Black-footed penguins
A colony of Black-footed penguins (Spheniscus demersus) entertain in a 30,000-gallon outdoor habitat. They are sometimes referred to as Jackass penguins because of their loud "hee-haw" braying. Native to South Africa, Black-footed penguins are considered to be subtropical birds. Penguins have more feathers than most birds (approximately 70 per square inch or 6 per square centimeter). They molt or lose their feathers once each year. Penguins cannot fly, but can swim up to 20 miles per hour (32 kmph). Up to 75% of their time is spent in the water. When they feel a need to "dry off", they can choose one of the many nesting areas in the rocks or sun themselves on the islands.

Green sea turtles
Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) are so named because of the color of their flesh. They are one of the largest sea turtles in the world, reaching lengths from 2-5 feet (71-153 cm) and weighing up to 452 pounds (205 kg). Males are larger than females. Both males and females look alike with a carapace that is olive to black in color. Green sea turtles live in waters from New England to South Africa and in the Pacific from Western Africa to the Americas. As adults, they are strictly herbivores or plant eaters, while during the juvenile phase; they also eat jellyfish and crustaceans. Only the females leave the water and only to lay their eggs in the sand. Even though more than 200 eggs may be laid in one clutch, some will not hatch and many will be eaten. Many of the hatchlings will be eaten on their way to the water, and in the water. This endangered species has many predators, including humans.

Tree aloe
Surrounding the lagoon are many species of unusual aloes and cactus-like plants. The Tree aloe (Aloe bainesii) is a succulent that is well adapted to the harsh climates of South Africa. The leaves that swell with stored water are shaped to cope with high winds and blowing sand. Large Tree aloes are very rare, due to the scarcity of rain limiting their growth.

Mother-in-law's tongue (Snake plant)
Mother-in-law's tongue (Sanseviera spp.) is also known as the Snake plant. It is a very common houseplant with long spiky leaves. They are mottled green in color with yellowish outlines. Pink and white flowers are produced in the spring.

Vulturine guineafowls
Vulturine guineafowls (Acryllium vulturinum) are native to Eastern Africa. They live in dry desert areas where they normally can be found in flocks of up to twenty-five birds. Vulturine guineafowls thrive on bright sun and heat and can go for long periods of time without water. Their main diet is grass, leaves and other green vegetation. These birds are often referred to as the "Royal guineafowl" because of their stately coloration.

Yellow-billed hornbills
Yellow-billed hornbills (Tockus flavirostris) are found throughout Africa in Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya. This fairly uncommon bird is often associated with the Dwarf mongoose. The Yellow-billed hornbill eats the insects that are disturbed when the mongoose forages. Old World hornbills are the counterpart of New World toucans.

Rock hyrax
Rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis) are native to most of the continent of Africa. These rock hoppers have strong legs and flexible suction cups of their feet which allow them to grip boulders and cliffs. They average 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) in length and weigh 3-12 pounds (.9-5 kg). Their coloration ranges from light gray or yellowish brown to dark brown. They are one of the Antillean manatee's closest relatives.