Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Diversity Day was held at the State Capitol today. Many species of wildlife, some live, some stuffed, and some animatronic were on display to educate the public on animal life in the Mountain State. Species varied from some being native to West Virginia and others originating from all over the globe. Representatives from the DNR as well as other ecologically friendly groups brought educational information, as well as made presentations on how to recognize animals and plants around the state and how to better preserve West Virginia’s natural beauty for generations to enjoy.
Pictured here is a Black Rat Snake which can be found in every county throughout West Virginia. These reptiles are known for their ability to habitate any region. As long as an area can accomodate the simple needs of food and cover, a Black Rat Snake can call that area home. Although the Black Rat Snake can feed on a number of other species, it prefers small mammals such as rats, which is how it got its name. Brave visitors who touched the Black Rat Snake could be seen throughout the halls proudly displaying stickers that read “I Touched a Snake Today.”
Next is Mr. T, a 60-year-old desert tortoise, from the Zoo at Oglebay Park in Wheeling, WV. The desert tortoise, a species of tortoise native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, can grow from 4–6″ in height and weigh 8–15 lb when fully grown. They also live to be 80-100 years old.
Also pictured (top) is Thunder, a female bald eagle from the West Virginia Raptor Rehabilitation Center in Morgantown, West Virginia. The WVRRC rehabilitates injured birds of prey along with continuing environmental education programs for the general public. As part of their outreach, the WVRRC offers presentations for schools and interest community groups. Thunder has been part of the WVRRC family since December 1992. She was hatched April 28th, 1992 and will be celebrating her 17th birthday next month.
