Plastic Howling Wolf

Sing with us now...AAAROOOOOOO!

Our Plastic Wolf

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic wolf miniature is made of durable plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose, its head back in the wildest of songs. This wolf replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 2 1/2 inches long. Check out our other dog toys and gifts.

About Wolves

The most common type of wolf is the gray wolf, although it has been hunted to extinction in western Europe, Mexico, and the majority of the U.S. Wolves in general live up to 18 years. Of these, the European wolf is the largest, weighing up to 85 pounds.

Wolves are very skilled predators, and they are typically the highest creature in the food chain in the area that they live in. The only animals that pose any sort of significant threat to wolves are tigers and humans. They hunt ungulates, which are hoofed animals, for food. Genetic tests done on a multitude of wolves have proven that while there are many different wolves that have evolved into many different domestic dogs, the gray wolf specifically is the type that has contributed most to pet stores worldwide.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Tapir Replica

Another FANTASTIC replica from our friends at Safari!

Plastic Asian (Malayan) Tapir

Our plastic museum-quality version of the Asian or Malayan tapir has the markings of a real tapir. The "saddle" which extends from its shoulder to its rump, the white rimmed ears, and the remaining black hair covering the legs, chest, and head mimic the pattern designed for camouflage. The plastic Asian tapir measures 4 1/4 inches in length, and 2 1/2 inches high. The realistic "floppy" snout, four-toed front and three-toed back feet (with a little hoof at the end of each toe) help make this the most realistic toy tapir we've ever seen. Other features include the white rims around each small hoof and the strongly chiseled indentation of the face muscles. Even the nostrils appear to flatten as they do in a real tapir. It even has short markings in the plastic indicating its fur coat. This delightful model will complete your diorama or please any tapir collector or collector of animal figurines. You may already be familiar with the quality produced by Safari, Ltd. This sturdy piece will also withstand handling and playtime. See our entire collection of tapirs.

About Asian (Malayan) Tapirs

Malayan tapirs (Tapirus indicus) grow to between 6 and 8 feet in length, stand 3 to 3.5 feet tall, and typically weigh between 550 and 700 pounds. Like the other types of tapir, they have small stubby tails and long, flexible proboscises. They have four toes on each front foot and three toes on each back foot. The Malayan Tapir has rather poor eyesight but excellent hearing and sense of smell. The easily identifiable markings (the saddle, white rimmed ears, black legs, chest, and head) make it more difficult to recognize it as a tapir, and other animals may mistake it for a large rock rather than a form of prey when it is lying down to sleep. Malayan Tapirs communicate with high-pitched squeaks and whistles. They usually prefer to live near water and often bathe and swim, and they are also able to climb steep slopes. Malayan Tapirs can live up to 30 years, both in the wild and in captivity. Malayan tapirs live in Southest Asia, where they have become extinct in some of their range; small populations still survive in Myanmar, Thailand, and Sumatra (Indonesia). In the past, scientists believed that tapirs live solitary lives, but in recent years, it has become clear that they can be found in small family groups. They do not live in herds, and are hard to located in the forest. Under ideal conditions, a tapir gives birth about every 18 months to two years, bearing only one calf at a time. The slow "recruitment rate" is one of the several reasons they are on their way to extinction. Read more about Malayan tapirs here.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plush Tiger Cub

An adorable and unique plush replica for your collection!

Our Plush Tiger Cub

We think this plush stuffed tiger cub is exceptional. It is so lifelike and compelling, you almost won't believe its a stuffed toy and not the real thing. Although its made of synthetic materials, it looks real. Note the tufts of fur at the ears, the beautiful piercing gaze, and the delicate curly whiskers made of fine, clear filament. Each piece is hand-cut and stitched. The height (12 1/4 inches) is measured to the top of the head. Read more about Hansa stuffed animals and see our interesting selection, and come look through our entire collection of 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.

Plastic Black Bear

Did you know not all black bears are black???

Our Plastic Black Bear

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic black bear miniature is made of hard plastic. This bear miniature has elaborately detailed fur and a natural, relaxed pose. Our black bear toy is 2 1/2 inches long from nose to the back foot. This black bear makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. Our plastic black bear is excellent for science projects as well. Check out our other bear toys and gifts.

About Black Bears

The American Black Bear (Ursus americanus) is North America's smallest bear. They are a commonly found in the forest but will come out into inhabited areas to forage for food. American black bears can be distinguished from brown bears by their smaller size, their more concave profiles, their shorter claws and the lack of a shoulder hump. Adult males typically weigh between 125 and 550 lb, while females weigh less at 90–275 lb. Although called black bears, this animal can come in a number of colors such as light brown, cinnamon, dark brown, chocolate and jet black. Black bears are very territorial and mark trees with their scent. They are able climbers and excellent swimmers. They are omnivores and feed on plants, berries, and bugs, which they dig with their paws and nose.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Blue-Green Algae

Who would've thought slime was so CUTE?!?

Our Blue-Green Algae

This strange-looking stuffed blue-green algae is an unusual replica. It is 7 1/2 inches long, is made of green and tan synthetic fur, has large eyes, and wears a sympathetic expression. If you aren't an algae lover, you will be after you own these adorable little fellas. I am not sure you'll want to put it in your tub though! This plush blue-green algae 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. Or maybe you have a biologist friend or teacher who needs an unusual gift! Check out our other aquatic plant toys and gifts.

About Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae is a parasitic cyanobacteria, also known as anabaena. It appears as a blue-green scum on water but can also be found on moist ground. It is a significant component of the nitrogen cycle and obtains its energy through photosynthesis. Blue-green algae can be alone or form huge colonies. The association of toxicity with such blooms has frequently led to the closure of recreational waters when blooms are observed.

The tag on our Algae says:

FACTS: Much of the muck you see in slimy green water is composed of blue-green algae! (Blue-green algae is the common name for cyanobacteria.)

Cyanobacteria are found worldwide and in many different habitats. They grow in fish tanks and swimming pools, as well as innumerable marine and freshwater environments. They are also found in soil, houseplants, and as symbiotes in animals and plant-life. They can be solitary or colonial and can form large mats and filaments visible to the human eye.

Cyanobacteria are not related to any of the other algal groups; they are actually bacteria that photosynthesize.

Anabaena is a type of blue-green algae that likes to form filamentous colonies of green slime. They smell bad, taste worse, and can cause nausea if ingested. (Prolonged exposure can also cause skin irritation.)

Blue-green algae like light and warm stagnant water, so improving water circulation helps to control their numbers. Live plants can also reduce algae populations by providing shade and competition for nutrients. Certain animals, such as tadpoles and algae-eating fish, can disrupt algal communities. And where ecological sensitivity is not required (e.g., in swimming pools) chlorine and algicides provide definitive and categorical results.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Tiger Action Figure

Whether as Shere Khan or Tigger, let your imagination roam with this wonderful toy!

Our Plastic Tiger Action Figure

Made of light-weight hollow plastic, this tiger action figure has movable head, legs and tail (the head moves forward and back). It measures 3 1/2 inches in length, not including the tail. Although it is sturdy, the pieces could possibly come loose so this toy is NOT recommended for very small children. It makes a nice addition to your big cat collection, is great for school projects, dioramas, as a toy for older kids or grown-ups, party favors, etc. To see our entire collection of action figures, check out our animal action figures page. Come look through our entire collection of 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.

"Living in Harmony" T-Shirts

Welcome the warm weather with this stylish shirt!

Our Living In Harmony T-Shirts & Sweatshirts

Take tapirs wherever you go! Designed by Sheryl Todd at the Tapir Preservation Fund, both shirts are a 50%-cotton, 50%-polyester blend that withstands hot-water washing. They won't shrink at all in width, and only about an inch in length. Both are standard white no-pocket shirts. The design is printed in a sort of burnt orange, the slogan and web address are printed in purple. The shirt is white and the ink colors are the same as on our tote bag of the same design. The sweatshirt has long sleeves and is not pictured. Check out our terrific selection of shirts.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Beaded Cat Keychains from Guatemala

The PURRR-fect gift for the pet-lover!

Our Beaded Cat Keychains

The beading on these cat 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 cats are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. Check out our other house cat 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.

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 Zebra Action Figure

So...is it WHITE with BLACK stripes, or the other way around?

Our Plastic Zebra Action Figure

Made of light-weight hollow plastic, this zebra action figure has movable legs and head (the head moves forward and back). It measures 3 inches in length, not including the tail. Although it is sturdy, the pieces could possibly come loose so this toy is NOT recommended for very small children. It makes a nice addition to your equine collection, is great for school projects, dioramas, as a toy for older kids or grown-ups, party favors, etc. To see our entire collection of action figures, check out our Animal Action Figures page.

About Zebras

The three species of these striped mammals are found only in Africa. The Grevy's zebra (Equus grevyi), which is found in Northern Kenya, and the mountain zebra (Equus zebra), which inhabits the mountains of Southern and Southwestern Africa, are endangered. Although the Plains zebra (Equus quagga) is not endangered, the population of this East Africa native is declining. Zebras are smaller in size than horses and greatly resemble the wild ass in habitat - woodlands to open plains - and form - a short, erect mane, large ears, and a tufted tail. The stripes, which distinguish this animal from other members of the horse family, serve as protective coloration in its natural habitat. Like the giraffe, each zebra's markings are as unique as a person's finger prints. The chief enemies of the zebra are lions and hunters who kill zebras for their meat and hide.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Alligator

This guy's ancestors hunted DINOSAUR!!!

Our Plastic Alligator

This solid plastic alligator is five inches long from snout to tail. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift.

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.

Plastic Flying Mallard Duck

Studying aquatic birds? Here's and addition to your final project!

Our Plastic Flying Mallard Duck

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.

Plastic Salmon

Another popular fish is back with us!

Our Plastic Sockeye Salmon

This sockeye salmon plastic animal will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Check out our many other plastic animals online. Be sure to look over our other plastic fish toys.

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.

Plastic Piranha

At long last, we've got these popular little fish back at TPF!

Our Plastic Piranha

This piranha is one of our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals - or in this case, plastic fish. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Check out our terrific selection of plastic fish toys.

About Piranha

Piranhas (Serrasalmus) are a freshwater fish native to South American. Although they have been labeled as meat-eaters, they also eat plant matter, seeds and fruit. They are about 8-12 inches long and have a narrow body with a blunt head. Their strong jaws contain razor sharp, triangular-shaped teeth.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Lion Action Figure

Live out the further adventures of Simba and friends with this great toy!

Our Plastic Lion Action Figure

Made of light-weight hollow plastic, this lion action figure has movable head, legs and tail (the head moves forward and back). It measures 3 inches in length, not including the tail. Although it is sturdy, the pieces could possibly come loose so this toy is NOT recommended for very small children. It makes a nice addition to your big cat collection, is great for school projects, dioramas, as a toy for older kids or grown-ups, party favors, etc. To see our entire collection of action figures, check out our Animal Action Figures page. Come look through our entire collection 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 Galapagos Island Fur Seal

A truely unique addition to your school project!

Our Plastic Galapagos Fur Seal

Our plastic Galapagos fur seal is realistic enough for your animal collection, school projects including Galapagos Island dioramas, or to be used as a toy, addition to your miniature zoo, and much more. Add them to an aquatic themed birthday cake! This little plastic seal measures almost 2 1/4 inches diagonally from his tail to its nose. The words "FUR SEAL" are moulded into the bottom. Please check out our other seal toys and gifts.

About Galapagos Fur Seals

The Galapagos fur seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis) is named for the shape of its head, which is said to resemble that of a bear ("arctos" means "bear," and "cephalus" means "head"). They live only in the Galapagos Islands and feed on fish, squid, and octopus. Sea lions also live in the Galapagos, but the seals and sea lions don't apparently share territories or compete for food. The seals live on and around rocks with caves in them along the islands' rugged coasts. The pups nurse longer than other fur seal species, and stay with their mothers for up to three years. The species is considered Vulnerable by the IUCN. Hunting in the 19th Century depleted the numbers of these fur seals, and more recently, depletions of their food fish have affected their numbers.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Orangutan Action Figure

"You-hoo-hoo!                                                            
I wanna be like you-hoo-hoo!                
                                         I wanna walk like you...talk like you...too-hoo-hoo!
You see it's troo-hoo-hoo!                                       
An ape like me-hee-hee                         
                                 Can learn to be hoo-oo-oo-man too-hoo-hoo!"
King Louie, Disney's The Jungle Book

Our Plastic Orangutan Action Figure

Our plastic orangutan stands 3 1/8 inches tall in the position you see in the photo. It can balance on two feet with arms in the air, can be placed to appear to swing from a branch (brachiating), or it can appear to walk on all four feet or climb a tree. Made of light-weight hollow plastic, this orangutan has movable arms, legs, and head (the head moves forward and back). It makes a nice addition to your primate collection, is nice for birthday parties and favors, school projects, can be given as a gift or used as a toy. Make sure to check out our other orangutan toys and gifts.

About Orangutans

The orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) are now found only in northern Sumatra and Borneo. In the Malay languge, orangutan means "Man of the forest. Right now, the biggest problem for orangutans in the wild is loss of forest habitat. The species is now fully protected by law throughout its range, but enforcement is difficult in remote areas

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Seahorse

Another fantastic sealife replica from TPF's vast collection!

Our Plastic Seahorse

This seahorse is made of tough, flexible plastic. Use for sea-life dioramas, school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Check out our other seahorse toys and gifts.

About Yellow Seahorses

The yellow seahorse (Hippocampus kuda ) is one of the most common seahorses and is also known as the Common Seahorse, Spotted Seahorse, or Oceanic Seahorse. It is found mainly in the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. It has a short crown, which is directed backwards. It is found in shallow water of not much more than 30 feet. They can be found in mangroves, coastal seagrass beds, estuaries, coastal bays and lagoons, harbors, sandy sediments in rocky littoral zones, and rivers with brackish waters. Seahorses pair for life. They are poor swimmers and generally remain anchored to rocks using their prehensile tails.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Jaguar Action Figure

Use this toy and your imagination to explore the mysteries of the Amazon!

Our Plastic Jaguar Action Figure

Made of light-weight hollow plastic, this jaguar action figure has movable head, legs and tail (the head moves forward and back). The length given here of 3 1/4 inches does not include the tail. Although it is sturdy, the pieces could possibly come loose so this toy is NOT recommended for very small children. It makes a nice addition to your big cat collection, is great for school projects, dioramas, as a toy for older kids or grown-ups, party favors, etc. To see our entire collection of action figures, check out our Animal Action Figures page. Be sure to look over our other jaguar toys and gifts.

About Jaguars

The jaguar (Panthera onca) lives in the rainforests of Mexico, Central and South America. An important totem animal for the Maya and Aztecs, the jaguar has captivated the human imagination right up to the present day. Beautiful and powerful, the jaguar has a remarkably majestic bearing whether lying in wait on a branch, prowling through the rainforest, drinking at a river, or, letting someone know they've come too close!

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Black Stingray

This fabulous replica will add a touch of realism to any aquatic diorama!

Our Plastic Stingray

Plasic Stingray: This stingray is made of tough, flexible plastic. The size is measured from nose to tail. Use for sea-life dioramas, school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Be sure to look over our other ray toys and gifts.

About Stingrays

The stingray is in the (Dasyatidae) family which include cartilaginous marine fish like skates and sharks. The stingray swims with a flying motion using its strong pectoral wings for propulsion. Most of the time it lies on the bottom covered with sand and feeds on small crustaceans using an acute sense of smell and electro-receptors. It is a docile creature but derives its ominous name from a razor-sharp barb which protrudes from its spine. The sting causes miserable pain and can be fatal if left untreated. Since stingrays are often found in shallow water, they can be easily stepped on by divers, swimmers and snorkelers. The barb usually breaks off but will regenerate in the animal. There are many different species of stingrays varying in size from palm-sized to a body of six feet in diameter. There are also some freshwater varieties found in South America.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Toucan Action Figure

Create your own magical world with this wonderful toy!

Our Plastic Toucan Action Figure

This toucan is made of hard plastic and has movable parts that can possibly come apart and may or may not snap back together. The joints are meant to move the animal into different positions rather than to snap apart. Because snapping them apart results in small loose pieces, this toy is NOT recommended for very small children. It is great for school projects, dioramas, as a toy for older kids or grown-ups, party favors, collectibles, etc. It measures 3 1/2 inches from beak to tail. The movable parts are the beak, neck, wings, and legs. To see our entire collection of action figures, check out our Animal Action Figures page.

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 bird’s 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.

Stuffed Green Anole Lizard

Another unique and wonderful creation from Fiesta!

Our Stuffed Green Anole

Our cuddly stuffed green anole lizard toy by Fiesta measures 19 1/2 inches from nose to tail. This sleek, soft reptile has beans in its belly. The eyes, dewlap, legs and tail are securely attached making this charming stuffed animal a suitable toy for all ages. To find our other stuffed toy animals from Fiesta, or see our entire inventory of stuffed animals, stuffed beanies and plush hand puppets, check out our Stuffed Animal Page and Stuffed Beanies and Plush Puppets Page. Check out our terrific selection of lizard toys and gifts.

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.

Brown Plastic Octopus

Let's hear it for the OCTOPUS! Give him a hand...and a hand...and a hand...

Our Plastic Octopus

This octopus is purple-brown in color and has a bright yellow underside with bumps that represent its suction feet. It is made of tough, flexible plastic. Use for sea-life dioramas, school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Be sure to look over our other octopus 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 Dragonfly Keychains from Guatemala

A beautiful and PORTABLE work of art!

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.

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.

Can you believe you can buy your pet hermit crab a designer SHELL?

Our Plastic Hermit Crab

This plastic hermit crab 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. Not shown is the underside of the crab, which is bright blue and white. Come see our wonderful assortment of 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.

Plush Guinea Pig

The perfect, lovable little companion!

Our Guinea Pig

This adorable little stuffed guinea pig is both realistic and extremly soft. Our guinea pig is 8 inches long and has been well crafted by Hansa. It has black and white fluffy 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.

Plastic Mud Crab

Why did they use teenage 'turtles' when this guy naturally looks so ninja?

Our Mud Crab

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic mud crab has a solid body, but flexible legs. It is 2 1/2 inches across with good detail. This crab makes a nice pet, a gift or is useful for a diorama. Check out our other crab toys and gifts.

About Mud Crabs

The most common mud crab (Scylla serrata) is generally a mangrove crab but can also refer to several similar crabs found in mud throughout the world. Some mud crabs are large crabs with a smooth, broad carapace. They have 9 even sized teeth on each side of their eyes. Their two hind legs are flattened for swimming. In the most common form, the color varies from very dark brown/black to mottled green. Mud crabs inhabit sheltered estuaries, the tidal reaches of some rivers, mud flats and mangrove forests. These crabs are found scuttling along a soft, muddy bottom, often below low tide level. Some are harvested commercially especially in Australia but, for the most part, they make excellent bait for larger agressive fish.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Sifaka Lemur

A cuddly and unique addition to anyone's toy collection!

Our Plush Sifaka Lemur

Our exceptionally soft, cuddly stuffed sifaka lemur toy animal by Fiesta measures 9 1/2 inches long. The eyes, ears, legs and tail are securely attached making this charming stuffed animal a suitable toy for all ages. To find our other stuffed toy animals from Fiesta, 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. Come look through our entire collection of lemur toys and gifts.

About Lemurs

Lemurs (Lemuridae) are "prosimians." They are primates, but are not as highly evolved as monkeys or great apes. One easily recognizable feature that differs between the lemurs and other primates is the long, almost dog-like nose of the lemurs. Whereas the other primates rely more heavily on vision and hearing, lemurs rely more on their sense of smell. There are 11 species of true lemurs and 7 species of dwarf lemurs. Lemurs are found only in the woodlands on the island of Madagascar, and the Comoro Islands near Madagascar. The lemur is known for its long tail, which it holds up like a question mark when it walks or runs upon the ground. The markings on our stuffed lemur most closely match the Verreaux's Sifaka Lemur (Propithecus verreauxi).

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Orange Sea Star

A regular at every tide pool!

Our Plastic Orange Sea Star

Our Orange Sea Star will add a colorful splash to your sea-life diorama or school project. You'll find it useful for undersea dioramas, school projects, toys, novelties, animal collections, party favors and more. Our plastic sea star is for decoration or play only. It does not float, and should NOT be put in your aquarium. However, you can make an awesome 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 :)

This attractive sea star is made of tough, flexible plastic, measuring about 2 inches between the farthest points. The top is bright orange, and the underside is dark gray. Check out our terrific selection of sea star toys and gifts.

About Sea Stars

Starfish are not really fish. They are spiny invertebrates called echinoderms. To avoid confusion, biologist prefer to call them "sea stars." Other echinoderms are sea urchins, sand dollars and sea cucumbers.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Viceroy Butterfly

Another beautiful replica equally useful as a toy and learning tool!

Our Plastic Viceroy Butterfly

This large and detailed plastic viceroy butterfly is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica is robust and durable, ready for hours of play! While it does not float, this butterfly replica makes for a great toy, gift, or centerpiece for a school project. It is 4 3/4 inches long with a realistic textured surface. An impressive figurine in size and detail! Check out our other butterfly and insect toys and gifts.

About Viceroy Butterflies

The viceroy butterfly (Limenitis archippus) is a butterfly common to the eastern edges of the North American Cascade mountain range. Thoughout its habitat, the viceroy mimics tha monarch butterfly through common orange and black wing patterns. Both species are distasteful to potential predators, which come to avoid the similar wing-patterns of both species. This phenomenon is called Mullerian mimicry.

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.

Plastic Wolf

Who's afraid of the Big Bad Wolf? Well...um...

Our Plastic Wolf

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic wolf miniature is made of durable plastic with good quality. This replica has detailed fur and an attractive realistic pose, its head down while it stalks its prey. This wolf replica makes for a nice pet, fits into a shoebox diorama, or serves as a great collectible. It is 3 3/4 inches long. Check out our other dog toys and gifts.

About Wolves

The most common type of wolf is the gray wolf, although it has been hunted to extinction in western Europe, Mexico, and the majority of the U.S. Wolves in general live up to 18 years. Of these, the European wolf is the largest, weighing up to 85 pounds.

Wolves are very skilled predators, and they are typically the highest creature in the food chain in the area that they live in. The only animals that pose any sort of significant threat to wolves are tigers and humans. They hunt ungulates, which are hoofed animals, for food. Genetic tests done on a multitude of wolves have proven that while there are many different wolves that have evolved into many different domestic dogs, the gray wolf specifically is the type that has contributed most to pet stores worldwide.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Praying Mantis

A fantastic replica for your school project or your toy box!

Our Plastic Praying Mantis

This large and detailed plastic praying mantis is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica is robust and durable, ready for hours of play! While it does not float, this praying mantis replica makes for a great toy, gift, or centerpiece for a school project. It is 6 1/2 inches long with a realistic textured surface. An impressive figurine in size and detail! Check out our other miscellaneous bugs and insect toys and gifts.

About Praying Mantises

The praying mantis is a general term describing any of 2300 species of mantises in the order Mantodea. The word mantis comes from the Greek meaning "prophet." The insect derives its name because it looks like it is kneeling in prayer. The word "praying" is often confused for the word "preying". In this regard, the praying mantis is a voracious and skillful predator. It seizes, with amazing swiftness, other small insects. Prey are held firmly in spiked forelegs. The praying mantis can elongate its thorax and leave the rest of its body almost stationary to provide amazing flexibility of movement. It has excellent vision as well, and can turn its head almost 300 degrees. Best of all, the praying mantis is a master of camouflage. It looks like the plant in which it is hiding. This aids in its ability to ambush and also protects itself from its own predators. It is generally a diurnal insect, since it relies heavily on vision, but it sometimes move to a new territory at night.

 

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Toy Fire Ant

He won't bite...honest...

Our Plush Fire 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 Humpback Whale Toy

A fantastic toy and figurine!

Our Plastic Humpback Whale

Our humpback whale measures approximately 6 inches in length. It is bluish gray in color with white markings, and is slightly squeezable. This whale would make a wonderful pal for the bath, as it floats and is sure to bring hours of bath time fun. It would also be great to use in school projects and would be a unique addition as a party favor for those summer birthdays! Come see our wonderful assortment of humpback whale toys and gifts.

About Humpback Whales

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale. One of the larger rorqual species, adults range in length from 39-52 feet and tip the scales at approximately 79,000 pounds. Take a look at this image to see the comparison of the whale's size to that of a human. The humpback whale has a unique body shape, with long pectoral fins and a knobbly head. It is also an acrobatic animal, often breaching and slapping the water.

Humpback whales typically migrate up to 16,000 miles each year, and are found in oceans and seas around the world. Humpbacks feed only in the summer, and migrate to tropical or sub-tropical waters to breed and give birth in the winter. During these winter months, the whales fast and live off their fat reserves. During the rest of the year, their menu consists mostly of krill and small fish.

There are at least 80,000 humpback whales worldwide. Once hunted to the brink of extinction, humpbacks are now sought by whale-watchers, typically in parts of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South America, and the United States.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Rhinoceros Beetle

From a VENDING MACHINE!?! Really!?!

Our Plastic Rhinoceros Beetle

This large and detailed plastic rhinoceros beetle is made of somewhat flexible plastic with good quality. This replica is robust and durable, ready for hours of play! While it does not float, this beetle replica makes for a great toy, gift, or centerpiece for a school project. It is 4 3/4 inches long with a realistic textured surface. An impressive figurine in size and detail! Check out our other beetle and insect toys and gifts.

About Japanese Rhinoceros Beetles

The Japanese rhinoceros beetle (Allomyrina dichotoma) is a common insect, and integral part of popular culture, in Japan, China, Taiwan, and Korea. The Japanese name for the species is kabutomushi, which means literally "helmet-bug".

This beetle appears as the center of many television, cinematic, anime, and advertising works in Japan, in much the same way that tigers and geckos do in the United States. Rhino beetles are also popular in games of chance, which usually pit two male beetles in a contest of strength. They are also popular pets, and are even sold from vending machines. Japanese rhino beetles live only four months as a beetle.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Sheep (Ram) Replica

'Ram'...both his name AND what he's gonna do if you threaten his flock!

Our Plastic Toy (Ram) Sheep

Our plastic (Ram) Sheep is made of hard solid plastic and is 1 7/8 inches long. It has detailed fur and hooves. Our plastic animals come tested and approved from the manufacturers and are safe. This toy sheep replica fits nicely into a shoe box diorama, a manger scene, or a farm animal collection. Check out our other sheep toys and gifts.

About Sheep

Domestic sheep (Ovis aries) is a chewing herd animal kept all over the world as livestock. There are over 1 billion sheep mostly in Australia, New Zealand and the British Isles, but herds abound in South America as well. Sheep are used for milk production, meat, and wool. A group of sheep is called a herd or flock, the female is called a ewe, a male is called a ram or tup, a castrated male , a wether ,and the young are lambs. Sheep have played a large role as mythological figures and were commonly used as the animal of choice in sacrifices.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Amazing Collectible Alligator From Guatemala

Now THIS is an impressive figurine!

Check Out This Display Of Amazing Artistic Talent!!!

This hand-beaded alligator is nothing less than extraordinary! Absolutely one-of-a-kind, this amazing creation from the artists of Guatemala is over two feet long and LOADED with details!

This spectacular collectible figurine was created with the help of our good friend Catherine Todd and the skillful artistry of local Guatemalan craftsmen. Similar pieces have been sold at the New York Museum of Natural History for over $1,000! This figurine has a solid plastic core covered in HUNDREDS of plastic and stone beads, each arranged and placed BY HAND to form the wonderful patterns and features of this truely wonderful, one-of-a-kind creation.

Check out our other reptiles 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 Wild Boar

"No...that's a wild pig. THAT'S a wild bore."
Robin Hood about Prince John
Robin Hood: Men In Tights

Our Plastic Wild Boar

This beautifully detailed wild boar is 5 1/2 inches from the tip of its nose to the end of its tail. The body has a fur-like pattern and details that almost make it seem real. It is made of sturdy plastic and is very durable. Previously, this boar was misidentified as a warthog. Our thanks to Winged Wolf for helping us correctly identify this toy animal. Be sure to look over our other pig family toys and gifts.

Our plastic animals of a similar size and detail include giraffe, cheetah, lion, hippo and elephant.

About Wild Boars

Wild boar (Sus scrofa) is part of the biological family Suidae, which includes many subspecies including the domestic pig. While wild boar are native in Northern and Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and much of Asia, wild boar have been introduced to the Americas and Australia as hunting stock. Individual animals range in size from 110 - 660 pounds depending on their environment. Adult male boars grow tusks that serve as both weapons and tools. The tusks grow continuously throughout the boar's life and remain sharp, with the upper and lower tusks grinding together.

The primary predators of adult wild boar are tigers and wolves where they coexist. Tigers have been known to chase wild boar longer and over greater distance than other prey, and a single wolf pack can consume as many as 50-80 wild boar annually in the former Soviet Union. However, this is hardly a one-sided contest. Adult male wild boars have on many occasions been recorded goring tigers to death, and are more than a match for any wolf one-on-one.

The wild boar holds a place of distinction in human culture and mythology. Boars were revered by the Celts, Norse, Romans, and Gauls. They feature prominantly in the Hindu faith, are one of the twelve signs of the Chinese Zodiac, and have appeared many times in ancient and modern heraldry.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.