Swine Flu (Influenza A virus H1N1) Plush Toy

This little "bug" gave the whole world a Halloween scare!

Our Swine Flu (Influenza A virus H1N1)

Plush Stuffed Toy

This imaginative-looking stuffed, plush swine flu (Influenza A virus H1N1) toy is soft and cuddly and is 5 1/2 inches long. It is adorned with red plastic eyes and embroidered nostrils. The surface is washable: Simply sponge with a mixture of warm water and mild soap. Allow to air dry, then brush to restore fabric to its original fullness. (SAFETY PRECAUTION: Remove plastic hangtags and ribbons before giving to a child under 3 years of age.) This stuffed plush swine flu virus replica is a great collectible or makes for a gag gift. Check out our other worm, leech, and virus toys and gifts.

About the Swine Flu (Influenza A virus H1N1)

Swine flu is an influenza virus that usually affects pigs. However, just as the common, seasonal flu that affects humans is constantly mutating (as our immune systems and vaccines compromise weaker strains), swine flu is always trying to improve itself so that it can become more virulent, spread faster - and even associate with better company.

Occasionally, a pig-headed virus such as Influenza A (H1 N1) actually succeeds and begins infecting other species - like humans. Naturally, this raises philosophical questions as to whether it is still a swine flu: since it's new, it isn't widespread in the porcine population - and anyway, once it's affecting other species, well. . . .

Nevertheless, once a virus such as swine flu makes the jump to another species, the health risks in the new population are substantial. In the original host-population, some immunities generally exist against the original strain, and these immunities are often at least partially effective against new mutations. In a new host, however, there may be no natural immunity to the original strain and no partial immunity to the new strain - so the virus can spread rapidly. In addition, a virus that produces mild effects in one species may be life-threatening in another - so catastrophic health consequences can result.

Fortunately, swine flu viruses are generally fragile, and in most cases basic health precautions (such as hand-washing and avoiding close contact with those who are ill) significantly reduce the chance of infection. Nevertheless, the dangers of future mutations and infections will continue to abound until, well, pigs fly.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Flea

Such a cute little bug, and SOOO much damage...

Our Stuffed Flea

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed flea is soft and floppy. The legs are made of soft plush fabric allowing for a myriad of postions. The body is light brown. Our flea has a kindly expression and promises not to bite. This flea makes a nice pet, a gift to a dog or cat lover, or to the local veternarian. Check out our other flea toys and gifts.

About Fleas

The word "flea" is a general term referring to any number of small wingless insects in the order Siphonaptera. The flea is a parasite and lives off the blood of mammals and birds. The flea is usually 1/8 inch long, dark brown to red-brown in color, wingless and possessing a tube designed to suck blood from its host. The flea's body is hard, smooth and flat in order to crawl with ease through hair. Its body is tough and adapted to withstand the scratching and biting of the annoyed host. In relation to its size, the flea is the greatest jumper of all living creatures.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Ostrich

Now those are some AMAZING drumsticks!

Our Plastic Ostrich

This plastic ostrich replica is a male. The females are usually dark brown or gray. Our ostrich stands 2 1/2 inches tall and measures 1 inch across the brown base. Because of the base, it stands up and can easily be used for displays and school dioramas. Be sure to see our other ostrich and emu toys and gifts.

About Ostriches

The ostrich (Struthio camelus) is a flightless African bird standing between six and nine feet tall. The four subspecies are found in various locations in Africa. Ostriches and emus are often confused, as they look quite similar, but the ostrich comes from Africa, and the emu from Australia. Ostriches stand on their two toes, run very fast, and can attain weights of 200 to about 285 pounds. The chicks grow very fast, up to 10 inches per month as youngsters. An ostrich can live for 75 years.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Malayan Tapir Keychain

Carry your support with you in your pocket!

Our Pewter Malayan Tapir Keychain

This lifelike and detailed Malayan (Asian) tapir replica was hand-cast for The Tapir Preservation Fund in the state of Washington and made into a durable keychain. The fine detailing makes it a handsome and unique piece. Although it is not in color, you can see a faint line where the black and white colors of the real tapir separate. The facial features and musculature are strong - and while we're speaking of strength, the keychain is extremely durable. It's made of heavy pewter burnished to a shine, and two small rings attach it to the ring that is provided for keys. The word "TAPIR" is clearly imprinted above the animal. The size is also substantial. The oval with the tapir in it is 2 inches long at the outside, and the ring for keys 1 1/4 inches across. You will love this high-quality, unusual piece of tapir art, and your purchase will support the conservation of these endangered animals in the wild. The same tapir casting was used for the very special hand-painted Malayan tapir pins/tie tacks also made for especially for TPF.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Aquatic Genet

Not as good a swimmer as you might think!

Our Plastic Aquatic Genet

Our aquatic genet is striking and quite beautiful with its orange color and carefully moulded details. Our toy is made of hard plastic and measures 3 inches from nose to tail and stands approximately 3/4 inches high. This plastic genet cat is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic aquatic genet is for decoration or play only. You can make a spectacular 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 :) Check out our terrific selection of genet toys.

About Aquatic Genets

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.

Despite the name, the aquatic genet (Osbornictis piscivora) is a poor swimmer. It is so named because it's diet consists mainly of the fish and other aquatic creatures it captures by diving into the streams of it's native Zaire.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Camel Finger Puppet

An adorable little friend for any youngster!

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 Cowrie Shell

One man's snail is another man's diamond!

Our Plastic Cowry Shell

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic cowrie is made of solid plastic. The body has well-defined detail. It is 1 1/2 inches long. The underside shows the animal in the shell and is light purple in color. This cowry shell adds dimension to a sealife school project or fits in a diorama. Check out our other sealife toys and gifts.

About Cowry Shells

Cowries or cowrys are marine organisms from the family Cypraeidae and are gastropods, namely snails. They usually are small, but some can be found over a foot long. These cowrie shells have been used by tribes, especially in Africa, as currency and, of course, as jewelry. Cowrie jewelry usually was reserved to chieftans as a sign of honor.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Squirrel Monkey

Meet a VERY distant cousin of mine...

Our Plastic Squirrel Monkey

Our squirrel monkey toy animal is made of solid plastic and measures 3 inches from the nose to the bend of the tail. Its name is molded into the bottom. This plastic animal toy is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic monkey is for decoration or play only. You can make a superb "Monkeys of the World" shoebox diorama using this and other plastic monkeys 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 monkey toys and gifts.

About Squirrel Monkeys

Squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) belong to the New World monkey group which are found only in South America. They are endangered due to capture for medical research and the pet trade, illegal hunting and habitat destruction. These agile creatures are active in the daytime and are mostly arboreal, meaning they live in trees and seldom descend to the ground. With a body length of 10 to 14 inches long and weighing 1 to 3 pounds, they are the smallest member of the primate family. Their non-prehensile tail is 14 to 18 inches long with a black tuft at the tip and is used for balance when feeding and traveling.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Heartworm

Wanna give Fido a chance to bite back?

Our Heartworm

This strange-looking stuffed heartworm is an unusual replica. It is 9 inches long and is made of white synthetic fur and has large eyes and wears a collar. If you aren't a worm lover, you will be after you own this adorable little fella. I am sure you'll want to give this play one to your dog. It makes a sqeaking sound, but you wouldn't want him to get a real one This plush heartworm toy makes a nice pet, a gift, toy or gag and could work well for a school play or show-and-tell as a school science project. You might want to give our stuffed heartworm to your favorite veterinarian as a gift. On the other hand, veterinarians might like to keep a few of these around the office as a gift for a favorite client or as a reminder to give your pet those heartworm pills! In fact, if you know anyone who has trouble remembering to keep their pet's heartworm pills current, this could be an excellent reminder! Check out our other worm toys and gifts.

About Heartworms

Heartworm is a parasitic roundworm (Dirofilaria immitis) that is spread from host to host through the bites of mosquitoes. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the arteries of the lungs and occasionally in the right side of the heart of dogs, cats and other species of mammals, including wolves, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and (in rare instances) humans. Heartworms are classified as nematodes (roundworms) and are filarids, one of many species of roundworms. Dogs and cats of any age or breed are susceptible to infection.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Hand-Painted Pewter Leopard Shark Jewelry

A beautiful, unique piece of art you can wear!

Our Leopard Shark Pin

Made in Washington and Idaho by a team of three U.S. artists, these high-quality pins or tie tacks are unique. Each exquisitely detailed piece is cast in pewter and painted by hand. The finish is extremely smooth and shiny, as you can see by the highlights. Each pin is secured by two sturdy tacks on the back so it doesn't skew sideways or turn upside down, and the finished product is not only gorgeous, but satisfyingly substantial in weight. They can be used as lapel pins, hat pins, tie tacks, and more. These collectible animal pins 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. We can also get this design for you in pewter finish, bronze plate, silver plate, or 24-karat gold plate (ask about prices). You can find more fish and animals by the same artists listed on our Hand-Painted Jewelry page.

The leopard shark pin or tie tack measures about 1 3/4 inches long by about 5/8 of an inch tall. Be sure to see our other shark jewelry.

About Leopard Sharks

The Leopard Shark is so named for its distinctive dark brown saddles and splotches on a silver to dark gray background. They are found in the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean where they feed on crustaceans, worms and small fish. They range in size from 3-6 feet and can live 25 years.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Wolf Pup

Adopt one of Mowgli's brothers!

Our Plush Wolf Pup

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed wolf is soft and affectionate-looking. Its legs are made of plush hair and are sewn together to replicate a lying position. The body and head are light gray and light tan with black around the muzzle and ears of the wolf's head. Our wolf is probably a cub. He has a kindly expression and promises not to bite. He makes a nice pet, a gift, or fits perfectly into a stuffed animal collection. Check out our other wolf toys and gifts.

About Wolves

Our beautiful stuffed wolf appears to depict a young gray wolf (Canis lupus), which is also known as a timber wolf. The adult is the largest wolf, about 3 feet in length and weighing about 100 pounds. It once roamed freely throughout North America and Eurasia, but hunting and habitat destruction has taken a significant toll on the wolf population. Great efforts have been undertaken to reintroduce the wolf to areas of the Northwest and Idaho with cooperation of ranchers, who see the wolf as a threat to livestock, especially sheep. The wolf is incredibly adaptable to climate and terrain and can travel long distances. It can withstand frigid temperatures and can be found in snowy mountains, high deserts and plains. Its claws and padded feet are designed with special webbing for hanging on to slippery surfaces. Wolves have bulky coats consisting of two layers. The first layer is made up of tough guard hairs designed to repel water and dirt. The second is a dense, water-resistant undercoat that insulates. The wolf is a special animal to be appreciated by all. It has been valued by native people in their art and religion.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Toy Woolly Mammoth Calf

He has his mama's hair...

Our Plush Woolly Mammoth

We think this stuffed woolly mammoth baby is exceptional. It is so lifelike and compelling. Although it is made of synthetic materials, it looks real. This beautifully detailed woolly mammoth measures 12 long, 4 1/2 inches wide and 9 inches high to the top of the head. The animal's tusks are made of soft short-napped fabric. 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 woolly mammoth 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 Animal Page. Be sure to see our other mammoth- and elephant-related toys and gifts.

About Woolly Mammoth Calves

There is ample scientific evidence to prove woolly mammoths (Mammuthus primigenius) tended to gather in matriarchal social groups. Studies of growth rings in recovered tusks show that mammoths lived as long as modern elephants…about 60 years. Cave paintings from the time period also show mammoths collected together in groups. It is speculated that, like modern elephant groups, mammoth groups traveled together and actively defended their young from predators.

A well-preserved seven- to eight-month-old woolly mammoth calf was recovered in northeastern Siberia in 1977. It weighed about 220 pounds at its death and was about 3 1/2 feet tall. The carcass was dated at about 40,000 years old. Then, in 2007, the remains of a one-month-old woolly mammoth calf were discovered, also in Russia. This new calf was dated at 37,000 years old. In both carcasses, the internal organs were all similar to those in modern elephants. Scientists are currently exploring the possibility of using cloning technology to produce a woolly mammoth calf from a modern female elephant.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Velociraptor Skeleton Model

A fantastic, unique gift for the dinosaur lover!

Our Velociraptor Skeleton Model

This realistic-looking velociraptor skeleton model is made of strong plastic and is sturdy when assembled. It is 9 1/2 inches long and 6 1/2 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 velociraptor 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 Velociraptors

The velociraptor, or "speedy raider," lived in the Cretaceous period in what is now Mongolia. It was a two-legged, feathered carnivore with a long, stiffened tail and an enlarged sickle-shaped claw on each hindfoot, which is thought to have been used to kill its prey. The velociraptor was popularized in the movie Jurassic Park, but it was made much larger and without feathers. The velociraptor was really only the size of a turkey, but nontheless ferocious.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Soft Play Latex Giant Panda Replica

The vegetarian of the bear world!

Our Soft Play Plastic Giant Panda

This realistic-looking latex-coated soft play giant panda is a terrific replica. It is 8 1/2 inches long. It is also 4 1/2 inches tall. Our panda replica has a soft plastic "skin" and a squishy inner body possibly made of foam. It is an excellent toy for children because it is light weight and durable, and it's not likely to damage anything by its impact if a child throws it. It serves as an educational toy for a science project or as a gag or unusual gift. Check out our other panda toys and gifts.

About Pandas

The Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is found in cental and southwestern China. It is a member of the bear family and in the order of carnivores,(which implies meat-eating) although, in its natural state, it eats exclusively bamboo shoots. The giant panda has been impacted heavily by encroaching civilization and is considered an endangered species with probably no more than 1500 individuals living in the wild with about 250 animals living in captivity. It is a docile animal and is not known to attack humans. It is slowly replacing the dragon as China's national symbol.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Realistic, Flexible Plastic Crayfish

Studying freshwater ecology? We have your project's centerpiece right here!

Our Plastic Crayfish

This realistic-looking flexible plastic crayfish replica or toy is made to look a lot like a real crayfish with bendable appendages. And, IT FLOATS! This replica has elaborate detail including tiny little feet and is painted orange with black stripes on the tail and gray detailing on the back, claws, and tail. Its eyes are a beady black that reflect highlights so it appears that the crayfish is actually looking at you! This could be good if you're using it for a diorama or toy, or it could be bad if you're using it for decor at a crayfish bake! Our crawfish has distinct detailing and is 4 1/2 inches long from tail to the tips of its feelers. Our plastic crawdad makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. This crustacean is for decoration or play only. Even though it floats, it should NOT be put in your aquarium with living fish. Check out our other lobster, shrimp and crayfish toys and gifts.

About Crayfish

Crayfish, crawfish or crawdads are freshwater crustaceans and are related to lobsters. They are a commonly found in running freshwater streams and lake beds where they live in crevices or under rocks. They can not tolerate pollution but feed on dead organic matter and plants. There are numerous species of crayfish widely distributed throughout the world. In such diverse places such as China, Australia, France, Mexico, and Scandanavia, the tail is eaten as a delicacy in soups or bisques or the crawdad is served whole at feeds. No geographical place covets the crayfish more than in Louisiana where the crayfish can be found prepared in any number of Cajun recipes. Since the demand is so high they are farm raised making it an important food crop for the local economy. Not only do humans love crayfish, but they are an excellent bait for bass, muskies and crappie. Unfortunately fishermen have spread crayfish species that compete with native varieties. Crayfish also make lovely pets and can be kept in freshwater aquariums.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Ty Beanie Babies

A classic gift for the collector in your life!

Our Ty 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 Polar Bear

One of the greatest predators on Earth!

Our Plastic Polar Bear

Our polar bear toy animal is made of hard plastic and measures 2 1/4 inches from nose to extended back foot. This plastic animal toy is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic bear is for decoration or play only. You can make an awesome arctic or bears of the world shoebox diorama using this and other plastic creatures from our gift shop. Come look through our entire collection of polar bear toys and gifts.

About Polar Bears

Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) live in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway, and Russia, mainly within the Arctic Circle. They are adapted for living on ice and snow, and have evolved to fill a small niche in the ecosystem. The polar bear's diet consists mainly of seals. There has been a lot in the news lately about the plight of polar bears due to the thinning ice in their Arctic home. The IUCN now lists global warming as the most significant threat to the polar bear, primarily because the melting of its sea ice habitat reduces its ability to find sufficient food. Polar bears are the world's largest carnivore species found on land. They are also the largest bear, together with the omnivorous Kodiak bear, which is about the same size.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Lion

A noble addition to your African diorama!

Our Plastic Lion

This nicely-detailed toy lion is made of solid white plastic; the colors are painted on. This plastic big cat is great for school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic lion is for decoration or play only. You can make a fantastic African savannah 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 :) Check out our terrific selection of lion toys and gifts.

About Lions

Lions (Panthera leo), 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 Caterpillar

A fantastic piece to add to your school project!

Our Plastic Caterpillar

This engaging, realistic plastic caterpillar is made of hard durable plastic. It is 2 3/8 inches long including feelers. Our caterpillar resembles the larva stage of the luna moth. 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 caterpillar toys and gifts.

About Caterpillars

A caterpillar is the larval form of a member of the order Lepidoptera, the insect order comprising butterflies and moths. Like other insects, the caterpillar consists of three body parts, the head thorax and abdomen. The thorax and abdoment are segmented. They have three pairs of true legs on the three thoracic segments, up to four pairs of prolegs on the middle segments of the abdomen, and often a single pair of prolegs on the last abdominal segment. There are ten abdominal segments. Caterpillars breathe through slits in their thorax and abodmen which are called spirales, and move along by flexing a series of approximately 4000 muscles. They also have remarkably good eyesight, since they have six small eyes on each side of their head. Of course, they are voracious plant eaters and are viewed as a pest to crop growers. Caterpillars have developed all kinds of defense mechanisms against predators. Some have spiny, stinging hair, others put off a noxious odor. In any case, caterpillars are amazing creatures, especially in the way they transform into butterflies or moths.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Raven Hand Puppet

Who's that knocking...knocking at your chamber door?

Our Raven Puppet

Our captivating stuffed raven hand puppet stands 16 inches high and is very kid friendly. It's feathers are soft fake fur; the legs and beak are soft vinyl. The plastic eyes, legs, beak, 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 and operates the head and beak. There are also pockets under the wings. An informational tag containing raven facts and a Native American folktale, is 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. Come look through our entire collection of bird toys and gifts.

About Ravens

Found across the northern hemisphere, the common raven (Corvus corax) is the most widely distributed of all raven species. Common ravens are approximately 25 inches in length, weigh 2.5 pounds, and usually live 10 to 15 years in the wild. They are onmivores, feeding on virtually anything, including fruit, grains, small animals, carrion, and food waste.

Ravens have been the subject of popular human culture across its habitat range and throughout time. In pre-Christian Norse and Celt traditions, the raven is a messenger and information gatherer for the gods, while in indigenous cultures of Siberia and the Pacific Northwest, the raven is revered as a god in its own right. Even though the raven was said to be the first animal released from Noah's Arc, and appears many times throughout the bible, most post-Christian western cultures believe the raven to be a harbringer of ill-luck and death.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Guinea Pig Finger Puppet

A lovable and wonderfully cuddly little friend!

Our Guinea Pig

This adorable little stuffed guinea pig finger puppet is both realistic and extremly soft. Our guinea pig is 5 inches long and has been well crafted by Folkmanis. It has a lined pocket to control its little head and tender fur covering its body. 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.

Flexible Plastic Spotted Moray Eel

Invite this little guy to your pool party!

Our Plastic Moray Eel

This moray eel is beautifuly detailed, closely matching the real thing in shape. It is made of floppy, flexible (not posable) plastic that always pops back into its original position (shown here). It's hollow and it squeaks when you squeeze it. We're not sure what species it is, because the ones we've seen in photos have either larger or smaller white spots. It may be a whitemouth (or white mouth) moray - the spots on some of the pictures we've seen are not too far off in size (some are much smaller), but you'll have to decide for yourself. Our moray has eely teeth and a pink mouth. See also our other lovely eel toys and gifts.

About Moray Eels

The whitemouth moray eel lives in much of the Indo-Pacific ocean, including the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. We've seen them while snorkeling in Hawaii. What a thrill! The ones we saw were small, and they are quite beautiful sea animals with their high-contrast colors and sleek bodies. Moray eels are among the Order Anguilliformes, which are broken down into fifteen different families.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

The most popular pet in America...just ask them!

Our Plastic Toy House Cat

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic house cat miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic. This replica has detailed fur and is painted orange and white. It may be a long-haired cat but it is hard to tell the breed. 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 House 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 Manatee

Truely a unique addition to any aquatic display!

Our Plastic Manatee

This solid plasic manatee by Safari, Ltd., is realistic-looking, with gray folds and facial details molded into the plastic. The features such as flippers, eyes, and even the folds, are enhanced with paint. Each one has its name ("manatee") moulded on the bottom, and each comes with an informational tag. Our manatee replica inoffensive and friendly-looking like their live counterparts. Priced affordably, these life-like miniature manatees are great for personal animal collections, school projects and dioramas, or they can be used as toys.

About Manatees

In the wild, there are three species of manatee: (Genus - Trichechus) West Indian, West African, and Amazonian. All three are endangered and protected by international law. They are gentle, slow moving marine mammals which spend most of their time searching underwater for edible plants. They can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and eat about 100 pounds of aquatic plants per day. Be sure to check out our other manatee toys and gifts.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic African Elephant

A fantastic replica of a noble animal!

Our Plastic African Elephant

This plastic elephant from Safari Ltd. is wonderfully detailed. Safari is known for its museum-quality plastic animals (solid plastic, not hollow) that are sturdy, life-like, and affordable. These plastic toys are great for school projects, dioramas, your personal collection, or the toy-room floor. Come see our wonderful assortment of African elephant toys and gifts.

About African Elephants

Until recently, it was believed that there were only two species of elephant - African and Asian (Elephas maximus). However, in 2004, DNA evidence proved that there are actually two true species of African elephant - African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana) and African forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis). African savannah elephants are the largest elephant, African forest elephants are slightly smaller and Asian elephants are the smallest elephant. African elephants have larger ears than the Asian elephant. In the African species, both the male and female elephants have large visible tusks. In the Asian species only the males have large visible tusks. The females have small tusks called tushes that are not usually visible. African elephants only have one dome on the top of their head, and the flat forehead is slightly sloped. The Asian elephant has two distinct domes at the top of its head. There is a projection on the end of the elephant's trunk that is referred to as a "finger." African elephants have two "fingers" on the end of their trunk, and will use a grasping motion when picking things up. (This is much like the way we use our thumb and forefinger.) The Asian elephant has only one "finger," so it has to curl the end of its trunk around anything it wants to pick up. All three elephant species are endangered because of poachers who hunt them for their tusks.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Ladybug

A friend to both children and gardeners!

Our Plastic Ladybug

This engaging, realistic, plastic ladybug is made of hard durable plastic. It is 1 1/2 inches long and 1 1/8 inches wide. 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 ladybug toys and gifts.

About Ladybugs

The ladybug is general term of a family of beetles, Coccinellidae, with over 5000 species. In some parts of the world they are called ladybirds or lady beetles. They are small, about 3/8 inch and are generally orange,scarlet or yellow with black spots on their wing covers. This bright coloration acts as a defense mechanism against predators, who associate it with toxicity or acrid odor. In fact, the ladybug secretes an oily yellowish substance from its leg joints when roughly handled. The ladybug is a useful insect since it eats garden pests such as aphids, mites, and mealybugs. It is fun to find them and watch them crawl about, but sometimes they can be a household pest as well. I have seen them hatch by the hundreds.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Red-Eyed Tree Frog Carabiner Flashlight

Let him sit on your shoulder Halloween night!

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 Red-Eyed Treefrogs

The red-eyed treefrog (Agalychnis callidryas) is an amphibian native to the Central American rainforests. Its dominantly-green coloration allows the red-eyed treefrog to blend in with the leaves and other foliage of its arboreal home. They are fantastic jumpers and have sticky pads on their toes for gripping to trees and leaves.

Red-eyed treefrogs are carnivorous, feeding mostly on insects and occasionally smaller frogs. They are not poisonous, depending on their coloration to hide from predators. As with many species of the rainforests, the red-eyed treefrog’s primary threat is deforestation throughout its habitat range for agricultural purposes.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Fossa

An exotic and unique addition to any collection!

Our Plastic Toy Fossa

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic fossa miniature is made of hard, somewhat flexible plastic. This fossa replica has detailed fur and is painted brown. The fossa body is 2 inches long and the tail is one inch long. This miniature fossa makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama for a school project or serves as a great collectible. Check out our other fossa and mongoose toys and gifts.

About Fossas

The fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) is a large carnivore found exclusively in Madagascar. Related to the mongoose, it behaves much more like a leopard. It spends much of the time in the trees and it leaps from tree to tree like a squirrel. It is almost 3 feet long and weighs as much as 15 pounds. Some think that the fossa is entirely nocturnal since they are rarely sighted. It hunts fish, birds and particularly enjoys eating lemurs. Fossas have no natural predators, but have suffered like most Madagascar animals from the incursions of man.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Koala with Baby

G'day from Down Under!

Our Plastic Koala with Baby

Our lifelike koala and baby are made of a sturdy resin and painted in lifelike colors. The details make it an interesting gift, teaching aid, or collector's item. The size (2 inches) is measured from front to back of the mother.

About Koalas

The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is not a bear, but a marsupial, found only in Australia. It lives exclusively in trees and is a herbivore. It looks a little like a wombat, but is a tree dweller. It has long sharp claws adapted for climbing and weighs 11 to 30 lbs. A baby koala is referred to as a joey and is hairless, blind, and earless. At birth the joey, only a quarter of an inch long, crawls into the downward-facing pouch on the mother's bellywhich is closed by a drawstring-like muscle that the mother can tighten at will) and attaches itself to one of the two teats.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Pelican

As soft and cuddly as he is unique!

Our Plush Pelican

Our stuffed pelican is a sheer delight. It is 15 inches from its floppy brown and pink cloth beak to its wiggly fur tail. It is 7 inches from wing-tip to wing-tip. It has a cute tuft of hair on the crown of its head and its plastic eyes are surrounded by bright pink material. This stuffed pelican makes a perfect companion for a child or fits wonderfully into any stuffed animal collection.

About Pelicans

A pelican is any of several very large water birds belonging to the family Pelecanidae. Birds in this family have a distinctive pouch under the beak. They occur mostly in warm regions, but pelicans also frequent the cooler water off the Pacific Northwest (United States and Canada), especially in the summer months. They are large birds with an amazing pouched bill. Pelicans often fly as a flock. They have excellent eyesight. They dive well and can also swim. Fishermen watch for pelicans, since they locate bait fish with such ease. They often catch fish by expanding the throat pouch. Then they must drain the pouch above the surface before they can swallow. This operation takes up to a minute, during which time other seabirds are particularly likely to steal the fish. Large fish are caught with the bill-tip, then tossed up in the air to be caught and slid into the gullet head first.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Woolly Mammoth Mother

How do you suppose she brushed those teeth?

Our Plush Woolly Mammoth

We think this stuffed woolly mammoth toy is exceptional. It is so lifelike and compelling. Although it is made of synthetic materials, it looks real. This beautifully detailed woolly mammoth measures 16 long, 6 1/2 inches wide and 12 inches high to the top of the head. The animal's tusks are made of soft short-napped fabric. 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 woolly mammoth 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.

The literature says, "The magical kingdom of Hansa plush was originally created for the most exclusive European clientele. Europeans have treasured these lifelike heirloom creatures for over twenty years. . . . Each Hansa piece is a handcrafted masterpiece, lovingly designed from portraits of real animals. The 'skin' for each of these marvelous beasts is hand-cut and trimmed, never stamped out by machine. The fabric for spotted and striped animals is custom designed and specially manufactured in small lots to Hansa's exacting specifications."

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 Animal Page. Be sure to see our other mammoth- and elephant-related toys and gifts.

About Woolly Mammoths

The woolly mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) is perhaps the best-known species of mammoth. The earliest bone records of this species are around 150,000 years old, and it went extinct over most of its range approximately 10,000 years ago. A race a dwarf woolly mammoths existed on Wrangel Island off the coast of Russia until roughly 3700 years ago. Amazingly, many specimens of woolly mammoth remains are not fossilized, but are frozen organic matter.

Fully-grown woolly mammoths could be as tall as 13 feet and weighed nearly 9 tons. It’s named for the thick coat of shaggy hair which could grow to over three feet in length and was probably shed in the summer months. Unlike modern elephants, the woolly mammoth had numerous glands under its skin that secreted fatty grease into the mammoth’s hair. These characteristics, along with a typical fat layer nearly three inches thick, gave the woolly mammoth excellent insulation against both wet and cold weather conditions.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Hissing Cockroach

A few of these on your Halloween buffet table will set the mood!

Our Hissing Cockroach

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic hissing cockroach is made of hard, flexible plastic. It is 3 inches long and 1 3/4 inches across from leg tip to leg tip. Our cockroach comes from Madagascar and is large with orange and black stripes. Our hissing cockroach replica is a little disgusting, but promises not to bite. 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 cockroach toys and gifts. Just to clarify, our toy cockroach does not make any noise - that's the species name of the real cockroach.

About Cockroaches

Hissing cockroaches are of the genus (Gromphadorhina portentosa) are found in Madagascar and are among the largrest cockroaches in the world.They are wingless and are often 2-3 inches long. They live in rotting logs and feed on rotting material and last for about five years. It gets its name by forcing air through its breathing pores in its abdomen, whereas other insects make sound by rubbing legs together.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Maggot

Just the thing for your haunted house!

Our Stuffed Maggot Toy

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed maggot is soft and cuddly. Its body is made of soft plush fabric and shows well-defined segments. The body is light golden yellow. Our maggot has a kindly expression and promises not to gross you out too much. This maggot makes a nice pet, gift, novelty, presentation piece for a school project, or gag gift. Have you noticed how some guys call each other "Maggot"? What could be a more perfect gift! Sometimes veterinarians like to keep maggot replicas on the desk as visual aids for discussions! See our other maggot toys and gifts.

About Maggots

The word "maggot" is a general term referring to the larval stage of flies, but can be applied to the larval stage of many other insects.Certain kinds of maggots have been used for centuries in wound treatment, since maggots eat only eat deads tissue and leave healthy live tissue alone. There is some question as to whether maggot secretions create, in themselves, harmful bacteria. Maggots can come in large quantities and are usually found in rotting meat around garbage cans or dead animals. Maggots develop into flies, so there is the potential for flies to become numerous if maggots are left to develop to the adult stage.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Welsh Corgi

A cute and lovable companion!

Our Plastic Welsh Corgi

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic Welsh corgi miniature is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose and sharp eyes and looks like the Pembroke Welsh corgi. This Welsh corgi replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 2 inches long and reddish brown and off-yellow in color. Check out our other dog toys and gifts, and watch for more detailed domestic dog replicas to come available very soon!

About Welsh Corgis

The Welsh corgi is made up of two breeds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Cardigan Welsh corgi. The Pembroke is smaller than the Cardigan corgi and has pointed ears and a short or bobbed tail. The word "corgi" comes from Welsh and means dwarfed dog. This breed has been popularized by Queeen Elizabeth who has four corgis. The corgi comes with a variety of coats varying from red brown, rust to dark brown. They can be affectionate dogs and are great pets.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Red Ant

His bark is worse than his bite!

Our Plush Red Ant

This engaging, realistic-looking stuffed red ant is soft and cuddly. Its body is made of soft plush fabric and shows well-defined segments. The body is red and has large plastic eyes and fine antenna. Our red ant replica has a kindly expression and promises not to bite. This stuffed red ant makes a nice pet, gift, novelty, presentation piece for a school project,or gag gift. See our other ant toys and gifts.

About Red Ants

There are over 200 species of red ants, some small and some large. The most common red ant is known as the fire ant. It is a biting ant which grabs on and then stings with a poison called Solenposin. Fire ants live in mounds in moist open area and spend time eating plant material and occasionally a cricket. The colony consists usually of one or more queens, surrounded by drones and workers. The queen can produce up to 1500 eggs in one day.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Carabiner Frog Flashlight

A useful and cute friend to have around!

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 Blue 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.

Known to the native Tirio tribe as Okopipi, the blue poison dart frog (Dendrobates azureus) is native to souther Suriname and northern and central Brazil. All are a piercing blue color, with black spots so individually distinctive that individual frogs can be identified by their patterns.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Hummingbird

Does a hummingbird hum? Find out with this wonderful plush friend!

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.