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National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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Inside a Komodo Dragon Vet Exam at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Learn how Zoo veterinarians deliver expert care for an apex island predator.

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Hope Returns to Panama’s Forests With the Rediscovery of Four Missing Frog Species

Smithsonian researcher Brian Gratwicke and colleagues describe how acoustic technology aided the remarkable rediscovery of four amphibian populations thought to have vanished from Panama’s mountain forests.

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Scientists Use Climate Data to Map and Predict Outbreaks of Amphibian Chytrid Disease

Researchers may have a new tool in the fight to protect neotropical frogs from extinction, thanks to climate data.

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How Do Snakes Move Without Legs?

Snakes have adapted to climb trees, leap across hot sand, and even swim through water — all without arms or legs. What’s their secret?

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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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Rain, Rivers and Radiotrackers: Releasing Captive-Bred Harlequin Frogs Into the Wild

A team of scientists ventured deep into the rain-soaked Panamanian forest on a mission to restore wild populations of a critically-endangered amphibian.

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A New Leap in the Fight to Save Frogs

Scientists identify best practices for reintroduction of endangered and extinct amphibians in a new publication.

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After An Insect Detox, Can Once-Poisonous Frogs Get Their Spice Back?

Poison frogs living in human care aren’t poisonous, thanks to a “detox” diet of mild insects, like crickets and fruit flies. Can adding alkaloids to a frog’s diet help it regain its toxins and get its “spice” back?

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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Meet the Researchers Working to Save Wood Turtles

To ensure a future for these endangered turtles, scientists need to know how many are left

A close-up of a green tree python with orange-red eyes, small scales, a forked tongue and small put organs visible around its mouth

Do Snakes Have Ears? And Other Sensational Serpent Questions

Get the scoop from an animal keeper who works with snakes

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