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.

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.

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.