins: the lower Mekong in Indochina and the Chao Phraya in Thailand. In his habitat, it feeds mostly on crustaceans and smaller fish. It is migratory and will spawn just before the monsoon season which begins in July.

Due mostly to overfishing, the species is considered critically endangered. Scientists estimate the population has declined 99% over the last 50 plus years. Locally, it is a popular food and is often found in the market. Indeed, the activity of actually fishing for the animal carried religious significance in some areas. It is also harvested for the aquarium trade which has contributed to its rapid decline in the wild.

Black Tree Monitor

Species: Black Tree Monitor
Habitat: Aru Islands Forests
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Rafiki's Planet Watch

The black tree monitor, named for its black scales, is found only in the forests and swamps of the Aru Islands off New Guinea in Indonesia. For some time, it was considered a subspecies of the closely related Emerald Tree Monitor. However, since 1991 it has been considered its own species.

At birth, the lizard is a dark grey with yellow-green spots on its back. The scales gradually turn black and the spots fade. Generally, they can be large as about four feet with males being bigger than females. The tails are long - about two-thirds the size of the body. Its prehensile and helps with its tree dwelling life. The feet have large claws and adhesive pads for helping climb and live in trees.  They are carnivorous eating other lizards, small mammals, and insects.

The species is vulnerable due to its very limited range and habitat loss. It is also popular in the pet trade with most animals being wildly caught instead of born in captivity.

Green Poison Dart Frog

Species: Green Poison Dart Frog
Habitat: Rainforests of Central America
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Rafiki's Planet Watch

This species of poison dart frog is one of the most variable. It comes in numerous different patterns although always with green and black coloration. It is also sometimes called the green and black poison arrow frog, or the mint poison frog. The name poison dart comes from the use of its powerful poison by the native people in darts and arrows. Just a small amount of its secretion will make a full grown human ill.

They are arboreal. Their toes have sucker like discs to help grip trees. They eat, sleep, and court in trees. It is, however, not a good jumper.

Like all poison dart frogs, the species gathers in large groups before mating, bickering for territory. Males make out small clearings for themselves with females wandering through. Males will try to impress females with their singing which sounds similar to bird calls.

Although they are quite popular in the pet trade, mostly due to their small size and intricate color patterns, they are not endangered.

Puerto Rican Boa

Species: Puerto Rican Boa
Habitat: Rain forest of Puerto Rico
Status: Endangered
DAK Locale: Rafiki's Planet Watch

The Puerto Rican boa is a terrestrial snake native exclusively to the island of Puerto Rico. It is one of the rainbow boas of the New World and, as such, is a true boa. It grows to 6 to 9 feet.

It feeds on birds, mammals and reptiles. Like all boas, it kills its prey by coiling around the potential meal. It continues to squeeze until suffocating the victim. The meal is then swallowed head first. This species of boa prefers caves. Thus, bats make up a large portion of the diet.

The species has been effected by the introduction of the mongoose to the island's habitat. At the beginning of the last century, the boa was nearly wiped out. It was also hunted and the loss of its forest have also contributed to its decline. However, due to protective measures, it has begun to recover.

Pancake Tortoise

Species: Pancake Tortoise
Habitat: Scrubs/Savanna of East Africa
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Pangani Forest Trail

This tortoise has a very flat and flexible shell which make it look like a pancake. It lives in the rocky outcroppings of Tanzania and Kenya. The shell allows it to squeeze in amongst the rocks for shelter from both predators and the heat of the sun. It is native to southern Kenya and northern Tanzania, but there is also an introduced population in Zimbabwe.

The animal lives in isolated colonies amongst the kopjes of its home. These rocky outcroppings are similar to the lion exhibit of the Kilimanjaro Safaris and dot the landscape of the east African. Males will fight over females during the breeding season which is typically in January and February. Females lay one egg in a sand nest near the colony which is a slow reproductive rate for tortoises and contributes to it being listed as a Vulnerable species.

The pancake tortoise is surprisingly fast and get back to its crevice to avoid potential predators. Their flexible shell allows them to move deep into the kopje. They are most active in the early morning and early evening hours to avoid the heat of the sun. Their diet is mostly grass and other vegetation.

The unusual appearance of the animal makes it popular not just in zoos but also private collections. That along with habitat destruction has left the animal vulnerable to being endangered according to the IUCN. Both countries where it lives, however, are taking action to help their populations. It is illegal to export them from Kenya and Tanzania is actively protecting them including within the confines of its world renowned Serengeti National Park.

Hamerkop

Species: Hamerkop
Habitat: Wetlands throughout Africa, Madagascar and the Middle East
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Pangani Forest Trail

The Hamerkop or Hammerkop is a wading bird found all throughout the continent of Africa including the island of Madagascar and Arabia. The shape of its head is very reminiscent of a hammer and gives this birds its name. It is quite unique being the only member of its family, although it is generally thought the bird is somewhat related to pelicans.

One feature of this bird's behavior is the forming of "ceremonies." Groups of up to 10 birds gather and form circles calling loudly. They will also raise their crests and flutter their wings during this ritual. They are also known for their huge nests, which often can support the weight of a man. Not only that, but they are compulsive builders, building 3 to 5 nests every year whether they are breeding or not. Many animals from owls to snakes use these nests when abandoned.

They tend to feed during the day and roost at night. When feeding, they tend to be alone or in pairs. They eat mostly amphibians but also insects and fish. They will silently wade into water and hunt using their feet to flush out potential prey.

These widespread birds are the source of different legends often focused on the huge nests. In one culture, it is believed lightning is formed whenever anything tries to steal a hammerkop's nest. In Madagascar, it is felt that one contracts leprosy if they disturb a nest.

Victoria Crowned Pigeon

Species: Victoria Crowned Pigeon
Habitat: Swamps and Jungles of New Guinea
Status: Vulnerable
DAK Locale: Maharajah Jungle Trek

The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is a very distinctive looking bird. It is a ground dwelling animal that is quite large and grayish blue. It has lace like feathers crowning its head. It also has a very unique call, as it makes booming whooping noises heard in its jungle home. It is named after the British monarch, Queen Victoria.

Its feathered crest has white tips. The chest has a deep purple coloration and there are bands under the wings. This is the largest of the crowned pigeon species, all of which are ground birds that inhabit New Guinea which is known for the uniqueness of its bird species. These birds live in the wet jungles and swamps of northern New Guinea and the surrounding islands. They live pairs or small groups traveling the forest floor in search of fallen fruit, its primary food source. They tend to travel at a slow pace. When threatened they fly straight up into the canopy and wait for the danger to pass.

The species is listed as vulnerable, although it is quite popular in captivity due to its beauty. The biggest threat is habitat loss as the forest continues to be logged. It is also extremely tame and unafraid of humans which makes it easily hunted for food as well as for its distinctive feathers.

Ornate Spiny Tailed Lizard

Species: Ornate Spiny Tailed Lizard
Habitat: Deserts of Africa
Status: Least Concern
DAK Locale: Pangani Forest Trail

This medium sized lizard has a stubby body and short powerful legs. There are a row of spiky scales on the tail, hence it name. Of all the spiny tailed lizards, this species has the largest tail. This species also varies greatly in color, with some being more "ornate" than others. The male is generally more colorful than females. Most have yellow spots or yellowish cross bands on the back.

This species eats mostly leaves, seeds and flowers, although it supplements that with an occasional invertebrate. It is active during the day, basking in the sun to give it energy to eat. They live in small groups of one male and several females. Males will sometimes turn females on to their backs and then walk over her abdomen. The reason for this strange ritual is unknown. Typically, females lay up to 15 eggs in June, which then hatch about two months later. Four days after hatching, the young leave the nest.

The species is found in the northeastern Africa as well as the Middle East. It thrives in the desert where it finds shelter among rock crevices. Its considered to be of "Least Concern" especially in Africa. There are local populations especially in the Middle East where they are low in numbers.

to contact Safari Mike use Twitter: @JamboEveryone

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.