What is a Mammal?
When it comes to the Animal Kingdom, there are so many different things to see and learn about! One of the most familiar classes (see our last blog post) of animals is Class Mammalia or mammals. But just what makes a mammal a mammal?
Shared Traits
Organisms on planet earth are classified through a chain of more and more specific groups based on their shared traits. For example, all animals are multicellular organisms that lack chlorophyll and a rigid cell wall. As mammals, we all share the traits of being warm-blooded, having live birth, having mammary glands, and having hair.
What do mammals look like?
Mammals look like a lot of different things! Humans are mammals. So are dogs and cats. Did you know that animals in the ocean can be mammals too? Manatees, dolphins, and whales are all examples of mammals that live in the ocean. Learn more about whales and dolphins at this awesome site https://us.whales.org/do-whales-and-dolphin-have-hair/
What mammals can I see at the SNC?
The Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital has dedicated the past twenty-six years to wildlife rehabilitation and environmental education. We specialize in native, Florida wildlife and due to our location against the Everglades, we see a lot of it. Sometimes we can’t always release the animals we take in due to permanent injuries or exotic species status. These animals are provided a permanent sanctuary at the SNC where visitors can come and learn about their importance to the environment.
Historically, the SNC has hosted a plethora of mammals including raccoons, opossums, squirrels, and even prairie dogs. If you are interested in learning about the animals we have here at the SNC stop by Tuesdays-Fridays 9 am-5 pm or Saturdays and Sundays 10 am-3 pm.
Want a private animal encounter?
Contact our education department at education@sawgrassnaturecenter.org to learn more about scheduling an educational animal encounter for your group today!