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National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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The Hidden Architecture Behind a Wildlife-Friendly Garden at the Zoo

Zoo teams transformed the yards outside the Bird House into a thriving, wildflower-filled garden that attracts birds and other wildlife. Find out how they did it.

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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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'Little Critters' Drop-In Program Lets the Smallest National Zoo Visitors Play Hands-On With Nature

At the Smithsonian's National Zoo's Little Critters: Nature Play area, young children and their caregivers can have fun with free, nature-based play activities

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Black-Footed Ferret Webcam Launches on National Zoo Website

Viewers can watch a litter of black-footed ferrets and their mother, 2-year-old Aristides, on a temporary live webcam.

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Young Pandas Seem ‘Very Interested In Each Other’, Say Keepers at National Zoo

Bleats and chirps between two giant pandas are a sure sign that flirtatious feelings are in the air! Read all about the 'bears and the bleats' in this update from the Zoo's panda keeper team.

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Meet the Bat-Eared Fox, an Unusual Animal That Can Hear Insects Burrowing Underground

Get to know the bat-eared fox, an insect-eating creature found in the grasslands and savannas of Africa (and also the Smithsonian's National Zoo.)

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Leaf-Tailed Gecko Treated With Chemotherapy Regimen at National Zoo

Veterinarians performed the innovative treatment on a 4-year-old Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko, a species at the fringes of zoo medicine.

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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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Why Do Shorebirds Stand on One Leg?

It's a question visitors ask staff all the time at the Smithsonian's National Zoo's Bird House. The answer may surprise you!

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Maned Wolf Program at the National Zoo's Research Campus Welcomes Three Pups

The three baby wolves were born this winter at the Smithsonian National Zoo’s conservation and research campus in Front Royal, Virginia.

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