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National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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Meet the Striped Skunk, America's Misunderstood Neighbor

They're one of North America’s most recognizable animals, but how well do you really know these fascinating creatures?

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7 Spooktacular Animal Facts for Halloween

Read on for some chilling curiosities from the creatures of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

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8 Fascinating Facts About the Cuban Crocodile, a Rare Caribbean Predator

They’re agile on land. Intelligent in behavior. And…they can gallop like a horse? Learn what makes Cuban crocodiles so extraordinary.

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Meet the Asian Small-Clawed Otter, an Adorable and Social Carnivore

There’s a lot to discover about the smallest species of otter — here are some fun facts about them.

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Meet the Eastern Red-Backed Salamander, A Tiny Environmental Hero

Next time you’re walking through fallen leaves in a forest, keep an eye out for the Eastern red-backed salamander—a small woodland creature with a huge role to play.

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How Do Birds Handle the Heat?

From scorching deserts to freezing oceans, birds around the world have developed incredible methods for regulating their body temperatures.

Black tree monitor (lizard) with dark coloration, an elongated body and a long, slender tail rests on a branch

Meet the Black Tree Monitor

Get the scoop on these intelligent, elusive reptiles

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8 Reasons to 'Bee' in Awe of Pollinators

Get the buzz on pollinators from an entomologist and animal keeper.

An aerial photo of two horseshoe crabs on the sand in shallow tidal waters

10 Incredible Horseshoe Crab Facts

Celebrate World Ocean Day on June 8 by learning about these ancient arthropods

Cheetah mother and cubs huddled together in the grass

Meet the Small but Mighty Microbiomes

Trillions of microscopic bacteria play an important role in keeping animals healthy

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Do Snakes Have Ears? And Other Sensational Serpent Questions

Get the scoop from an animal keeper who works with snakes

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50 Panda Facts to Celebrate 50 Years of Giant Pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo

The Zoo has been home to giant pandas since 1972!

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Watch: 10 Animal Videos That Topped Our List in 2021

Look back on a year of animal antics and conservation stories

Ring-tailed lemur standing on wooden platform with a flower

Stink Fights and Two Tongues? 5 Surprising Facts About Lemurs

Get the lowdown on lemurs from a primate keeper

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