Meet Carl the Burmese Mountain or Brown Tortoise ( Manouria emys )!

The Burmese Mountain Tortoise is considered to be the fourth largest species of tortoise on the planet , reaching weights of 50-70 pounds . Some specimens in captivity can even reach 100 pounds .

This species is native to Myanmar ( formerly Burma , hence the common name ), as well as Malaysia , Thailand and Sumatra . Primarily crepuscular ( which refers to their habit of heightened activity and feeding at dawn and dusk ), they become very personable in captivity and require a lot of space . Typically herbivorous , this species of tortoise has also been known to feed on carrion . One of the most interesting behaviors of this very primitive tortoise is the females ' nest guarding of the eggs .

Stop by the Wildlife Discovery Center and visit Carl and his red-footed tortoise friends in the North Exhibit Hall , where they share a large exhibit .

SATURDAY ZOOKEEPER ( 9-14Y ) Since 1997 , this program has provided opportunities for children to learn the complexities of caring for animals in captivity as well as putting those skills to use . Children learn proper handling , care and feeding , and biology of many animals as well as other aspects of captive animal management . One off-site field trip broadens their learning experience . Older students have an opportunity to develop their leadership skills while mentoring younger participants .

CODE DAYS DATES TIME R / NR 30940101-01 Sa Jun 17 - Jul 22 9:00 am - 10:30 am $ 300 /$ 368

BIRD EXPLORERS ( 13Y +) Whether you are interested in learning birdwatching techniques , or wish to enhance your skills , these three sessions will provide an excellent opportunity . Binocular technique , identification methods and other field practices will be taught . The first two sessions will take place in the Middlefork Savanna , adjacent to the Wildlife Discovery Center . The savanna is home to more than 200 different bird species . Kayaks will be provided to explore the Lake Michigan shoreline for the third session .

CODE DAYS DATES TIME R / NR

7:00 am - 8:45 am $ 25

FAMILY FUN CAMP OUT ( ALL AGES ) Bring the family down to Forest Park Beach for a night of camping . Pitch a tent and get ready for an evening of family fun ! The Wildlife Discovery Staff will host a reptile show and local astronomers will teach participants how to use telescopes ( provided ) to observe the night sky . Try your hand at metal detecting , watch a movie in the pavilion , or just enjoy the campfire . Saturday night and Sunday morning meals will be catered by the popular Chef Steve Chiappetti from Purely Simple Kitchen . This is the only night of the year that camping is allowed on the Lake Forest Beach so , don ’ t miss out on this unique family bonding experience !

CODE DAYS DATES TIME R / NR 30390101-01 Sa , Su Sep 30 - Oct 1 5:00 pm - 8:00 am $ 327 /$ 393

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