Those looking to learn more about any native Virginia animal - living in or along the James River, and active day or night—will be delighted to discover the Maymont Nature Center.
Animals in the River
Animals along the River
The River at Night
Animals in the River
The James River Habitat includes 13 exhibit tanks containing 20,000 gallons of water and hundreds of fish, reptiles and crustaceans. The Habitat is designed to give the illusion of one continuous body of water, beginning with a 20-foot waterfall and continuing down to an always-amusing river otter habitat. More than 70 species of fish and turtles occupy the array of exhibits.
From the smallest darters and shiners to the largest catfish, each tank represents a different river environment and includes the species that correspond with that distinct area (ecological guild). In the Channel/Open Water area where the river slows, visitors discover large fish like smallmouth bass and an enormous blue catfish. Territorial behavior is one thing to watch for in the Predators Pool, full of memorable large fish and turtles including largemouth bass, flathead catfish and an amazing snapping turtle.
In the Estuary/Lower River Habitat, guests can learn more about the Atlantic sturgeon. The largest fish in the James River during Colonial Times, sturgeon provided food for both colonists and Native Americans. Over the years, it has virtually disappeared. Conservationists are working to restore this fish to the James—its natural spawning habitat.
<< TOP >>Animals along the River
The banks of the James are bustling with animals of different sorts. At the Terrariums, visitors come nose to nose with snakes, lizards, frogs and salamanders. Look through a Wentzscope that is focused on water and see the diversity of microscopic plants and animals that live in pond water. Take a peek into a glass-fronted log, home to a hognose snake. Look into rockwork potholes to glimpse crayfish.
The River at Night
The nocturnal gallery uses reversed light so visitors can see the behavior of the barred owl, screech owl and flying squirrel. Step lightly and listen carefully to take in the sounds of the night forest. Animals heard are identified when their backlit photograph is illuminated.
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