Tapir and Friends Animal Store (Realistic Stuffed Animals and Plastic Animals)

Ty Beanie Babies

2012-01-31T13:00:00.000-08:00

Sooo many to choose from!

About Our Beanie Babies

These Beanie Babies are made by Ty. They are previously owned, all clean and in excellent like-new condition with tags in place unless noted in the description. A few of the tags are slightly bent, but none are seriously damaged. If a slight bend matters to you, please ask. Write to us if you need a description or photo of an individual beanie, we'll be happy to help. These plush Beanie Babies are a very special kind of stuffed animal! So cute! There are even a few Teenie Beanie Babies, Ty Attic Treasures and Beanie Buddies at the end of the list. For a look at our entire inventory of stuffed animals, stuffed beanies and plush hand puppets, check out our Stuffed Beanies and Plush Puppets Page and Stuffed Animals Page.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Bighorn Sheep

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

This guy was rock-climbing long before it was a sport!

Our Plastic Bighorn Sheep Replica

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic bighorn sheep miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose. This bighorn sheep replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 3 1/4 inches long, with a white pelt. A necessity for any high-mountain school project! Check out our other sheep toys and gifts.

About Bighorn Sheep

The bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) is one of the most magnificent native animals found in North America. The bighorn sheep is named for the large dark brown curved horn borne by males. Females have horns also, but much smaller, less curved ones. Both sexes have dark brown bodies with a white rump. The bighorn sheep ranges in the Rocky Mountains, the West, Northern Mexico and parts of Canada. It once roamed freely, played an integral part in native lore, and was a staple in native diet. Today, due to overhunting and loss of habitat, the bighorn sheep is rarely seen.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Stegosaurus Skeleton Model

2012-01-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

These were as long as the bus you rode to school in!

Our Stegosaurus Skeleton Model

This realistic-looking stegosaurus skeleton model is made of strong plastic and is sturdy when assembled. It is 9 1/4 inches long and 4 inches tall. There are about 10 separate pieces, some large, with easy to follow assembly instructions and a diagram. The bones look weathered and connect with one another through pegs or joint sockets. Although most pieces hold together well, it may help to use a little super glue. This miniature stegosaurus skeleton replica makes a nice display, a gift, or toy for children or adults and could work well for school show-and-tell or as a school science project. Check out our other dinosaur model toys and gifts.

About the Stegosaurus

"Stegosaurus" meaning roof lizard, is an armour-plated dinosaur from the late Jurassic Period characterized by large spikes along its back. It was an herbivore that used its spikes for protection against predators. Stegosaurus had a distinctive and unusual posture, with a heavily arched back, short forelimbs, head held low to the ground and a stiffened tail held high in the air. It was thirty feet long and fourteen feet tall. Many skeletal remains have been found in Wyoming.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Mosquito

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

They buzz...they suck blood...they carry disease...what's not to like?!?

Our Plush Mosquito Replica

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed mosquito is soft and floppy. The wings are securely sewn onto the back and are made of a shimmery fabric which reflects the light in rainbow colors. The legs are long and gangly and are made of soft plush fabric allowing for a myriad of postions. The feet have soft plastic tips. Check out our other mosquito toys and gifts.

About Mosquitos

The word "mosquito" means "small fly" in Spanish (the word for "fly" is "mosca"). Mosquitoes (the plural can be spelled "mosquitos" or "mosquitoes") are any of a number of two-winged insects of the family Culicidae. The females suck the blood of mammals (inlcuding humans) and some mosquitoes transmit yellow fever and malaria.Usually, the "bite" results only in a small bump that becomes red and itchy for a few days. Mosquitoes feed on nectar, and neither the males nor the females need blood to survive. The blood provides protein for the development and laying of eggs. This is why only the females seek blood. The "bite" is not actually a bite. The mosquito injects a tiny feeding tube into the skin of the animal or human in order to withdraw blood. Mosquitos are believed to have evolved in the Jurassic Period (the age of large dinosaurs), but the first known fossils are from the Cretaceous Period (the last of the dinosaurs and an age when many new species began to proliferate), between 144 and 65 million years ago. There are currently about 3,500 species of mosquito worldwide. Some of their past ancestors were about three times the size of the mosquitos that live in the world today. Mosquitos usually shelter in shaded areas during the day and feed at dawn and dusk. They can also be active at night, and sometimes fly up to about 5 miles in a night.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Pteranodon Skeleton Model

2012-01-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine being buzzed by one of these?

Our Pteranodon Skeleton Model

This realistic-looking pteranodon skeleton model is made of strong plastic and is sturdy when assembled. It is 9 1/4 inches long and 9 inches wide. There are about 11 separate pieces, some large, with easy to follow assembly instructions and a diagram. The bones look weathered and connect with one another through pegs or joint sockets. Although most pieces hold together well, it may help to use a little super glue. This miniature pteranodon skeleton replica makes a nice display, a gift, or toy for children or adults and could work well for school show-and-tell or as a school science project. Check out our other dinosaur model toys and gifts.

About Pteranodons

"Pteranodon" means "winged and toothless." These flying reptiles were closely related to dinosaurs, but were technically not included in the same group. They lived during the late Cretaceous Period - one of the great ages of dinosaurs. Pteranodon stood about 6 feet tall (and some scientists believe they did stand upright), and had a wingspan of 25 to 33 feet - longer than any known bird. They had short tails, as you can see on our plastic pteranodon skeleton replica. Most pteranodon fossils have been found in Kansas and in England. Pteranodons fed primarily on fish, and may have scooped them out of the water the way a modern-day pelican feeds.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Billy Goat

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

He doesn't look Gruff, does he?

Our Plastic Billy Goat Replica

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic billy goat miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose. This billy goat replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 2 3/4 inches long with awhite pelt. A perfect addition to any barnyard scene! Check out our other goat toys and gifts.

About Goats

The domestic goat (Capra aegagrus hircus), is the earliest animal to be domesticated by humans. A goat is very useful to humans both alive or dead. Alive, goats can be used as a renewable provider of milk and fiber. Dead they can be used for meat and hide. Intestines of a goat can be used for making strings for musical intruments. Young goats are referred to as kids. Meat from a young goat is either called kid or cabrito. Goats are known for being willing to eat almost anything. While they may not actually consume everything, they are very curious and will taste anything resembling plant matter in order to decide whether or not it is good to eat.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Great White Shark

2012-01-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Another new addition to TPF! Say 'CHEESE'!

Our Plastic Great White Shark

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic great white shark miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica has a dynamic, realistic pose. This great white shark replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 3 inches long, with realistic grey skin and white underside. Ready to prowl in your toybox or school project! Check out our other shark toys and gifts.

About Great White Sharks

The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) can be found near the surface in warmer waters of the Pacific, the Caribbean, and along the coast of Africa. Great whites usually about 9 feet in length, but adults may be as much as 16 feet. They weigh around 2,000 pounds. Some sharks follow the migration of sea lions, which they find a most tasty prey. The great white has a large conical-shaped snout, a gray dorsal fin and a mottled white underside. Great white sharks, like many other sharks, have rows of teeth behind the main ones, allowing any that break off to be rapidly replaced. A great white shark's teeth are serrated and when the shark bites it will shake its head side to side and the teeth will act as a saw and tear off large chunks of flesh. Great whites often swallow their own broken off teeth along with chunks of their prey's flesh.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Woolly Mammoth Skeleton Model

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Japanese are working to bring these back!

Our Woolly Mammoth Skeleton Model

This realistic-looking woolly mammoth skeleton model is made of strong plastic and is sturdy when assembled. It is 10 inches long and 6 1/2 inches tall. There are about 16 separate pieces, some large, with easy to follow assembly instructions and a diagram. The bones look weathered and connect with one another through pegs or joint sockets. Although most pieces hold together well, it may help to use a little super glue. This miniature woolly mammoth skeleton replica makes a nice display, a gift, or toy for children or adults and could work well for school show-and-tell or as a school science project. Check out our other dinosaur model toys and gifts.

About Woolly Mammoths

The woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) first roamed the earth 150,000 years ago. The mammoth migrated from Africa northward into Europe, east through the Steppes of Asia, and then into the Arctic. During the Pleistocene Era (Ice Age), when temperatures were so much colder, the woolly mammoth developed thick shaggy hair, special glands to secrete fat to insulate the skin from the cold, and smaller ears and special teeth to grind tundra. The woolly mammoth developed huge curved tusks up to 15 feet long to shovel snow in order to reach tundra and grass below. The woolly mammoth is the most common mammal fossil. Some have been found in Siberia almost completely intact including tissue remnants. It is breathtaking to see the mammoth's skeleton on display in the museum.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic American Bald Eagle

2012-01-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

An amazing miniature of a noble creature!

Our Plastic American Bald Eagle

Made of solid plastic by Safari, Ltd., one of the best names in plastic toy animals, this american bald eagle measures 3 1/4 inches from beak to tail and is 2 3/8 inches tall. It stands balanced on its feet and tail. The word "EAGLE" is molded on the bottom. This sturdy, durable raptor is also excellent for school projects, novelties, party favors or even as a children's toy. You can make a wonderful birds of prey shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Best of all, there is no mess, no feeding, and no tank or cage cleaning :) Come look through our entire collection of eagle toys and gifts.

About American Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are large predatory sea birds who follow waterways to reach inland areas. They are found only in North America. Bald eagles can fly up to 30 mph, and can dive up to 100 mph.This explains why they are so adept at snatching fish out of the water with their feet. Mature bald eagles generally weigh between 9-12 pounds, with a wing span of about 7 feet. Bald eagles mate for life. A female usually lays 2-3 eggs a year. By three months of age, her young are able to fly, and are often on their own a month later. Bald eagles reuse their nests, adding more nesting material each time it is reused. Because of this, some nests reach as much as 10 feet across, and can weigh as much as 2000 pounds. Strict conservation efforts have enabled the bald eagle's status to be upgraded from "endangered" to "threatened" in the lower 48 states.

In May 2004, we visited the Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, Washington. One of the most interesting parts of our visit was the VERY GOOD animal presentation at their outdoor stage. One of the animals they presented was a beautiful bald eagle. We learned that when the eagle was named, the word "bald" didn't mean "hairless" as it does now; it meant someone with white hair. Now the eagle's name makes more sense! Below you can see a photo of the eagle I took that day at the presentation, where we were allowed to get close to the animals at the end of the talk. By the way, if you get a chance to visit, it's a really nice zoo in a marvelous natural setting. And be sure to see the animal presentation!

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Leaf-tailed Gecko

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Cute little dude, ain't he?

Our Plastic Leaf-tailed Gecko

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic leaf-tailed gecko miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has detailed skin and is painted in two shades of brown with distinct eyes. This leaf-tailed gecko replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other gecko toys and gifts.

About Leaf-tailed Geckos

The leaf-tailed gecko (Uroplatus phantasticus) is a species of gecko found only in Madacascar. It is sometimes called the satanic leaf-tailed gecko or eyelash leaf-tailed gecko. It lives entirely on the rainforest floor in the litter of leaves, where it is well camouflaged. It is suffering greatly due to loss of habitat and from illegal pet trade.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Dodo Bird

2012-01-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

A facinating creature from Earth's past!

Our Plastic Dodo Bird

Our realistic-looking plastic dodo bird brings ths marvelous extinct animal "back to life" in your school project or collection. It looks like the real thing and is a wonderful educational toy, useful for shoebox dioramas and other school projects, a collector's item, a gift for your favorite dodo (or dodo fan), and more. Made of solid, rubbery plastic, it measures 2 3/4 inches tall. The body is moulded to look like feathers that almost make it seem real. Its name is moulded into the underside as it is on many of our plastic animals. Be sure to see our other bird and extinct animal toys and gifts.

About Dodo Birds

The dodo, a flightless bird about 3 feet (or 1 meter) tall, was found in only one place in the world - the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar. It fed on fruit. The name of this bird is often equated with the condition of extinction - "extinct like the dodo," "dead as a dodo," "gone the way of the dodo bird." Within two hundred years of the arrival of Portuguese sailors on Mauritius in the 1500s, the dodo had become exterminated forever. The bird was last recorded alive in 1663. The starving sailors found the large dodo birds easy prey, as they were not afraid of humans and have been described as "clumsy." In fact, the name "dodo" comes from the word for "fool" in Portuguese. There is some disagreement over how much of the dodo's demise can be blamed directly on human consumption or whether it was the dogs, cats, rats, and pigs introduced to the island that destroyed their eggs. Both played a role. A number of dodos had been brought to Europe before their extinction, where they were variously drawn, painted, and stuffed. Like the bird itself, the dodo's remains, it seems, had also "gone missing," as no complete skeleton had been found for hundreds of years until the discovery by Dutch scientists of a dodo "mass grave" in 2005. Even a complete taxidermied dodo can no longer be seen, as the last surviving one in Oxford was seriously damaged. However, in recent years a slimmer replica has been made based on new data about the proportions of the bird. The dodo gained its place as the most famous extinct animal partly because of its appearance in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The dodo was a favorite of the author, "Lewis Carroll," whose real name was Charles Lutwidge Dodgson. It is said that he stuttered, and often pronounced his name "Do-Do-Dodgson."

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Bloodwood Turtles from Colombia

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Come see our new line of hand-carved Palo de Sangre turtles!

Our Bloodwood Animals

Palo de sangre is the Spanish name for this rich, red wood which is popular for making cultural handcrafts and art in South America. The English translation is "bloodwood." It is the heartwood of the trees Brosimum paraense and Brosimum rubescens. The sapwood is yellowish-white. According to Wikipedia, "Palo de sangre has a fine texture and takes a high polish. The wood is very hard and has a tendency to blunt tools. The wood is used in decorative woodworking and woodturning. The Nature Conservancy considers this tree secure within its native range." Other sources give additional names: muirapiranga, satiné rubane, cacique, and cardinalwood (due to its red color). It keeps its color, and does not turn brown with age like some highly colored woods. See our full selection of bloodwood ("palo de sangre") hand-carved animals from Colombia.

Palo de sangre is carved into wonderfully attractive and charming animal figures in Colombia and other regions of tropical America. The bright red color is a natural property of the wood, as is the highly finished shine on the surface (evidenced by the reflected light in the photo). These animals are not varnished, stained, or painted, but come to you in their spectacular natural finish. Fortunately, the artisans who carve them are not restricted by any means or conventions to a particular template, so you get the benefit of each individual's vision and creativity. The wood also varies somewhat from one carving to the next as far as natural color, grain, and markings. Although the individual item is different from all others, the motifs are repeated. For example, crocodiles and manatees are more common; and tapirs are less common. We may be able to get several tapirs this month and none next month, for example. Or we may be able to get small otters one month and only large otters the next. We decided to show you each and every animal we have available, and you can order by the number. You will receive the exact item you see on the web site. The only order option for quantity is one per item, as no two are alike. These carved wood animals are imported to the US by the Tapir Preservation Fund. Your purchase helps support conservation of tapirs and their habitat.

Turtles of Colombia

Colombia is a South American country rich in ecological diversity. Unfortunately, it is also a relatively unstable country, both geographically and politically. Part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, Colombia is home to 15 active volcanoes and numerous fault lines that contribute to numerous eruptions and earthquakes, many resulting in substantial damage and loss of human life. The political upheaval between the current government and political dissidents creates an environment of violence and pollution that is difficult to overcome. Even with all these factors, however, numerous conservation and scientific missions are currently at work in Colombia seeking to preserve the environment and species of this amazing country.

Colombia is listed fourth in the world for its levels of fresh water, supplied by both rainfall and enormous river systems. Amongst other animals that benefit from its huge freshwater environments, Colombia is home to numerous turtle species, including the Colombian wood turtle (Rhinoclemmys melanostema), Dunn's mud turtle (Kinosternon dunni), the Colombian slider (Trachemys callirostris), and the Rio Magdalena river turtle (Podocnemis lewyana).

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Lion

2012-01-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

Even Aslan started out small and cuddly!

Our Plastic Stuffed Lion

This stuffed lion sits 11 inches tall and has super-soft and long body fur. The luscious butterscotch color is very rich and very attractive. The lion's face has large, friendly eyes and it has a sweet look about it. This stuffed lion is in Wild Republic's "Rascals" line. All parts are non-toxic and surface washable. Check out our other lion toys and gifts.

About Lions

The hang tag that comes with our stuffed lion says: "Hi! I am a lion. I come from Asia, but you will find my cousins in Africa too. I can run very fast and climb trees swiftly. We lions like living in a group called a pride, and we hunt and do everything together. Our favorite pastime is hunting antelope, baby elephants or rhinos, but you are more likely to see me napping in a tree, or lying on my back, relaxing!"

Lions (Panthera leo) are members of the cat family whose size, power, and bearing have captured human imagination since earliest times, are also called the king of beasts. They once lived throughout Africa and from Europe to Iran and India. Today Eurasian wild lions are limited to the Gir Sanctuary in India. Lions also roam the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Kruger National Park in South Africa. This drastic reduction in range came about as humans and domestic livestock spread into savanna lands. Because lions live in open areas, they are easily shot by hunters and herders.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Great White Shark

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Equally great as a toy or project piece!

Our Plastic Great White Shark

Our great white shark is made of hard plastic and measures 3 inches. Its name is moulded into the underside. This plastic shark is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. You can make a splendid ocean predators diorama using this and other plastic sharks, fish, and aquatic creatures and mammals from our gift shop.

About Great White Sharks

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Orange Siberian Tiger

2012-01-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

Meet Shere Khan's big brother from up north!

Our Plastic Orange Siberian Tiger

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic orange Siberian tiger replica is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose. This Siberian tiger miniature makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 10 inches long and 4 1/2 inches tall at the shoulder, with orange and black fur. All the majesty and power of the real thing without the food costs! Check out our other tiger toys and gifts.

About Siberian tigers

Also known as the Amur tiger, the Siberian tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) is a subspecies of tiger found in the Russian far east. This subspecies represents one of the largest cats to have ever lived on Earth, with an average male body length of over six feet and a typical male weight of 475 pounds. Siberian tigers are distinquished from other large felids by an unusually large and heavily-reinforced skull. Primary prey for the Siberian tiger include deer, wild pigs, and a small proportion of moose.

In 2005, there was a breeding population of about 250 Amur tigers in the Russian far east, with an overall population of less than 400 and declining. Intense conservation efforts to preserve the Siberian tiger have been underway for more than 15 years.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Guinea Pigs

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

Another unique and delightful addition to Tapir & Friends!

Our Guinea Pigs

These adorable little stuffed guinea pigs are both realistic and extremly soft. Our guinea pigs are 8 inches long and have been well crafted by Hansa. They have light-brown and white, grey-brown and white, or black and white fluffy fur covering their bodies. You'll enjoy talking to your new found friend and stroking him to sleep. Be sure to see our other rodent toys and gifts.

About Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are small rodents that are neither from Guinea nor are pigs. They originally came from the grasslands of the Andes, but are no longer found in the wild. They were introduced to Europeans in the 16th century and became household pets. They have a docile nature and are easy to keep around the home. They weigh 1 -2 pounds and are 8-10 inches long and are usually kept in cages lined with wood shavings. Guinea pigs breed year around with about 5 litters a year consisting of an average of 3 pups. They can learn complex paths to food and were often used, prior to rats and mice, in scientific experiments, hence the term "guinea pig" for a person who is being tested.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Black-tip Reef Shark Plush Toy

2012-01-23T13:00:00.000-08:00

Just when you thought it was safwe to snuggle up with a stuffed animal...

Our Plush Black-tip Reef Shark

This somewhat realistic-looking plush Black-tip Reef Shark toy is made by Wild Republic - a name so many have come to know and trust as a leading manufacturer of stuffed animals and other toys for kids. Thoroughly tested, these toys are very safe, although the tag always says "For Ages 3+." As part of the Cuddlekins line, this shark has realistic colors and a shape that is realistic within the "kinda cute" look of this line. It's a good size for children to cuddle, but it's big enough to be fun for any age. Our shark has soft teeth made of felt and pink fabric inside its mouth. The gills and nostrils are made with stitching and the irises of the plastic eyes are a very pretty, shiny silver with little black lines in them. Tips of the fins and tail are prominent black. The shark comes with an informational tag printed in four languages: English, French, Spanish, and German. Come see our other shark toys and gifts.

About Black-tip Reef Sharks

Easily identified by the black fin-tips that give it its name, the blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) is among the most abundant species of shark in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Most of the time, blacktips prefer shallow waters near coral reefs and sandy flats, but have been known to enter brackish and even freshwater environments. Blacktips are typically less than six feet long. Skittish and shy, blacktips seldom pose a threat to humans unless provoked to frenzy by food in the water. Blacktips feed primarily on bony fish, crustaceans, cephalopods, sea snakes, and occasionally water birds.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic White Siberian Tiger

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

THIS 'white Russian' don't abide!

Our Plastic White Siberian Tiger

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic white Siberian tiger replica is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose. This Siberian tiger miniature makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 10 inches long and 4 1/2 inches tall at the shoulder, with white and black fur. All the majesty and power of the real thing without the food costs! Check out our other tiger toys and gifts.

About Siberian tigers

The commonly-held belief that the Siberian tiger exists with a white coat, rather than orange or rusty colored fur, is false. Tigers with white coats are not a species or subspecies on their own...the white coloration is a mutation of the tiger's natural coloration. While white-coated tigers are bred in captivity in large numbers for sale to zoos and circus-style shows, the white coloration is extremely rare in wild tigers.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Camel Finger Puppet

2012-01-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

This adorable puppet makes a great gift!

Our Stuffed Camel Finger Puppet

This playful stuffed camel finger puppet is made of extremely soft plush material. This replica has a detailed face and body with a loving expression. It is 7 inches long and 7 inches tall. Your finger goes inside but doesn't move any parts. You basically march it along. This plush camel finger puppet stands up on its own and could work as a Christmas decoration or be placed around a manger. It makes for a nice pet, fits into a stuffed animal collection or serves as a great cuddly friend and is fun for all kinds of games. Check out our other camel toys and gifts.

About Camels

The Bactrian (two-humped) camel lives in the cold, mountain and hight desert climates of Central Asia. It was domesticated over 4,500 years ago in an area called Bactria, near present-day Iran. The Bactrian's humps are filled with fat, not water, which is used to nourish the camel when there is little food or water. The Bactrian camel can go without water for long periods, drinking and storing up to 18 gallons (68 liters) at a time. The Bactrian camel can grow up to 11 feet long and 7 feet tall (at the shoulder) and weight up to 2,000 pounds. Although there are over 2 million domesticated Bactrian camels, the wild Bactrian camel is one of the world's rarest mammals. It is considered critically endangered with less that 1,000 remaining in the wild.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Cricket

2012-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Know that crickets are considered lucky when you "wish upon a star"!

Our Plastic Cricket

This engaging, realistic-looking, plastic Cricket is made of hard durable plastic. It is 2 inches long including flexible back legs. It makes a good replica in a shoe box diorama or for any school project. It is also an excellent party gag. Check out our other insect toys and gifts.

About Crickets

Crickets are a group of 900 species of insects of the family Gryllidae,and are related closely to katydids. Often mistaken for grasshoppers due to similarities in body and leg shape, crickets are primarily nocturnal and are most widely known for their common "chirping". The chirp, emitted only by male crickets, is created by the cricket rubbing his wings (NOT his hind legs) together. There are four types of cricket "chirp": the calling song (attracts females and repels males), the courting song (when females are near), the aggresive song (when males are near), and the copulatory song (after a successful mating). Rate and pitch of the songs are determined by species and by temperature of the environment. Crickets are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on dead and decaying material as they find it. Equipped with relatively strong jaws for their size, crickets have been known to attack other injured crickets for food, and have occasionally been known to bite humans in self-defence.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Nile Crocodile

2012-01-21T13:00:00.000-08:00

A splendid replica for your toy collection or school diorama!

Our Plastic Toy Nile Crocodile

This engaging, somewhat realistic-looking plastic Nile crocodile miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has a detailed face and body and is painted dark green,and yellow ochre. It has detailed scales and is 4 inches long. This plastic crocodile makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama for school projects or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other crocodile toys and gifts.

About Nile Crocodiles

The Nile Crocodile (Crocodilus niloticus) live throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the Nile Basin, and Madagascar in rivers, freshwater marshes, and mangrove swamps. It can grow to 20 feet long and weigh as much as 1600 pounds. It is known as a man-eater, but attacks on humans are infrequent. It eats mainly fish, but will grab generally anything that comes across its path. It will also eat carrion. The Nile crocodile is a caring parent. It guards the eggs carefully and will stay near the nest until the babies hatch. The Nile crocodile carries the young gently in its jaws to the water. The Nile crocodile is threatened by poachers and is coveted for its meat and skin.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Stretchable Earthworm

2012-01-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Now that's just flat-out nasty...

Our Earthworm

This, realistic-looking stretchable earthworm is an amazing replica. It stretches to 36 inches in length, retracts and can be bent in any direction. It feels like Jello, and is also sticky to the touch. If you aren't an earthworm lover, this earthworm replica is truely disgusting. It is red-brown with detailed segments and a well defined ring. Our earthworm replica may want to crawl under your pet rock. This stretchable plastic earthworm makes a nice pet, a gift, toy or gag for teenagers or immature adults and could work well for a school play or show-and-tell as a school science project. Check out our other earthworm toys and gifts.

Please Note: The package says, "May rip if overstretched. May stain rubber surfaces, painted walls, fabrics, wallpaper, or wood surfaces." We at Tapir and Friends make no guarantees, but my experience is that I have stretched the earthworm over 36 inches and it didn't break, and I found that a plastic leech made of similar material left an oily stain on cardboard only after I washed it and set it out to dry. Your results may differ.

About Earthworms

Earthworms are annelids like leeches. The body consists of a long slimy outer tube and an inner tube which is its digestive system. The body is annular, formed of segments that are most specialized in the anterior. Earthworms are hermaphrodites. They go through stages where they are male and female. Earthworms have the facility to regenerate lost segments, but this ability varies between species and depends on the extent of the damage. Earthworms are seen on the surface after heavy rains because they need to avoid drowning in saturated soil and also they come to the surface to mate. The rest of the time they crawl through the earth by a means of waves of muscular contractions which alternately shorten and lengthen the body. The shortened part is anchored to the surrounding soil by tiny claw-like bristles (setae) set along its segmented length. Earthworms are great for the soil because they convert organic material into humus.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Meerkat

2012-01-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

A unique addition to your stuffed animal collection!

Our Plush Meerkat

These plush meerkat stuffed animals are exceptional. They're as realistic as they are cute. Although they're made of synthetic materials, they look real. This one sits up surveying his territory.

Read more about Hansa stuffed animals and see our selection.

About Meerkats

The civet family (Viverridae) includes binturongs, civet cats, falanoucs, fossas, genet cats, linsangs, mongooses and meerkats (which are actually a type of mongoose). They are related to the cat family but are not actually cats. They do have a cat-like body, but with shorter legs and a longer tail. Their face resembles that of a weasel. These mostly nocturnal (active at night) mammals are native to Asia (including Indonesia and the Philippines), Africa (including Madagascar) and southern Europe. Some species are terrestrial (ground dwellers), but most are arboreal (tree dwellers); some are carnivores (eat only meat) and others are omnivores (eat fruits and vegetables as well as meat). Civet cats have scent-producing glands that secrete a musky-smelling substance which is used as a perfume fixative.

Meerkats are diurnal, which means they are active during the day. They have an average life span of 12-14 years. Meerkat populations move whenever their food supply becomes depleted. Being omnivores, meerkats eat both plants and animals. Meerkats can even eat scorpions because they are immune to their venom. However, the most significant characteristic of meerkats is their altruistic behavior. They are one of the few mammal species that significantly cooperates and coordinates acivities with each other. Meerkat mothers are given an opportunity to go out to feed themselves while their young are watched by other meerkats. In fact, some meerkats spend all or part of their lives helping others raise their young rather than breeding themselves.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Cockroach

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

They're gonna be here long after we're gone!

Our Plastic Cockroach

This engaging, realistic, plastic cockroach is made of hard durable plastic. It is 3 inches long including feelers. It makes a good replica in a shoe box diorama or for any school project. It is also an excellent party favor. Check out our other cockroach toys and gifts.

About Cockroaches

A cockroach is a general term for a number of species from the order Blattodea. The American species is omnivorous and can be found most anywhere in garbage or around rotting food in the kitchen. Cockroaches are mainly nocturnal and will run away when exposed to light. They are incredibly resilient insects with some species capable of remaining active for a month without food, or being able to survive on limited resources like the glue from the back of postage stamps. Some cockroaches can go without air for 45 minutes and can live without a head for a long time. The lifespan of a cockroach is about a year (assuming it has its head).

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Aardvark

2012-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

Yup, he's actually a little cousin to the elephant!

Our Plush Aardvark

Our wonderfully realistic-looking stuffed aardvark by Hansa is a toy that looks amazingly like a real animal. The plush aardvark is 12 1/2 inches from nose to rump. Its tail adds another 10 inches to its length, and the pink fabric-covered tongue is posable and holds its position when you move it. The tongue is about 1 1/2 inches long. It is sewn with soft plush fabric with extra-soft white tufts around the eyes, ears, and chin. There are four toes on each front foot and five toes on each back foot. This is a good thing, because aardvarks are known for digging! It has gentle hard plastic eyes (black pupils with a ring of gold for the iris) pinkish brown inside the ears. Our stuffed aardvark replica has a kindly expression and promises to snuggle next to you. This aardvark makes a wonderful gift for stuffed animal lovers and complements nicely any stuffed animal collection. The fabric is produced in small batches and is chosen especially for this animal. Each piece is hand-stictched in the Philippines by crafters willing to produce a unique item each and every time. Check out our other aardvark toys and gifts.

Read more about Hansa stuffed animals and see our selection.

About Aardvarks

Aardvarks (Orycteropus afer) are African mammals of a medium size that are most active at night and are good at burrowing into the earth. Their name, "aardvark," comes from the Afrikaans/Dutch language and means "earth pig." This unusual-looking animal has many names locally, including "antbear" or "anteater," although it is not a close relative of the anteaters of South America. Neither is it closely related to a pig, but is somewhat isolated taxonomically and is the only member of the order Tubulidentata. It is not a true edetate, although we've listed it with our edentates on the web site so that people could find it. As odd as it sounds, the aardvark is most closely related to elephant shrews, hyraxes, tenrecs and elephants. If we had put the aardvark in our elephant category, would you have found it? It's a strange thought!

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Trapdoor Spider

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Parlor? This dude has a CELLAR!

Our Plastic Trap-Door Spider

This engaging, idealized plastic spider is made of hard durable plastic. It is 2 inches long and 1 3/8 inches wide. Our spider resembles the trapdoor spider, due to its shape, hard shelled thorax, and distinct boxing glove-shaped palps, that is, the two "sensory feelers" at front of its head. I found an Asian variety which has yellow, green and dark purple coloration, like our example. Our trapdoor spider makes a good replica in a shoe box diorama or for any school project. It is also an excellent party favor. Check out our other spider toys and gifts.

About Trap-Door Spiders

The trapdoor spider belongs to the family Ctenizidae. These are spiders that burrow and construct a trapdoor of silk, vegetable matter and soil. These relatively harmless spiders are found in numerous places in the world, especially in rainforests and warmer climates. The trapdoor is difficult to see. The spider holds it partially open, especially at night, and waits for unsuspecting prey to pass near its burrow. The trapdoor spider has an uncanny sense of movement. When movement is sensed, the spider then captures the prey in its tarsi or claws, which are at the ends of its fangs.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Diamondback Rattlesnake

2012-01-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

That ain't no baby rattle!

Our Plastic Diamondback Rattlesnake

This large flexible, realistic-looking diamondback rattlesnake replica is made of hollow plastic with distinctive rattles.Our rattlesnake is a flexible brown snake with black stripes. Our rattlesnake would make a splash in the bath, and is sure to be among your child's favorites. It is approximately 12 inches long (measured from the nose to the curve at the far side of the body; it would be much longer if you could stretch it out, but it will spring back to this same pose, so we don't measure it from nose to tail as if it were lying straight out). In addition, it has a forked tongue protruding from the front of it's head. This rattlesnake can be used as a gift, for a science project, for decorations, as a gag, party favor or as a collectible. Check out our other snake toys and gifts.

About Diamondback Rattlesnakes

The diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) is a common desert reptile found throughout the United States. Rattlesnakes are found in the southern parts of the United States, from the deserts to the mountains and grow between 3 and 4 feet (.9 to 1.2 m) long. There are 16 different types of rattlers such as the eastern diamondback, western diamondback, sidewinder and the speckled, just to name a few. All of them have rattles, are venomous and are pit vipers. Their rattles are located at the end of their tails and are used as a warning device when they are threatened, taking the place of a loud hiss as with other snakes. The rattle is composed of a series of nested, hollow beads which are actually modified scales from the tip of their tail. Each time the snake sheds its skin, a new rattle segment is added. They tend to shed their skins several times a year depending on food supply and growth rates. Rattlesnakes feed on rodents, squirrels, rabbits and other small critters. They stun their prey with their venomous bite and swallow them whole! They hibernate through the winter and come out in the spring to eat and then mate. Rattlesnake eggs will stay inside their mother until they hatch. Most of the time there are 8-10 babies born at once and are about 10 inches long. Babies are born venomous but cannot rattle and are often more aggressive than the adults.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Centipede

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Do you think he'd even notice if he stubbed his toe?

Our Plastic Centipede

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic centipede is made of hard, flexible plastic. It is 3 1/4 inches long from feeler to feeler. It works well for a shoe box diorama or other school projects. It also makes for an interesting gag or party favor. Check out our other centipede toys and gifts.

About Centipedes

Centipedes are terrestial arthropods. The word "centipede" is a general term for a many-legged insect with a pair of legs for each body segment. There are an estimated 8,000 species of centipedes ranging from the Arctic Circle to the the rainforests of South America. Centipedes have dangerous claws at the first appendage and can give a nasty sting. They tend to be nocturnal. They are usually found under rocks or in thick mulch. Most centipedes are small, but some reach 8 inches in length. The world's record is held by a centipede found in the Amazon River area, which reached over 12 inches in length.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Madagascar Day Gecko

2012-01-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

He won't try to sell you car insurance!

Our Plastic Madagascar Day Gecko

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic Madagascar day gecko miniature is made of somewhat flexible hard plastic. This replica has detailed skin and is painted green with a white belly. This gecko replica has red-brown spots with distinct eyes. This Madagascar day gecko miniature makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama for a school project, or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other gecko toys and gifts.

About Madagascar Day Geckos

The Madagascar day gecko (Phelsuma madagascariensis madagascariensis) is a species of gecko found only in Madacascar. It is a large omnivorous gecko. It feeds on insects and spiders and on fruit. It can be found on tree trunks, branches and on the forest floor. Madgascar day geckos have been heavily collected in the pet trade and seem to do well in captivity. It is an attractive gecko due to the bright brick red spots its back and its distinctive splayed feet.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Toy Butterfly

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous and useful as a toy, decoration, party favor, or prop!

Our Plastic Red Butterfly

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic butterfly is made of soft, flexible plastic. It is 2 1/4 inches long from front wingtip to rear wingtip. Our red butterfly may represent a true tropical butterfly, but we are not sure enough to call it one. If you can identify it, please e-mail us. It works well for a shoe box diorama or other school projects. It also makes for an interesting party favor. Check out our other butterfly toys and gifts.

About Butterflies

Butterflies are from the order Lepidoptera. They represent the adult stage of the insect with the caterpillar being the larval stage. This represents an amazing metamorphisis in nature. Some species can fly long distances and are important in the pollination of many plants. It has been suggested that butterflies are bitter in taste so birds tend to leave them alone. Without many predators, some butterflies can overpopulate an area and be a lovely pest to agriculture.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Set Of Four Plastic Alligators

2012-01-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

NOT what you want to see pacing your rowboat!

Our Plastic Alligators

This realistic-looking set of plastic model of juvenile alligators is made of somewhat flexible hard plastic. These replicas have detailed faces and bodies and consists of four alligators. One has its mouth open, the second is crouched in the grass, the third has a lifted head and the fourth is in a resting position.The alligator set is curved and is 2 1/2 inches long. These alligators make for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other alligator toys and gifts.

About Alligators

An Alligator is a crocodilian in the genus Alligator. The name alligator comes from Spanish el lagarto (the lizard), the name by which early Spanish explorers and settlers in Florida called the alligator. There are two living alligator species: the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and the Chinese alligator. It is an ancient animal and has survived for 200 million years. An average adult American alligator's weight and length is 800 pounds and 13 feet long. According to the Everglades National Park website, the largest alligator ever recorded in Florida was 17 feet 5 inches. The Chinese alligator is smaller, rarely exceeding 7 feet in length. Alligators have an average of 75 teeth.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

In the Cretaceous, they were three feet long!

Our Plastic Dragonfly

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic dragonfly is made of hard, flexible plastic. It is 2 1/2 inches long and 2 1/4 inches across from wing-tip to wing-tip. Our plastic dragonfly has clear plastic, detailed wings and a red and yellow segmented body. We don't know what kind of dragonfly our plastic dragonfly replicates, but if you do, please e-mail us. It works well for a shoe box diorama or other school projects. It also makes for an interesting party favor or for a gag. Check out our other dragonfly toys and gifts.

About Dragonflies

A dragonfly is an insect belonging to the order Odonata. It is has large multifaceted eyes, two pairs of strong, transparent wings, and an elongated body. Dragonflies eat mosquitoes, midges, and other small insects like flies, bees, and butterflies. They are valuable predators, since they help control populations of harmful insects. Dragonflies are usually found around lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands because their larvae, known as "nymphs", are aquatic. Dragonflies do not normally bite or sting humans, though they will bite in order to escape, if grasped by the abdomen. Dragonflies hover above the water, but then can rapidly accelerate. They capture their prey by clasping them in legs studded by spikes. We are most familiar with the adult stage of the dragonfly, but most of their life is spent as a nymph below the water.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Skunk

2012-01-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

Nothing this cute could be named "le Pew"!

Our Plush Striped Skunk

Our 10-inch stuffed skunk is completely odor free and totally adorable. It has a wonderfully fluffy tail, soft felt claws that can't scratch, a soft felt nose, and shiny plastic eyes. To find more stuffed animals in the Fiesta line, or see a list of our entire inventory of stuffed animals, beanies and puppets, check out our Stuffed Animal Page.

About Striped Skunks

Contrary to what a popular french-accented cartoon skunk may have us believe, striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) are found only in North America from the northern parts of Mexico up into Canada. Then again, it is possible that cartoon skunk is from the french speaking parts of Canada. Deserts, woodlands, grassy plains and suburbs within a 2 mile radius of a water source are the prefered habitat of these small cat-sized creatures. Their black coats with the white stripes running down either side of the back give them a very distinctive look. When threatened skunks prefer to run rather than fight. However, when cornered they turn their backs, click their teeth, stomp their feet and raise their long bushy tails. If this does not deter the attacker, as an absolutely last resort they will spray a noxious, oily, yellowish musk.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Butterfly Replica

2012-01-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

A beautiful, functional addition to any project!

Our Plastic Blue Butterfly

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic butterfly is made of soft, flexible plastic. It is 2 inches long from wingtip to wingtip. Our blue butterfly may represent a true tropical butterfly, but we are not sure enough to call it one. If you can identify it, please e-mail us. It works well for a shoe box diorama or other school projects. It also makes for an interesting party favor. Check out our other butterfly toys and gifts.

About Butterflies

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Genet Cat

2012-01-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

Not your average, everyday, run-of-the-mill feline!

Our Plastic Spotted Genet Cat

Our realistic-looking small-spotted genet cat is made of hollow plastic and measures 4 3/4 inches from head to tail and is 2 7/8 inches to the ear tips. The body is moulded with a fur-like pattern and details that almost make it seem real. The scientific name is moulded into the underside. This sturdy, light-weight plastic genet is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic small-spotted genet is for decoration or play only. You can make a creative African forest or grassland shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Best of all, there is no mess, no feeding, and no tank or cage cleaning :) Be sure to look over our other genet toys.

About Genet Cats

This species of genet cat is found throughout most of Southern Africa. For an excellent resource on these small mammals, take a look at Kruger National Park's small-spotted genet page.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Grasshopper

2012-01-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

After a long absence, look who's back at Tapir & Friends!

Our Plastic Grasshopper

This engaging, realistic-looking, plastic grasshopper is made of hard durable plastic. It is 3 inches long including flexible antennae. It makes a good replica in a shoe box diorama or for any school project. It is also an excellent party gag. Check out our other grasshopper toys and gifts.

About Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are herbivorous insects of the suborder Caelifera in the order Orthoptera. There are over 11,000 different species of grasshoppers and many more undistinguished varieties living in rainforests throughout the world. Grasshoppers make sound by rubbing their long hindlegs against their abdomen or by snapping their wings during flight. Grasshoppers are fun to catch and are a source of protein to many people in the world. Grasshoppers are low on the food chain and fall prey to other insects and birds. They are often used as bait for fishing.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Snowy Owl

2012-01-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

Ever pulled apart an owl pellet? Don't knock it until you've tried it!

Our Snowy Owl

Our stuffed snowy owl is from the Cuddlekins series by Wild Republic. As with all of Wild Republic's toys, this plush toy owl meets the most stringent current standards of safety for children's toys. All parts are non-toxic and surface washable. The owl sits nicely on any surface and is 11 inches tall in a sitting position. It's very soft and has big, friendly yellow and black eyes. The wings can be spread out from the body and also have a very soft pettable surface. Stitching on the tops of the wings (not visible in the photo) make it appear as though they have flight feathers. Although this is not a Harry Potter official owl, it is the same type of owl as Hedwig and will charm anyone who loves the Harry Potter stories as well as anyone who simply likes owls, birds, or animals! Check out our other owl toys and gifts.

About Snowy Owls

The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) is found in the north in polar regions but migrates South in the Winter. It feeds primarily on lemmings and other small rodents and needs to eat 7-10 of them during the day to survive. Snowy Owls, like many other birds, swallow their small prey whole. Strong stomach juices digest the flesh and the indigestible bones, teeth, fur, and feathers are compacted into oval pellets that the bird regurgitates 18 to 24 hours after feeding. Regurgitation often takes place at regular perches, where dozens of pellets may be found. Biologists frequently examine these pellets to determine the quantity and types of prey the birds have eaten.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Raccoon

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

Who was that masked mammal?

Our Plush Raccoon

Our stuffed raccoon is lifelike and oh, so cuddly-soft! The nose and eyes are made of plastic, and there are no claws to scratch a young child. Our stuffed raccoon is soft and adorable, and has a curious look in its wise-looking eyes. Its whiskers are made of soft, floppy strings that can't scratch or poke. The size is big enough to be snuggled by an adult or child. It would make a good companion on trips as well as at home. See our other raccoon toys and gifts.

About Raccoons

Raccoons are related to the cacomistle or bassarisk, a small ring-tailed mammal found from Oregon to Mexico. Other relatives are the coati mundi, kinkajou, and red panda. Raccoons belong to the Family Procyonidae. The giant panda was once classified as a member of the raccoon family, but is now considered to be a true bear. According to Wikipedia, "Raccoons are unusual, for their thumbs (though not opposable) enable them to open many closed containers (such as garbage cans and doors). They are omnivores with a reputation for being clever and mischievous; their intelligence and dexterity equip them to survive in a wide range of environments and are one of the few medium-to-large-sized animals that have enlarged its range since human encroachment began (another is the coyote).

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Fabric Monarch Butterfly Finger Puppet

2012-01-12T13:00:00.000-08:00

An awesome toy, prop, or decoration!

Our Monarch Butterfly Finger Puppet

This engaging, educational and fun fabric monarch butterfly finger puppet is soft and cuddly and constructed with the quality of Folkmanis. The wings are made of orange and black soft plush transparent fabric and shows well-defined segments. The body is black and streches to allow a finger. Our monarch butterfly replica promises not to fly away. This fabric monarch butterfly finger puppet makes a nice pet, gift, novelty, presentation piece for a school project,or gag gift. See our other butterfly toys and gifts.

About Monarch Butterflies

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is a well-known North American butterfly. It is a beautiful insect and has been drawn, photographed and appreciated by countless people. It is noted for its ability to make migration journeys of up to 3,000 miles where it loves to congregate on milkweed. It tolerates cold weather poorly so unsesaonable weather can have a devasting effect on the monarch butterfly. Monarch butterflies have few predators. They have an acrid taste which birds learn to avoid. Monarch butterflies can now be found in Hawaii and New Zealand.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Flying Mallard Duck

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

One of the beautiful replicas available at Tapir & Friends!

Our Plastic Flying Mallard

This flying mallard duck is one of our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals, or in this case, plastic birds. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. The duck's feet are tucked up and trailing behind him as if in flight. Just so you know, he does not stand up.

About Mallard Ducks

The mallard, or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos), is probably the best-known and most recognizable of all ducks. The male birds have a bright green head and the female birds have a light brown head. Mallard ducks live in wetlands and eat water plants. They are gregarious, migratory birds that form large flocks. Mallards ducks can reach 26 inches in length, have a wingspan of 39 inches, and weigh close to 3 pounds. Females can lay 8-13 eggs, which are incubated for 27-28 days before hatching. The duckling are born able to swin and feed themselves but stay near their mother for protection.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Carabiner Animal Flashlights

2012-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

The sun's returning, but not very fast! Let these light your way!

Our Carabiner Animal Flashlights

Our carabiner animal flashlights are the coolest way to make sure you always have a light nearby! Look at the tail, they simply open up to snap onto a key ring, backpack, belt, book bag, or anyplace else a person can hook something. The light is surprisingly bright for such a small item! Keep one next to your bed, by the back door, inside your car or on your bike. The light is bright enough to find things in the dark - such as finding the lock on your house or car door. Helps keep both kids and adults safe when unexpected scenarios come up. Just press the button on the critter's back, and you have light! Is there a better way to find the outhouse on a camping trip than to let our flashlight animals find the trail for you? Or what about lighting your way on Halloween? Fun for birthday parties, as stocking stuffers, or Hanukkah gifts for any age. Check out our other bird toys and gifts and our multi-style animal flashlights. The animal flashlights page also shows you what the lights look like when the light is on! If you have a teeeeeny little screwdriver, you can pop in a replacement battery. However, we've noticed that the lights last for quite a long time on the original battery.

About Keel-Billed Toucans

Toucans are brightly-colored birds with distinctively-large bills, primarily located in Central and South America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and southern Florida. Toucans are omnivores, feeding primarily on fruits, eggs, insects, and small birds and reptiles. Both the male and female share responsibilities in caring for their clutch of 2-4 eggs, taking turns seated on the clutch to incubate their young. The large bill (usually 1/3 of the birds total length) is made of spongy, hollow bone struts covered in keratin, a hard protein that also makes up hair and nails in mammals.

Also known as the sulfur-billed and rainbow-billed toucan, the keel-billed toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus) is typically 12-22 inches long and weighs under a pound. Keel-billed toucans are found from southern Mexico to Venezuela and Columbia.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Miniature Giraffe

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

A fantastic replica of an amazing creature!

Our Plastic Giraffe

This giraffe stands almost 7 inches tall. It's made of sturdy plastic and is very durable. Because it's larger, it has more detail than our smaller plastic animals. This giraffe is hollow and therefore light weight.

About Giraffes

Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) are the biggest ruminant and the tallest mammal. They have very long necks with a short, upstanding mane. Their high shoulders slope steeply to their hindquarters. The head tapers to a point and they have a long, prehensile tongue. Their horns are solid bone and skin covered. Tails are hocklength, with a long tassel. Their brown to rich chestnut colored coat (old males are darker, even black) is dissected into intricate tapestry by patches and blotches of lighter hair. Each giraffe's markings are unique.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Naked Mole Rat

2012-01-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

There's nothin' wrong with NAKED!

Our Stuffed Naked Mole Rat

This imaginative-looking stuffed naked mole rat is made of extremely soft plush material. This replica has a detailed face and body with realistic-looking ridges and cute buck teeth. The naked mole rat is 9 inches long. This plush naked mole rat makes for a nice pet, fits into a stuffed animal collection or serves as a great cuddly friend. Check out our other rat toys and gifts.

About Naked Mole Rats

The naked mole rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is also known as the desert mole rat. It is found in East Africa, living underground in a harsh environment. It seems to lack sensations of pain and has a very low metabolism. It spends its time digging its way through tunnels using its large front teeth. Its lips are sealed behind behind the front teeth to keep dirt from getting into its throat. It sees poorly and has no hair to cover its pink-yellowish skin. It lives in colonies with tasks divided up similar to bee colonies.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Walrus

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Look who's back in stock at TPF!

Our Stuffed Walrus

Our stuffed walrus is especially soft, squishy, and cuddly. He has lots of wrinkles, just like a real walrus. It's one of the "Natural Poses" series by Wild Republic, a brand you know and trust as always maintining the highest standards of toy safety in today's world. All parts of this toy walrus are non-toxic and surface washable. He's not only cuddly, he's also colletible. Check out our other walrus toys and gifts. To find more animals in this line, or see a list of our entire inventory of stuffed animals, beanies and puppets, check out our Stuffed Animal Page.

About Walruses

The two subspecies of walrus, the Pacific, which is the largest, and the Atlantic live in the Northern Hemisphere in the arctic and subarctic regions. The tusks, which give the walrus its distinctive appearance, are found on both the male (bull) and female (cow). Cows weigh up to 2,800 pounds and reach up to 10 feet long. Bulls are much larger at up to 4,000 pounds and up to 12 feet long. Like sea lions, walruses are able to rotate their rear flippers under pelvis and pivot their front flippers to the side, giving them the abililty to walk and climb. These semi-aquatic mammals have a thick layer of fat beneath their tough leathery skin, which is covered by a thin layer of light brown hair. In warm weather, tiny blood vessels in the skin dilate, increasing circulation, which sheds excess body heat. This causes the skin to turn pink.

The hang tag on our stuffed walrus says, "Hello! I am a walrus. I'm a BIG guy - I'm more than 10 feet long and can weigh up to 2 tons. Aren't my tusks awesome? They are actually giant teeth. Although I live in the Arctic, I have a thick layer of fat called blubber that keeps me warm in the coldest weather. I can walk on all four of my fins and can even run as fast as you! Wanna race?"

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Hippo Hand Puppet

2012-01-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

This toy is as accurate and educational as it is adorable!

Our Plush Hippo Stage Puppet

Our very cute and lovable plush hippo stage puppet is 19 inches long and is crafted with fine workmanship from Folkmanis. It is 7 inches tall and has a 3 inch tail. It is with incredibly soft fabric and has realistic features. Your hand goes inside the hippo puppet's chest and works the mouth, so it can stand on your arm or on a puppet stage. It has shiny black eyes, soft plastic non scratchy tusks, and its whiskers are made of tufts of soft dark gray thread. Our hippo hand puppet makes for an enjoyable toy or pet or educational toy or fits nicely into a hippo collection. This stuffed hippo hand puppet may work well for school projects. Be sure to see our other hippo toys and gifts.

About Hippos

The hippopotamus (Hippopotamidae) spends most of its life in the rivers and lakes of Africa. Hippopotamus babies are born and nursed in the water. Adult hippos are dangerous and often engage in vicious fights with each other. As hippo expert Hans Klingel once noted, "Few animals are as recognizable as the hippopotamus." Indeed, it is almost impossible to mistake a hippopotamus for anything else. The body is long, barrel-shaped, and very deep. (I always thought they were more potato-shaped.) The limbs are short and pillar-like, with four toes on each foot. The hippo's neck is short and quite thick in order to support the weight of the massive head. The ears are small and round, the eyes are bulbous and protruding, and the muzzle is broad and rounded. The hippo's mouth is especially large; in fact, the hippo can open its mouth wider than any other living animal except the whales. The upper and lower canine teeth - often referred to as tusks - are long, thick, and very sharp. The animal has no hair except for a few stiff bristles on its muzzle, ears, and stubby tail. The skin color ranges from slate gray to copper brown on the back to pinkish purple on the belly and around the ears and eyes.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Amebelodon

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

You should see the size of his toothbrush!

Our Plastic Amebelodon

Made of solid plastic by Safari, Ltd., one of the best names in plastic toy animals, this amebelodon's superior design and details make it a museum-quality replica or collector's item, and yet the price puts it in range for the average collector of plastic animals. It measures 5 3/4 inches from the short trunk to the tail and stands 3 inches tall. It comes with an informational tag in French, Italian, Spanish, German, and English. This sturdy, durable prehistoric mammal is also excellent for school projects, novelties, party favors or even as a children's toy. You can make a splendid Ice Age shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Be sure to look over our other mammoth and mastodon toys and gifts.

About Amebelodon

Amebelodon first appeared in North America around 8-9 million years ago. After migrating across the Bering land bridge, this species of primitive proboscideans went extinct about 5 million years ago. Individual amebelodon varied a great deal in size, but the largest (Amebelodon britti) was 8-10 feet tall at the shoulder and weighed about 10 metric tons...larger than the biggest living elephant today.

The spade-like lower tusks of this species of mastodon earned them the nickname "Shovel Tuskers." These long, flat tusks were perfect for "shoveling up" plants, especially from the bottoms of ponds, and could also be used to scrape the bark off trees. The upper tusks were most likely used to defend against predators. Fossil remains of amebelodons have been found world wide, including in eastern Oregon in the 1930s.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Queen Triggerfish

2012-01-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

THIS queen can change its makeup at will!

Our Plastic Queen Triggerfish

This beautiful, realistic-looking queen triggerfish replica is made of solid plastic with flexible fins. The body together with the solid part of the fins is 4 7/8 inches long, but together with the flowing fins, this amazing museum-quality triggerfish miniature is 6 7/8 inches long. Our triggerfish toy has a myriad of colors and can be used as a gift, for a science project, for decorations, or as a collectible. Check out our other tropical fish toys and gifts.

About Queen Triggerfish

The Queen Triggerfish (Balistes vetulae) is a common reef fish found primarily in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a commonly found on coral rubble, tops of reefs and in sea grass. Large triggerfish can reach up to 18 inches, but most are small and can be suitable for aquariums, but not in conjunction with other fish. It is agressive and may feed on smaller species. Normally the triggerfish feeds on small crustaceans and shrimp. It is good at camoflauge since and can change color quickly when frightened.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Emu

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know one emu egg is the equivalent of a DOZEN chicken eggs?

Our Emu

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic emu is made of hard, but somewhat flexible plastic. The emu has detailed features with feather etchings. The weight of this figurine is a little out of balance, so you may wish to glue a base on its feet to insure it maintains a solid stance. It is painted gray with blue accents. It makes for an interesting ornament, table setting, toy, or serves well in a diorama or school project. Check out our other emu toys and gifts.

About Emus

The emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is the largest bird of Australia. It is second in size to the ostrich among all birds. It is a flightless bird and belongs to the group of ratites, including the kiwi, which is found in New Zealand and the cassowary, found in New Guinea. It has soft brown feathers and can run up to 30 mph. It weighs around 50 to 100 lbs, has small vestigial wings and only three toes. It feeds on seeds leaves and small insects and travels long distances to find the right food.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Plush Hermit Crab

2012-01-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

Truely a unique addition to any plush collection!

Our Stuffed Hermit Crab

This playful stuffed hermit crab is made of extremely soft plush material. This replica has a detailed face and body with a loving expression. It is 12 inches long. It makes for a nice pet, fits into a stuffed animal collection or serves as a great cuddly friend and is fun for all kinds of games. Check out our other crab toys and gifts.

About Hermit Crabs

There are approximately 500 different species of hermit crabs living in saltwater intertidal zones. It isn't a true crab, but has a soft belly which it protects by crawling into an abandoned mollusk shell. This behavior of living in an abandoned cave evokes the image of a hermit, thereby getting its name. As the hermit crab grows, it must find an ever larger shell to inhabit. The hermit crab is fussy about which shell it takes. It likes those that have anemones or sea plants growing on it and even decorates his shell with these living things. This provides a symbiotic relationship, food for them and they provide better security from predators through camouflage.There are land varieties of hermit crabs and, surprisingly enough, there is an organization of hermit crab pet lovers, who keep them at home in aquariums.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Krill

2012-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

One of the smallest animals in the world, yet it feeds some of the biggest!

Our Plush Krill

This unusual-looking stuffed krill is soft, cuddly, and easy to hold. The legs are short, flexible, and are made of soft light pink, plush fabric. The body is bright pink and the head is covered with ribbed, silver-colored cloth with pink fur gills on each side. Two large black eyes, lots of antennae and a green thorax round out this lovely sea creature. Our krill has a kindly expression and wants to be your friend. This krill makes a nice pet or gift. Check out our other shrimp, lobster and krill toys and gifts.

About Krill

The krill are shrimp-like crustaceans that make up a vital part in the food chain. It is a small animal and varies in size from 1 to 4 inches. It is eaten by large mammals such as baleen whales and seals, by fish, and sea birds. Krill are the favored died of the blue whale, the largest aimals on earth. A blue whale can eat up to six million krill per day! Krill can be found in all the oceans and are near the surface at night and at greater depths by day. The name krill comes from Norwegian meaning small fry of fish.

There are many species of krill found throughout the world's oceans, but the most well-known krill is the Antarctic Krill or Euphausia superba. It can form large, dense swarms that attract whales, seals, penguins, squid, and predatory fish. By biomass, krill are perhaps the most successful multicellular animals in the world.

Krill are a type of plankton (actually zooplankton or "animal drifter"). Krill will eat even small zooplankton, but they prefer to dine on phytoplankton ("plant drifter") - and it is the abundance of this plant-life in their bellies that accounts for the green splotch visible through their transparent skin.

Although the international community outlawed the hunting of blue whales in 1966, many countries continue to harvest krill! Much of what is harvested becomes aquarium fish food, bait, or food for aquaculture fishes. But some is also used for human consumption. Krill have an intense, shrimp-like taste and are very salty. They are generally served minced or as a paste. However, because their exoskeletons contain a toxic fluoride, krill need to be processed immediately after harvesting. Otherwise, even little krill can kill.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Salmon

2012-01-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Amongst the First Nations, he's known as "suk-kegh"!

Our Plastic Salmon Model

This high-quality plastic salmon model is one of the most realistic plastic fish we have ever seen. It is suitable for museum and public aquarium displays as well as for school projects, science classes and biology education kits, educational toys, table decorations, restaurant decor and much more. The length is 5 inches, and the fins and tail are flexible but not posable. It will sit upright on a table with the head at a slighly downward angle.

About Sockeye Salmon

The sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) is an oceangoing salmon that also lives in fresh water rivers. Therefore it is anadromus. It is found mainly in the North Pacific and its associated rivers, especially in British Columbia and Alaska, although in 2010 sockeye salmon have been returning in large numbers to the Columbia River which makes the border between Washington and Oregon. The name "Sockeye" is allegedly a folk adaptation of an Indian word from a tribe along the lower Fraser River. In the ocean, where the sockeye lives for 4-6 years, the fish is all silver in color with a blue tinge, but when it returns to the river to spawn, the male becomes bright red with a black face. Spawning season is usually in July or August and, of course, it is totally amazing that the sockeye salmon finds its way back to the source where it was born. It is theorized that each river has a characteristic odor that the sockeye has memorized and therefore navigates by smell.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Bushbaby Mother with Baby

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Nothin' more snuggly than a momma and her baby!

Our Plush Bushbaby Mom and Baby

Our exceptionally soft, cuddly stuffed bushbabies by Fiesta are stitched together, giving you one mother and baby combination stuffed toy. Mom measures 9 1/2 inches to the top of her head in a seated position. Her wonderfully soft tail is 17 inches long, and that of the baby is 10 inches. What a cuddly pair! The eyes are hard plastic, and the cute pink noses are also made of plastic. The eyes, ears, legs and tail are securely attached making this charming stuffed animal duo a suitable toy for all ages. To find our other animals in the Fiesta line, or see our entire inventory of stuffed animals, beanies and puppets, check out our Stuffed Animal Page and Stuffed Beanies and Plush Puppets Page.

About Bushbabies

Like lemurs, bushbabies are prosimians, primates that are not as highly evolved as monkeys or great apes. Also called galagos and nagapies (Afrikaans for "night monkeys"), these small, nocturnal creatures are native to continental Africa. Their name comes from the animals' cries which sound much like a crying baby. Their strong hind legs, which are longer than their front legs, make them agile leapers. Their large eyes give them good night vision and their long tails help them balance. Their paws are remarkably like a human's hand with 4 fingers and a thumb.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Fiddler Crab

2012-01-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

This replica is actually close to life-size!

Our Plastic Fiddler Crab

Our fiddler crab is made of plastic and measures 2 1/4 inches from side to side and 2 inches from front to back. This plastic crustacean is one of our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Our fiddler crab toy is for decoration or play only. It does not float, and should NOT be put in your aquarium. However, you can make an interesting sea-life or aquarium shoebox diorama using this and other plastic aquatic creatures and mammals, sharks, fish, sea turtles, birds, and decor from our gift shop. There is no mess, no feeding, and no tank cleaning :) Check out our terrific selection of crab toys and gifts.

About Fiddler Crabs

Although there are over 50 crab families and 1000s of species, all crabs have basically the same body plan: four pairs of walking legs and one pair of claws (also called nippers or pincers). Their shell is actually their skeleton, called an exoskeleton, and protects their thorax, gills and the internal organs of the head. Like the octopus and sea star, if a crab loses a limb it will regenerate (grow back).

The term "fiddler crab" describes any of approximately 100 species of crab of the genus Uca. Fiddler crabs are characterized by their mismatched claws. The little claw is used for feeding, the motion giving it the appearance of playing a fiddle (the large claw). If a fiddler loses the large claw, the small claw will grow to take its place and the lost claw will regenerate into a new small claw. Fiddler crabs are small, the largest being just over 2 inches across.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Farm Cat

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

An absolute necessity on ANY farm!

Our Plastic Toy Farm Cat

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic farm cat miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has detailed fur and is painted orange and white. This house cat makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great cat collectible. Check out our other cat toys and gifts.

About Cats

Cats, both pedigreed and domestic, come in a rainbow of colors and patterns. These are all a matter of genetics, so a calico mother might give birth in one litter to a calico, tabby, and solid or bi-colored kittens, depending on her genetic background and the background of the male cat that fathered the litter. Cats come in three basic colors: red (commonly called "orange," or sometimes affectionately referred to as "ginger," or "marmelade"), black, and white. Common patterns include tabbies, solids, tri-colored such as calicos, tortoise shells, tuxedos and bi-colored. House cats are also broken down into three categorie DSH - Domestic Shorthair, DLH - Domestic Longhair and DMH - Domestic Medium length hair. Studies have shown that cat owners show as much love or more for the common domestic cat as owners of pedigree cats show to their animals.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Dingo

2012-01-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

An amazing addition to your Australian diorama!

Our Dingo

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic dingo miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose and sharp eyes. This dingo replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 1 3/4 inches long. Check out our other dingo toys and gifts.

About Dingos

The Dingo (Canis lupus dingo) is often called the Australian native dog. It is a domesticated dog which has been wild for a thousand years and lives independently from humans. There are similar dogs living in Thailand. Dingoes have a relatively broad head, a pointed muzzle, and erect ears. The fur of dingoes is short, bushy on the tail, and varies in thickness and length, depending on the climate. The fur color is mostly sandy to reddish brown, but can include tan patterns and be occasionally black, light brown, or white. Dingos are very often nocturnal in warmer regions, but more active during the day in cooler areas. Their main time of activity is around dusk and dawn. The periods of activity are short (often less than one hour) with short times of resting. They have two kinds of movement: a searching movement, apparently associated with hunting, and an exploratory movement, probably for contact and communication with other dogs.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Moose

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Another delightful new toy from TPF!

Our Plastic Moose

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic moose is made of semi-flexible plastic. The antlers and legs can be bent easily, and they snap back to their original position. Our toy moose is 4 1/4 inches long. This moose is great for school wildlife projects, gifts, toys, party decorations, for your animal collection and more. Check out our other moose toys and gifts.

About Moose

Although moose vary in size and shape, they are the largest members of the deer family. Males weigh on average over 550kg (1200 lbs) and females often more than 400kg. Newborn calves weigh around 15kg but quickly increase in size. Their color varies from a little brown to a dusty black depending on the season and age of the animal. Young calves are often a light rusty color. The moose has a long nose, drooping lip, hump at the shoulders and small tail, so you can see that the details in our model moose are quite accurate. Our collectible moose even has cloven hooves. The flap of skin that hangs beneath the throat is called a BELL. The correct name for a female moose is a COW; the male is called a BULL, and the young moose is called a CALF. Mothers are extremely aggressive, probably due to the scarcity of food in the winter, their greatest threat to survival.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Blue Crab

2012-01-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

Loved by millions...with a little lemon and garlic!

Our Plastic Blue Crab

Our plastic blue crab measures 2 inches from side to side. This plastic crustacean is one of our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Our plastic crab toy is for decoration or play only. It does not float, and should NOT be put in your aquarium. However, you can make an interesting sea-life or aquarium shoebox diorama using this and other plastic aquatic creatures and mammals, sharks, fish, sea turtles, birds, and decor from our gift shop. There is no mess, no feeding, and no tank cleaning :) Be sure to look over our other crab toys and gifts.

About Blue Crabs

Although there are over 50 crab families and 1000s of species, all crabs have basically the same body plan: four pairs of walking legs and one pair of claws (also called nippers or pincers). Their shell is actually their skeleton, called an exoskeleton, and protects their thorax, gills and the internal organs of the head. Like the octopus and sea star, if the crab loses a limb it will regenerate (grow back).

Atlantic blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus) are found in the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific coast of Central America, and the western waters of the Atlantic Ocean. While ignored as a food source in Central America, Atlantic blue crabs are fished extensively along the north Atlantic states of the United States. Atlantic blue crabs are the state crustacean of Maryland. In addtition to humans, Atlantic blue crabs are preyed upon by eels, sharks, trout, bass, and other fish. Atlantic blue crabs are omnivores, feeding on virtually anything smaller than themselves, including other blue crabs and carrion.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Australian Crocodile

2012-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

The reason a certain pirate captain is called "Hook"!

Our Plastic Toy Crocodile

This engaging, somewhat realistic-looking plastic crocodile miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has a detailed face and body and is painted in one shade of green, although the freshwater and saltwater Australian crocodile is more gray in color. It has detailed scales. This plastic crocodile makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other crocodile toys and gifts.

About Crocodiles

There are two kinds of Australian crocodiles, the Freshwater Johnsons Crocodile and Saltwater Estuarine Crocodile. Crocodiles have long narrow snouts, and the 4th tooth of the lower jaw is outside when the mouth is closed. Their scales have modified to form thick tough skin. All crocodiles have eyes and nostrils are on the top part of the head so that they can lie in the water almost completely hidden from view. Crocodiles have very strong jaws. They do not chew their food. They swallow it in large chunks. In the stomach the food is broken down. They feed on a large variety of prey such as small mammals, birds and even cattle. Crocodiles grab their prey and move to deep water, where they roll over to drown the animal. They can leap high out of the water to reach their prey if necessary.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Flying Squirrel Stuffed Animal

2012-01-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

Off we gooo...into the wild blue yonder!

Our Plush Flying Squirrel

What about this exceptional stuffed flying squirrel? Although it's made of synthetic materials, it looks so real you'll hardly believe it's a cuddly stuffed animal - a toy, not the real thing! This stuffed squirrel comes with a piece of clear line attached so you can "fly" it in the air as seen in the photo, or you can hang it by the ring attached to the line.

Read more about Hansa stuffed animals and see our selection of Hansa squirrels and other rodents.

About Flying Squirrels

The word "flying squirrel" is a general term referring to a group of squirrels in the family Sciuridae. The flying squirrel does not actually fly, but glides from tree to tree. Steering is accomplished by adjusting the webbing in its large wing-like arms. The flying squirrel's tail serves as a stabilizer. The squirrel generally has a short lifespan since it is prey to domestic cats, raccoons and owls.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic King Crab

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

You should see the size of his crown!

Our Plastic King Crab

Our king crab is made of plastic and measures 2 3/4 inches from side to side. This plastic crustacean is one of our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Our king crab toy is for decoration or play only. It does not float, and should NOT be put in your aquarium. However, you can make an interesting sea-life or aquarium shoebox diorama using this and other plastic aquatic creatures and mammals, sharks, fish, sea turtles, birds, and decor from our gift shop. There is no mess, no feeding, and no tank cleaning :)Come look through our entire collection of crab toys and gifts.

About King Crabs

The red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) is the most recognized species of king crab, being heavily fished in the Bering sea by fishermen made famous by the TV show "Dangerous Catch". They are very large. A red king crab can reach a carapace width of 11 inches and a legspan of almost six feet.

An interesting and widely-accepted theory suggests that these huge crabs may have evolved from hermit crabs (an evolutionary process called carcinisation). While there is still doubt about the validity of this theory, evidence supporting it continues to mount.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Bushbaby

2012-01-01T13:00:00.000-08:00

Wanna have a staring contest? Huh? DO ya?

Our Bushbaby

This engaging-looking plastic bushbaby replica is made of solid plastic and stands on a branch. It is 2 inches tall. The color is somewhat imaginative, but has distinctive highlights. Our bushbaby miniature has a concerned expression but promises not to bite. This bushbaby replica makes an interesting pet or gift and fits nicely into a shoebox diorama for a school project. Check out our other bushbaby toys and gifts.

About Bushbabies

Bushbabies are a well-known species of prosimians. They are found primarily in Central Africa. Bushbabies are small nocturnal primates with unusually large eyes for night vision, strong hind legs for jumping, acute hearing, and a long tail for balance. They are omnivorous, feasting on small lizards, insects and fruits. Females and their offspring live established territories and males form their own territory which may encompass several females with whom they mate.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Channel Catfish

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

A wonderful and unique gift for the fisherman in your life!

Our Stuffed Channel Catfish

This soft and colorful plush channel catfish toy is well-made and realistic in both color and appearance. Wonderfully detailed and 17 inches long, this isn't your typical stuffed animal! This channel catfish is stuffed with both soft fiber-filler and beans, allowing it to sit upright on it's belly. A fantastic gift for the fisherman, conservationist, or collector, this plush catfish replica would also make a wonderful addition to a school project, a theatre prop, a wildlife decoration, or simply to snuggle up to! Check out our other freshwater fish and fish toys and gifts.

About Channel Catfish

The most numerous North American catfish species, channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) are also the most fished catfish species, being targeted by approximately 8 million anglers every year. A weight of 2-4 pounds is common, and weights of 10-20 pounds are not unheard of. The world record for weight in a channel catfish was set in 1964 at 58 pounds.

Channel catfish have outstanding senses of taste and smell. They have taste buds spread over their entire body, and can l literally taste with their skin, particularly around the whiskers or barbels located near their mouth. These keen senses allow the channel catfish to find its prey in murky, dark, cloudy water, where vision is useless. Channel catfish are omnivorous, and have been known to be caught on such unconventional baits as bubble gum, soap chunks, and dough flavored with drink powder.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Kangaroo Mom and Baby

2011-12-31T13:00:00.000-08:00

Be truthful...just once, wouldn't you like to be carried like that?

Our Plastic Kangaroo Mom and Joey

Our plastic mother kangaroo with a baby (or "Joey") in her pouch is a wonderful addition to your Australian or marsupial (pouched) animal collection, your school project or diorama, or your kid's play room. And, your purchase helps save endangered species. This plastic kangaroo stands 3 inches tall from its toes to its ear-tips, and measures 4 1/2 inches from nose to tail. It has excellent lifelike details and is made of sturdy plastic or resin. It's great as a collectible plastic animal or as a toy. The baby is nestled firmly in mother kangaroo's pouch and doesn't come out.

About Kangaroos

The kangaroo is the national symbol of Australia and can only be found there. Male kangaroos are called bucks, boomers, jacks, or old men; females are does, flyers, or jills, and the young ones are joeys. They are often referred to as roos. The kangaroo's form of movement is hopping which they do at 13-16 mph. Kangaroos are herbivores, but the type of diet varies among the species. They are not raised commercially, but are hunted for their meat. It is thought that kangaroos would be a more environmentally friendly animal than the cow, since kangaroos don't emit menthane. Kangaroos tend to be crepuscular or nocturnal and choose to rest or sleep in the heat of the day.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Andrewsarchus

2011-12-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

Definitely not what'cha think of in a "hoofed" animal!

Our Plastic Andrewsarchus Replica

Made of solid plastic by Safari, Ltd., one of the best names in plastic toy animals, this Andrewsarchus's superior design and details make it a museum-quality replica or collector's item, and yet the price puts it in range for the average collector of plastic animals. It measures 4 1/2 inches from the pointy teeth to the curve of the tail and stands 1 7/8 inches tall. It comes with an informational tag in French, Italian, Spanish, German, and English. This sturdy, durable prehistoric predator is also excellent for school projects, novelties, party favors or even as a children's toy. You can make a marvelous Ice Age shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Come see our other ice age predator toys and gifts.

About Andrewsarchus

To date the only fossil remains found of this amazing ice age hoofed predator are a skull and a few bone pieces. They were found in Mongolia in 1924 during an expedition led by paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews, for whom the creature is named. After extensive study of the skull, it was concluded that this creature was a member of the only known group of carnivorus hoofed mammals called Mesonychids, which looked somewhat like wolves with hoofed toes. Mesonyx obtusidens, a small North American relative, was the model for current depictions of this predator. From the size of the skull (3 feet long), it was determined that Andrewsarchus was approximately 6 foot tall at the shoulder and 13-18 feet long (over twice the size of today's brown bear), making it the largest carnivous mammal in the world. There is a video link and some very interesting discussion on Andrewsarchus on the Laelaps blog. For additional information, check out the Andrewsarchus page and the "What are Mesonychids?" page at Bluelion.org.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Great Horned Owl Stuffed Puppet

2011-12-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Whoooo's that?
Whoooo wants to know?

Our Great Horned Owl Plush Puppet

Our charming stuffed owl hand puppet stands 18 inches high and is very kid friendly. It's feathers are soft fake fur, the feet are soft vinyl, and the eyes and beak are hard plastic. The eyes, beak, feet, wings and tail are securely fastened making this a great toy for children of all ages. The hand pocket, located under the tail, fits up to a grown-up-size hand. Inside is a rod to turn the head and a lever to "blink" the eyes. An informational tag with owl facts and a Mohawk folktale about the owl's eyes, is also included. To find our other hand puppets in this line, or see our entire inventory of stuffed beanies, puppets and animals, check out our Stuffed Beanies and Plush Puppets Page and Stuffed Animals Page. Be sure to look over our other owl toys and gifts.

About Great Horned Owls

The most widely distributed true owl in the Americas, the great horned owl (Bubo viginianus) ranges in length from 18 to 25 inches long and has a wingspan of 40 to 60.5 inches. The distinctive horns from which this raptor gets its name are neither horns nor ears, but simply tufts of feathers. The vision and hearing of the great horned owl are excellent. Their eyes are almost as large as a humans, but are immobile. Forced to turn its head to alter its sight direction, rather than just its eyes like a human does, the great horned owl is capable of turning its head nearly 270 degrees. With 200-300 pounds per square inch of crushing power in their talons (a typical man has a grip of about 60 psi), great horned owls prey on a wide variety of animals up to three times their own weight, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and even domestic dogs and cats.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Dust Mite

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

This cute little guy doesn't care about housecleaning!

Our Plush Dust mite

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed dust mite is soft, cuddly, and easy to hold. The legs are short, flexible, and are made of soft plush fabric. The body is light brown and the legs are gray-brown. Our dust mite has a kindly expression and promises not to make you sneeze. This dust mite makes a nice pet or gift. Check out our other dust mite toys and gifts.

About Dust Mites

The American dust mite (Dermatophagoides farinae) is about 250 microns in length and can only be seen with a magnifying glass. It is a disgusting-looking, hairy, eight-legged creature that feeds primarily on dead skin. It really does little harm. The dust mite is blamed for allergies and asthmatic reactions. It is best to wash sheets and pillows in hot water often since the dust mite thrives on skin particles especially from the scalp. The dust mite travels by air current from room to room. Most homes have them in some quantity. It is strange to think that the dust mite is a common household visitor.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Grizzly Bear

2011-12-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't snuggle up to one of THESE teddy bears!

Our Plastic Grizzly Bear

Check out the realistic details of this hollow plastic bear. Come see our wonderful assortment of grizzly or brown bear toys and gifts.

About Grizzly Bears

Grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horriblis, which translated means horrible northern bear) are actually one of two subspecies of Brown bear (Ursus arctos); the other is the Kodiak (Ursus arctos middendorffi). Grizzlies get their name from the "grizzled" appearance of their coat that is created by the white tips of the long guard hairs on their back and shoulders. Their coat color can vary from light cream to black, but is generally darkish brown. Highly intelligent creatures, grizzlies find food by employing complex problem solving skills. Although mature grizzlies are very large - females are 200 to 450 pounds, males are 300 to 850 pounds - at birth the cubs are about the size of a rat, weighing only about 1 to 1 1/2 pounds. Factors leading to their endangered status include: destruction of habitat, accidental killing by hunters who mistake them for black bears, illegal killing (poaching), etc.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Geoffory Tufted-ear Marmoset

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hello from the forests of Brazil!

Our Marmoset

This engaging-looking plastic Geoffory tufted-ear marmoset replica is made of solid plastic and stands on a branch. It is 2 inches tall. The color is somewhat imaginative since marmosets are generally gray with a ringed tail, but has distinctive highlights, especially the ears. Our marmoset miniature has a concerned expression but promises not to bite. This marmoset replica makes an interesting pet or gift and fits nicely into a shoebox diorama for a school project. Check out our other monkey toys and gifts.

About Marmosets

This Geoffory tufted-ear marmoset (Callithrix geoffroyi) is an intelligent thick-furred monkey found in Brazil. Marmosets are highly active, living in the upper canopy of forest trees, and feeding on insects, fruit and leaves. They have long lower incisors, which allow them to chew holes in tree trunks and branches to harvest the gum inside. They also follow troops of army ants which force insects up tree trunks, making them easy prey. The Geoffrory tufted-ear marmoset is found often in zoos and breed there easily.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Skate

2011-12-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Little brother to the shark and manta ray!

Our Plastic Skate or Stingray

Our plastic stingray measure 6 inches from the tip of its nose to the tip of it's tail and is about 3 1/2 inches wide. It is gray plastic with dark gray hints on top and a yellow underside showing the mouth and gills. On the top side, you can see its two eyes painted with white and black. This stingray or skate would be a wonderful addition to a school project, aquatic diorama, or just to have as a toy or collectable. Check out our other skate and stringray toys and gifts.

About Skates and Stingrays

The stingrays are part of the Dasyatidae family. They are cartilaginous fishes related to sharks. They are common in coastal tropical and subtropical marine waters throughout the world. Stingrays get their name from the barbed stinger on their tail which is used for self-defense. Their stinger can reach a length of 35 cm and has two grooves with venom gland on the underside. The flat body of the stingray allows them camoflauge themselves in their environment by hiding beneath the sand. Stingrays use their sense of smell to locate their prey. They feed on molluscs, crustaceans and small fish. Stingrays are born into litters of five to thirteen. Parts of the stingray are edible. Mainly the wings and cheeks of the stingray are used as food the rest of it is considered too rubbery. The skin of stingrays can be used to make exotic shoes, belts, wallets and anything else leather is typically used for. People often ask how to tell the difference between a skate and a ray. Rays give birth to live young, while skates lay eggs. However, it is not usually possible to use this method when you are seeing one for a short period of time! Skates often have a more pronounce dorsalf in, but in truth, it is much easier to confuse them than to tell them apart, except for such unique-looking species ast the spotted eagle ray, the manta ray, and others you may become familiar with. Personally, I think this one is a skate, as skates often have a more pointed shape . . . but that's no guarantee! The manufacturer calls this one a "skatefish."

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Gazelle

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Here's the reason a cheetah NEEDS all its speed!

Our Plastic Gazelle

The markings on the gazelle pictured above most closely resemble the Thompson's gazelle. This small toy gazelle is made of solid white plastic with the colors are painted on. It measures 2 1/8 inches long from nose to tail and stands 1 3/4 inches to the tip of its horns. Although parts of the toy are somewhat flexible, it is not posable. The word "GAZELLE" is embossed on the underside. NOTE: NOT suitable for children under 3 years of age. Be sure to look over our other antelope toys and gifts.

About Gazelle

A fairly small type of antelope (2 to 3 feet high at the shoulder), gazelles (Gazella) are swift, graceful animals able to maintain high speeds for extended periods of time. Their coat is usually fawn colored and some have striking black and white markings. The horns on most gazelles curve back and in and are heavily ringed. Three species of gazelle are extinct and the remaining species are endangered to varying degrees. The most widespread of all antelope, gazelles live in herds in the African grasslands and savannas. They are also found in southwest Asia.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Beaded Lizards from Guatemala

2011-12-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

More exquisite Guatemalan artwork!

Our Beaded Lizards

It was another one of those very lucky days when Catherine Todd (same last name, no relation) contacted me about taking some of our plastic animals to Guatemala so the artisans could craft beaded animals with the plastic replicas as a realistically-shaped base. The subject at hand was camels for a special project, but it seems the artisans make a wide variety of unique animals covered with a woven beaded "skin." Imagine my delight when a package arrived including these delightful lizards! When you purchase one of these unique animals from our collection, you help in a number of ways. You help save tapirs, because that's what we do. You help the local artisans in Guatemala who need an outlet for their work (yes, jobs!), and you help my new friend Catherine with her sustainable business of working with the artisans of Guatemala to maintain jobs for themselves and make beautiful art for many people around the world to enjoy. The beading on these lizards is securely stitched into a woven fabric of beads that completely covers the lizard and is very sturdy. Unlike some beaded animals I've seen that are beautiful and engaging but very delicate, these lizards are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. Check out our other frog items as well as our page of beaded animals from Guatemala.

About Green Anole Lizards

"Anole" lizards refer to members of the family Polychrotidae. The green or Carolina anole (Anolis carolinensis) is the only anole native to North America, concentrated in he southeastern United States.

While the green anole has the ability to change the color of it's skin in reaction to mood or threat, it is not a true chameleon. The green anole can also self-amputate its tail in response to an attack, but again, it is not related to the gecko. The green anole spends most of its time in trees, hunting small insects. An influx of the Cuban brown anole into Florida and the deep south has begun to push the native green anole further north.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Capybara

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Introducing a rodent bigger than many dogs!

Our Plastic Capybara Replica

This sturdy, light-weight plastic rodent is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic capybara is for decoration or play only. You can make an outstanding South American shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Best of all, there is no mess, no feeding, and no tank or cage cleaning :) Come check out our other capybara toys and gifts.

About Capybara

The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is related to guinea pigs and chinchillas. Capybara are the largest living rodents in the world, reaching lengths of over four feet long and weights of as much as 150 pounds. Their range is densely-forested parts of South America near bodies of water. While not native to lands outside of South America, capybara have been introduced to similar habitats around the world as escapees from captivity, including the marshes of Florida and the western coast of California.

Capybara are herbivores, feeding primarily on aquatic plants, tree bark, fruit, and grasses. They are themselves a favored prey of large cats and eagles, and are farm-raised for meat and pelts across South America. A Papal Bull (a document issued by the Pope in Rome) declared the capybara a fish, allowing capybara to eaten during the Catholic holiday of Lent. As a result, poaching of capybara increases during the period right before Easter.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Capuchin Monkey

2011-12-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

Go out on a limb with this little guy!

Our Plastic Capuchin Monkey

This engaging-looking plastic capuchin monkey replica is made of solid plastic and stands on a base. It is 2 1/4 inches long. The thin parts including the branch are flexible. The color is somewhat imaginative, but has distinctive highlights.Our capuchin monkey miniature has a concerned expression but promises not to bite. This capuchin monkey replica makes an interesting pet,or gift and fits nicely into a shoebox diorama for a school project. Check out our other monkey toys and gifts.

About Capuchin Monkeys

Capuchin Monkeys are considered New World monkeys and are found in Central and South America. Capuchin monkeys were discovered by Spanish explorers in the15th century and, because of their hood-appearing face, reminded them of the hooded Capuchin Friars, an offshoot of Franciscian monks. New World monkeys like the capuchin have noses that are flatter than the narrow noses of the Old World monkeys, and have side-facing nostrils. They also have a prehensile tail.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Badger

2011-12-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just look at those TEETH!!

Our American Badger Replica

Our realistic-looking American badger is made of hollow plastic and measures 3 1/4 inches from nose to tail. The body is moulded with a fur-like pattern and details that almost make it seem real. Its name is moulded into the underside. This sturdy, light-weight plastic badger is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic American badger is for decoration or play only. You can make an awesome North American forest shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Best of all, there is no mess, no feeding, and no tank or cage cleaning :)

About American Badgers

The American badger (Taxidea taxus) is found primarily in the western and central United States, northern Mexico, and central Canada. They are similar to European badgers, being nocturnal, stocky and low-slung animals with powerful legs and large foreclaws. Males are larger than females, measuring up to 30 inches long and weighing almost 20 pounds. A carnivore, American badgers prey on mice, rats, groundhogs, squirrels, and ground-nesting birds. American badgers are known to attack ground-nests of bees, eating not only the insects but the honeycombs as well.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Baby Cheetah

2011-12-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

This winter, snuggle up to this little guy!

Our Adorable Stuffed Cheetah Baby

Our wonderfully lifelike stuffed baby cheetah by Hansa is a toy that looks amazingly like a real animal. The plush cheetah baby is 7 inches tall sitting up as you see it in this photo. Its cute wrap-around tail is just peeking out from behind the cheetah. Our lifelike Hansa cheetah is sewn with soft plush fabric made especially to match the markings of this animal. It has longer fur around the head and down the back in a small mane like a real cheetah with shorter hair on the face and body. The spots on the head, body, tail and legs are realistic with the "signature" black markings below the cheetah's eyes and around its muzzle. Attention to detail is important with all Hansa stuffed animals, and this cheetah toy is no exception. The long, thin, whiskers and with extra-soft plastic nose help anyone bond with this cute toy. The ears have a soft light peach-colored fabric inside. Our baby cheetah has a slighly puzzled curious look, as though it is learning to explore its world. It promises to snuggle next to you and be your friend. Our baby cheetah complements nicely any stuffed animal collection. Hansa toys are modeled after animals in real life, and they tend to keep the feel of an individual animal. This is one reason Hansa stuffed animals are so collectible. Kids love them and bond with them for years to come. I've known adults that "just have to" cuddle these adorable animals, too! Each piece is hand-stictched in the Philippines by crafters willing to produce a unique item each and every time. Check out our other cheetah toys and gifts or broaden your search to all of our cats. You can also read more about Hansa stuffed animals and see our selection.

About Cheetahs

The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a large feline predator native to Africa and the Middle East. Best known for being the fastest living animal on Earth, an adult cheetah can accelerate from zero to over 60 mph in three seconds, and can maintain a speed of 70-75 mph for bursts of just over 500 yards. A not so well-known fact is that cheetahs are the only felid with non-retractable claws and pads, and because of this, cheetahs cannot climb vertical tree trunks the way other cats can.

Cheetahs hunt during the day (usually in the early morning or early evening, when it's cooler), and hunt by sight rather than scent. The incredible speed of a cheetah means that a chase is over very quickly...either the cheetah succeeds, or it burns up its energy reserve and cannot continue the chase. The sacrifice of that speed is physical strength, which means cheetahs cannot defend their kills against larger predators. As such, a successful cheetah will consume as much of it's kill as it can immediately following the chase, then abandon the kill when other predators arrive.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Museum-Quality Alligator

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Open up and say aaah...

Our Plastic Museum-Quality Alligator

Check out the details of this wonderful alligator. Its superior design and details make it a museum-quality replica or collector's item, and yet the price puts it in range for the average collector of plastic animals. It can also be be used for school reports and displays or as a toy. This animal is made of very sturdy solid plastic, and each one comes with an information card.

About Alligators

An Alligator is a crocodilian in the genus Alligator. The name alligator comes from Spanish el lagarto (the lizard), the name by which early Spanish explorers and settlers in Florida called the alligator. There are two living alligator species: the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and the Chinese alligator. It is an ancient animal and has survived for 200 million years. An average adult American alligator's weight and length is 800 pounds and 13 feet long. According to the Everglades National Park website, the largest alligator ever recorded in Florida was 17 feet 5 inches. The Chinese alligator is smaller, rarely exceeding 7 feet in length. Alligators have an average of 75 teeth.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Hand-Painted Beagle Pin

2011-12-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

Not a WW1 Flying Ace, but dashing and stylish just the same!

About our Painted Wildlife Jewelry

Our individually-painted wild and domestic animal jewelry is very special and unique. Take a look at these beautiful creatures and fall in love! Each piece is about 1 1/2 inches at the longest dimension. The jewellry is also available in gold plate, silver plate, bronze plate, and pewter. Call for details on our regular line (503) 325-3179, use our new toll-free number (888) 325-3179, or order above.

If you don't see the animal you want, please ask! Made in Washington and Idaho by a team of three U.S. artists, these high-quality pins and tie tacks are unique. Each exquisitely detailed piece of animal jewelry is cast in pewter and painted by hand. The finish is extremely smooth and shiny, as you can see by the highlight from the scanner. Each pin is secured by two sturdy tacks on the back so it doesn't skew sideways or turn upside down, except for the head-only pins, which are secured by one tack near the top, which keeps the animal right-side up. The finished product is not only gorgeous, but satisfyingly substantial in weight. This collectible animal jewelry can be used as lapel pins, hat pins, tie tacks, and more. They are heirloom quality, and the details are so realistic, they are found in museum gift shops and bought by organizations in need of the perfect animal to represent their group. In fact, if you're interested in having the name of your organization put on an item, write to us for details.

About Snoopy, and "A Charlie Brown Christmas"

The first prime-time animated TV special taken from the comic strip "Peanuts" (created by Charles Schultz in 1950), A Charlie Brown Christmas first ran in 1965, and has run every December since. The special has been awarded both an Emmy and a Peabody award, and is arguably the most recognized and beloved animated Christmas show ever made.

Amongst the cast of characters is Snoopy, the beloved pet beagle of the strip's central character, Charlie Brown. The character of Snoopy began as a conventional dog in the comic strip, but evolved over time into the strip's most dynamic character, showing a level of sophistication, wit, charm, skill, and clarity to rival any animated character. In "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (as in every Peanuts special), Snoopy has no actual dialogue, yet manages to effortlessly communicate with both the audience and the characters through action and emotion. This sets Snoopy apart from most other animated characters, who communicate primarily through dialogue. As part of his character, Snoopy is a writer, a fashion and interior designer, a World War 1 flying ace, and a motorcycle enthusiast.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Reindeer

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen...

Our Plastic Reindeer

Lines of the hair are moulded into the plastic and details include moulded and painted foot pads! The length of 3 1/4 inches is measured from the nose to the right hind foot and the height of 3 1/2 inches is measured to the top of the antlers. It comes with an informational tag in French, Italian, Spanish, German, and English. Made of solid plastic by Safari, Ltd., one of the best names in plastic animals, its superior design and details make it a museum-quality replica or collector's item, and yet the price puts it in range for the average collector of plastic animals. This sturdy, durable reindeer is also excellent for use in school projects, dioramas, or even as a children's toy. The word "REINDEER" is embossed on the underside. Check out our terrific selection of deer, elk and moose toys and gifts.

About Reindeer

Reindeer and Caribou are the same species (Rangifer tarandus) and are members of the deer family. They are found on Greenland and large northern islands as well as in North America and Eurasia in tundra and northern forest regions. In Europe they are called "Reindeer" and have been domesticated for 2000 years or more. In North America the wild animals are called "Caribou" and the domesticated are "Reindeer". Domesticated animals are slightly smaller than the wild animals and their coloring is different, but in all wild and domestic stock both males and females have distinctive antlers which they shed and regrow every year. Their large, concave hooves spread wide to support the animal in snow and soft tundra and work as paddles when swimming. Reindeer are protected from extremely cold temperatures by unique hairs that trap air. This also helps keep them afloat when swimming. Reindeer are very social herding animals and the domesticated ones are very friendly, likeable and curious and are easy to fence, feed and train to pull.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Hummingbird

2011-12-23T13:00:00.000-08:00

He's kickin' it in Acapulco right now!

Our Stuffed Ruby-throated Hummingbird

This engaging, realistic-looking, plush, stuffed ruby-throated hummingbird replica is part of the Audubon Bird Series. This lovely hummingbird replica is 9 inches long from beak to to tail and sings an authentic hummingbird bird call. Check out our other hummingbird toys and gifts.

About Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

The Ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is a common hummingbird that can be found often in the Eastern portion of the United States. It frequently visits bird feeders, as it is inquisitive in nature.The ruby - throated hummingbird is metallic green in color with black wings and has a particularly slender beak. It migrates in the Winter long distances to Mexico and even as far South as South America. It tends to be agressive with other birds, especially other hummingbirds. It makes rapid squeaking chirp to warn off competitors.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Hyena Replica

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

This guy LOVES leftovers!

Our plastic museum-quality hyena

This realistic-looking educational, museum-quality hyena replica is made of hard plastic. It is 4 inches from nose to tail. It stands 2 1/2 inches off the ground in a typically agressive gesture. This miniature hyena has detailed fur and is colored in brown with black spots and a black nose. This toy hyena's mouth is agape, showing its tongue and teeth. It is so realistic which makes it an excellent way to teach people about this amazing African animal. It serves as a great example for a science project, a gift, or serves as a collectible. Check out our other hyena toys and gifts and our growing collection of mixed and miscellaneous realistic toy animals.

About Hyenas

The hyena is an African plains animal. It is a strange animal that is in many ways similar to both dogs and cats. Like wild dogs, they are rarely found in forests. The hyena hunts and runs like a dog and also like a dog it attacks using its teeth rather than its claws. Doglike, hyenas eat their food quickly and may store it. They run on their calloused feet, which have large, blunt, non-retractible nails. These attributes facilitate running and making sharp turns. Like cats, they groom incessantly, mark with scent, and have a similar parental and young-rearing behavior. According to Wikipedia, the spotted hyena is very vocal, producing a number of different sounds consisting of whoops, grunts, groans, lows, giggles, yells, growls, laughs and whines.The striped hyena is comparatively silent, its vocalizations being limited to a chattering laugh and howling. Hyenas are often called cowards because they steal and scavenge other animals' kill, but they also hunt in packs and bring down many weak or slower animals.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Carabiner Frog Flashlights Back In Stock!

2011-12-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

They're back to brighten your world!

Our Carabiner Animal Flashlights

Our carabiner animal flashlights are the coolest way to make sure you always have a light nearby! Look at the tail, they simply open up to snap onto a key ring, backpack, belt, book bag, or anyplace else a person can hook something. The light is surprisingly bright for such a small item! Keep one next to your bed, by the back door, inside your car or on your bike. The light is bright enough to find things in the dark - such as finding the lock on your house or car door. Helps keep both kids and adults safe when unexpected scenarios come up. Just press the button on the critter's back, and you have light! Is there a better way to find the outhouse on a camping trip than to let our flashlight animals find the trail for you? Or what about lighting your way on Halloween? Fun for birthday parties, as stocking stuffers, or Hanukkah gifts for any age. Check out our other frog toys and gifts and our multi-style animal flashlights. The animal flashlights page also shows you what the lights look like when the light is on! If you have a teeeeeny little screwdriver, you can pop in a replacement battery. However, we've noticed that the lights last for quite a long time on the original battery.

About Strawberry Poison Dart Frogs

Poison dart frogs are amphibians of the family Dendrobatidae and are native to Central and South America. These frogs are brightly-colored and active during the day, protected by their universal toxicity. Poison dart frogs get their name from their famous contribution to native cultures, whose hunters used them to poison their blowdarts. Only three of the 175 species of poison dart frogs have been documented being used in this way, and while all poison dart frogs secrete toxins, the level of toxicity varies widely from one species to another.

Strawberry poison dart frogs (Oophaga pumilio) are common throughout its habitat of Central America. This amphibian is terrestrial, hunting and roaming the organic debris of both forested habitats and cultivated regions.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Black Scorpion

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

They have this animal near Bethlehem too!

Our Plastic Scorpion

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic scorpion replica is made of rubbery plastic with bendable appendages. This scorpion replica has elaborate detail and is painted entirely black. This toy scorpion is 7 inches long from tail to the tips of its claws.This rubber black scorpion makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible or a terrific gag or party favor. Our plastic scorpion is especially useful at Halloween. Check out our other scorpion toys and gifts.

About Scorpions

Scorpions are found in warm regions. They are arachnids, and therefore more closely related to spiders than to insects. They are found not only in the desert, but also in forests. They spend much of the day under logs and leaf litter, and feed mostly at night on spiders and insects. Most scorpions are only painful to humans and are not especially dangerous, although a few can deliver a fatal sting. Children and elderly people are more at risk from their venom than strong, healthy adults. The approximately 2,000 species of scorpion vary widely in size, from about 1/2 inch to 7 inches long. Our plastic scorpion is most likely an artistic version of the Arizona desert scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis pallidus), characterized by a dirty light brown/yellow color and a black to brown streak on its back. People have collected scorpions and made a commercial product out of them in the form of paperweights and keychains by placing them inside moulded plastic. Because of this, they have become over-collected and are now "a CITES-listed animal, meaning scorpions could be threatened with extinction if exportation and other threats, such as development, are not regulated." [Wikipedia]

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

A Blessed Yule To All!

2011-12-21T13:00:00.000-08:00

One of the ORIGINAL Yuletide animals!

Our Plastic Nanny Goat or Doe

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic nanny goat miniature is made of flexible plastic with bendable appendages and is 2 3/4 inches long and about 2 1/2 inches tall. This replica has elaborate detail and is hand painted white, tan and pink. Our nanny goat has distinct dark eyes and pinkish hooves. It has hints of tan and yellow in the face, horns and tail. The udder on this milk goat or mother goat is visible, but can't be seen from the angle of the photo. The goat is an educational replica that fits nicely into a farm diorama, or serves as a miniature pet or a great farm animal collectible. Check out our other hoofed animal toys and gifts. Among them are quite a few other farm animals.

About Yule Goats

The Yule goat is one of the oldest Norse (Scandinavian) traditions in relation to the Winter Solstice holiday of Yule, celebrated by modern Pagans on December 20-21. The tradition has evolved much through the years. For centuries, the Yule goat was an invisible creature that walked the land, insuring that Yule/Christmas preparations were completed properly. This evolved into a mystical creature that delivered presents to children, a tradition that was eventually replaced by the Father Christmas idea (although, in modern Finland, the Finnish name for Father Christmas, "Joulupukki", means "Yule Goat"). Today through much of Scandinavia, Yule goats are straw or wooden ornaments used to prank neighbors. The victim has the Yule goat placed prominently, yet secretly, on their house or property, and the penalty is that they now must prank another neighbor with the same ornament.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Beaded Lizard Keychains from Guatemala

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Let this little guy keep track of your car keys!

Our Beaded Lizard Keychains

The beading on these lizard animal keychains is securely stitched into a woven fabric of beads and is very sturdy. Unlike some beaded animals I've seen that are beautiful and engaging but very delicate, these lizards are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. The lizards are very nice looking. It was hard to get adequate photos because of the interesting angles. The eyes are bright faceted crystal-like beads which always have an angle to the light, making it look like there is life in the lizard's eyes. Each beaded lizard keychain has a skin pouch under its throat and diamond shapes on its back. Check out our other lizard items as well as our page of beaded animals and beaded keychains from Guatemala.

When you purchase one of these unique animals from our collection, you help in a number of ways. You help save tapirs, because that's what we do. You help the local artisans in Guatemala who need an outlet for their work (yes, jobs!), and you help my new friend Catherine with her sustainable business of working with the artisans of Guatemala to maintain jobs for themselves and make beautiful art for many people around the world to enjoy.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Stegosaurus Skeleton Model Back Again!

2011-12-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

Not quite extinct!

Our Stegosaurus Skeleton Model

About Stegosaurus

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Parakeet or Budgie

2011-12-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

A delightful addition to your aviary!

Our Stuffed Parakeets

We think this stuffed parakeet is exceptional. It is so lifelike and compelling, you almost won't believe it's a stuffed toy and not the real thing. Although it's made of synthetic materials, it looks real. The designer of the Hansa line of stuffed animals takes pride in the European heritage of his realistic animal design. Each piece is hand-cut and stitched.

This is not your ordinary stuffed animal. Our stuffed bird has the charm and quality you'll want to keep for a lifetime. It's the kind of toy your child will remember for years to come. It's the kind of "pet" a young child will want to name and create his or her own stories about.

About Parakeets

The word "parakeet" is a general term referring to any number of small to medium-sized seed-eating birds of the parrot species. The parakeet is a found throughout the world with many species living in tropical South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Other than in the United States, the parakeet, which means long-tailed, is known as a budgie or budgerigar. They make amazing pets and, although mistkenly called lovebirds, they seemingly show affection and the ability to mimic the language of humans. After overcoming initial fear, parakeets chirp when their owner is nearby and will cuddle, show contentment, and strut their proud feathers.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Bloodwood Tapirs from Colombia

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Support conservation efforts with this unique, hand-carved collectible!

Our Bloodwood Animals

Tapirs of Colombia

Colombia is the only country that is home to more than two species of tapir. Three distinct species and one subspecies inhabit the country. Mountain tapirs live in one chain of the Andes mountains, lowland tapirs live in much of the jungle (eastern) area of Colombia, and a very few Baird's tapirs live in the far north near the Isthmus of Panama. There is also a subspecies of lowland tapir called the Colombian tapir living in an isolated area called Santa Marta. Colombia is still a frontier for tapir discoveries. The Colombian tapir, a subset of the lowland tapir, was believed by some to be a distinct subspecies, but it was only clearly distinguished as such in the past few years. Some people believe that Baird's tapir, which can be found in a small pocket in the north of Colombia also ranges down the dense, barely-accessible western coast. There have been reports of sightings or tracks of Baird's tapir in the west, but no definitive evidence has been brought to light. We hope that Baird's tapir will be someday be identified for certain as living along Colombia's west coast.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Custom-Made Mountain Tapir Aluminum Earrings, Pins, and Pendants

2011-12-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

Make a fashion statement while you make a stand for tapir conservation!

Our Custom Aluminum Earrings, Pins, and Pendants

This animal jewelry is unique! Any item can be ordered in a variety of colors. This sturdy, light-weight mountain tapir aluminum jewelry is made by Corinna Bechko, who is not only an artist, but has worked at the Los Angeles Zoo in the research division. She attended the Jewelry Arts Academy in Manhattan. What a lucky day it was for us when she discovered our web site and suggested we might want to see the jewelry she makes!

Customers have a wide variety of choices. Pendants and earrings come with a bead. Corinna will try to find any color you want, so bead choices are almost endless. The tapir itself comes in a variety of colors as listed in the drop-down menu above. Each mountain tapir measures about 1 1/4 inches from nose to tail. The pendants hang on a 17-inch black silk cord (included). Your color choice can be made up quickly - probably in only a few days. You will find examples of the earrings, pins and pendants and some color combinations, as well as the other animal types we sell, on our page of Aluminum Jewelry. Make sure to come look through our entire collection of tapir jewelry.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Soft Play Latex Octopus Replica

2011-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

C'mon...who wants a hug? Eight arms...no waiting!

Our Soft Play Latex Octopus

This realistic-looking plastic-coated soft play octopus is a terrific replica. It is 21 inches long, but will stretch out to 26 inches when you pull on the partially posable tentacles. It is also 6 inches tall. Our octopus replica has a hard latex coating and a soft inner body possibly made of foam. It is an excellent toy for children because it is light weight and durable. It serves as an educational toy for a science project or as a gag or unusual gift. Check out our other octopi toys and gifts.

About Octopi

Octopi are cephalopods that can be found in rocky areas especially among coral reefs in the oceans throughout the world. The octopus has 8 arms which trail behind it when it swims. It is considered to be the most intelligent animal of all invertabrates. It emits a cloud of inky substance as a defense against predators as well as possessing a venomous bite. Most octopuses have a short life span of no longer than six months.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Beaded Frogs from Guatemala

2011-12-17T13:00:00.000-08:00

A beautiful, brilliant ornament!

Our Beaded Frogs

It was another one of those very lucky days when Catherine Todd (same last name, no relation) contacted me about taking some of our plastic animals to Guatemala so the artisans could craft beaded animals with the plastic replicas as a realistically-shaped base. The subject at hand was camels for a special project, but it seems the artisans make a wide variety of unique animals covered with a woven beaded "skin." Imagine my delight when a package arrived including these delightful frogs! When you purchase one of these unique animals from our collection, you help in a number of ways. You help save tapirs, because that's what we do. You help the local artisans in Guatemala who need an outlet for their work (yes, jobs!), and you help my new friend Catherine with her sustainable business of working with the artisans of Guatemala to maintain jobs for themselves and make beautiful art for many people around the world to enjoy. The beading on these frogs is securely stitched into a woven fabric of beads that completely covers the frog and is very sturdy. Unlike some beaded animals I've seen that are beautiful and engaging but very delicate, these frogs are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. Check out our other frog items as well as our page of beaded animals from Guatemala.

About Frogs

Frogs are among the most diverse animals on the planet. They come in an astounding range of colors, sizes and shapes, and more than 5,000 species have been described worldwide. They are amphibians in the order Anura (meaning "tail-less", from Greek an-, without + oura, tail). Frogs are among the most commonly-known animals to most people, and yet we probably think of them in generic terms. Once you begin to read about frogs, you realize how different each species is from the next. Typically, they are exceptional jumpers, and many of the anatomical characteristics of frogs, particularly their long, powerful legs, are adaptations to improve jumping performance. Many frogs have an extremely loud call which is most often used during their mating season. Although the greatest number of frogs are found in the tropical rainforests of the world, they can be found in a wide range of climactic zones. Frogs may live in trees or on the ground, but they always live near water. Their skin becomes dry easily and this will inevitably lead to death. Some populations of frogs are declining significantly, and there are important organizations dedicated to their study and conservation. Frogs have long been a favorite subject in art, literature and legend, and many people collect images and replicas of frogs.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Chinchilla

2011-12-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Too cute to be made into a coat!

Our Plush Chinchilla

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed chinchilla is soft and cuddly. The chinchilla replica is sewn with soft plush mottled synthetic fur and is sturdy enough to stand on its feet and rump. It reflects the total quality of stuffed animal toys made by Hansa. The head is accentuated with large realistic looking eyes, a light muzzle with fine whiskers and large fur-lined pink ears. This plush chinchilla is about 11 inches long, including its beautifuly curled, gray tail. Our stuffed chinchilla has a kindly expression and promises not to bite. This chinchilla makes a wonderful gift for chinchilla pet lovers and nicely complements any stuffed animal collection. Check out our other chinchilla toys and gifts.

About Chinchillas

Our Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is the common long-tailed chinchilla. It is the size of a small rabbit, crepuscular, and is found in the Andes of South America. Its name, chinchilla, comes from the name of a tribe of Andean people, the Chincha, who adorned themselves with furs from this rodent. In their native habitat, chinchillas live in burrows or crevices in rocks. They are agile jumpers and can leap up to five feet. Predators in the wild include hawks, skunks, felines, and canines. Chinchillas have a variety of defense tactics including spraying urine and releasing fur if bitten. In the wild, chinchillas have been observed eating plants, fruits, seeds, and small insects. Chinchillas were brought to the United States in the 1920s and were domesticated and sold in pet stores. There are several chinchilla owner pet clubs and lots of information on how to care for a domesticated pet chinchilla. The native Chilean chinchillas have been hunted for human apparel since the early 1900s. Around 1900, an estimated 500,000 chinchilla skins were exported annually from Chile. Chinchilla pelt is considered by some to be the most valuable pelt in the world, and coats have sold as much as $100,000. This scale of hunting seriously depleted the number of wild chinchillas, and the international trade in wild chinchillas or their skins is now restricted by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Beaded Dragonfly Keychains from Guatemala

2011-12-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

Amazing artistry from Latin America!

Our Beaded Dragonfly Keychains

The beading on these dragonfly animal keychains is securely stitched into a woven fabric of beads and is very sturdy. Unlike some beaded animals I've seen that are beautiful and engaging but very delicate, these dragonflies are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. Check out our other dragonfly items as well as our page of beaded animals and beaded keychains from Guatemala. When you purchase one of these unique animals from our collection, you help in a number of ways. You help save tapirs, because that's what we do. You help the local artisans in Guatemala who need an outlet for their work (yes, jobs!), and you help my new friend Catherine with her sustainable business of working with the artisans of Guatemala to maintain jobs for themselves and make beautiful art for many people around the world to enjoy.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Holstein Bull

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Rounding out our Holstein family!

Our Plastic Holstein Bull

This realistic-looking plastic Holstein bull is made of hard plastic and is constructed with attention to detail. It is 5 1/2 inches long and 3 1/4 inches tall. This Holstein bull makes a nice pet, a gift, fits into a cow collection, or is useful for a diorama. Our plastic bull can be used in a number of ways including as a gift indicating a bride price among certain cultures, and as a part of a Christmas manger scene. Check out our other cow toys and gifts.

About Holstein Cows

The Holstein cow is a popular dairy cow which originated in what is today Holland. The Dutch breeders bred and oversaw the development of the breed with the aim of obtaining animals which would make best use of grass. The result was an efficient, high-producing black-and-white dairy cow. It is black and white due to artificial selection by the breeders. It is the most common dairy cow in America.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Fawn

2011-12-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

A warm and snuggly companion!

Our Stuffed Fawn

We think this stuffed fawn toy is exceptional. It is so lifelike and compelling, you almost won't believe it's a stuffed toy and not the real thing. Although it is made of synthetic materials, it looks real. This wonderfully detailed baby deer measures 23 3/4 inches long, 9 1/2 inches wide and 13 inches high to the tips of the ears. The designer of this unique line of stuffed animals takes pride in the European heritage of his realistic animal design. Each piece is hand-cut and stitched.

This is not your ordinary stuffed animal. Our plush deer baby has the charm and quality you'll want to keep for a lifetime. It is the kind of toy your child will remember for years to come. It is the kind of "pet" a young child will want to name and create his or her own stories about.

To find our other Hansa stuffed toy animals, or see our entire inventory of stuffed animals, stuffed beanies and plush hand puppets, check out our Stuffed Animals Page and Stuffed Beanies and Plush Puppets Page. Check out our terrific selection of deer, elk and moose toys and gifts.

About Deer

Deer are herbivore mammals of the family Cervidae. Many species of deer exist on every continent except Australia and Antarctica, including the white-tailed, red, fallow, roe, chital, and Chinese water deer. Also included in the Family Cervidae are elk, moose, and reindeer. Deer typically weigh 70-600 pounds. They have slender frames and powerful legs, which make them exceptional runners, jumpers and swimmers. The earliest deer fossils date back to the Oligocene epoch, over 23 million years ago.

All male deer and female reindeer have antlers, bony forked appendages that grow from their heads. The only exception to this is the Chinese water deer, which has tusks. Antlers are shed and grow back annually. This makes them different from horns, which are permanent.

Deer have had a significant economic, cultural, and spiritual impact on humans throughout history. From the earliest European cave paintings to Walt Disney's movie "Bambi," Kate Seredy's book The White Stag, and Nintendo's Pokemon "Stantler," deer have captured our imagination. To this day, deer are pursued for sustenance, immortalized in heraldry and popular culture, and revered by belief systems old and new for their speed, strength, and nobility.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Lamb

2011-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

Perfect for your manger diorama!

About Our Plastic Sheep

Made of hand-painted, solid plastic by Safari, Ltd., one of the best names in plastic toy animals, this sheep family's superior design and details make them museum-quality replicas or collector's items, and yet the price puts them in range for the average collector of plastic animals. The ram measures 3 1/2 inches from nose to rump and stands 2 1/2 inches tall. The ewe measures 3 inches from nose to rump and stands 2 1/2 inches tall. The lamb measures 2 inches from nose to rump and stands 1 1/2 inches tall. Each sheep comes with an informational tag in French, Italian, Spanish, German, and English. These sturdy, durable farm animals are also excellent for school projects, novelties, party favors or even as children's toys. You can make a superb farm scene or farm animal shoebox diorama using these and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Best of all, there is no mess, no feeding, and no stall or pen cleaning :) Come see our wonderful assortment of farm animals.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.