Andrewsarchus Plastic Toy

That's right...this bad boy had HOOVES!!

Our Plastic Andrewsarchus

Our small plastic Andrewsarchus toy is just the right size replica for your prehistoric life shoebox diorama. This little Andrewsarchus model will fit in a shoe box along with other examples of extinct animals from the Earth's past. Add a few rocks, plants, grass, make a river or stream from anything that strikes your imagination, and there you go - a scene of life on our planet as it might have been millions of years ago. Our plastic toy Eocene mammal is painted to look the way paleontologists imagine the animal looked in real life, although of course nobody really knows. That's part of the fun and mystery – you can imagine Andrewsarchus any way you like! It is made of solid plastic and is quite durable. The name "Andrewsarchus" is molded onto the bottom of the animal. Be sure to take a look at our other prehistoric figurines.

About Andrewsarchus

To date the only fossil remains found of this amazing Eocene (55-37 MYA) hoofed predator are a skull and a few bone pieces. They were found in Mongolia in 1924 during an expedition led by paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews, for whom the creature is named. After extensive study of the skull, it was concluded that this creature was a member of the only known group of carnivorus hoofed mammals called Mesonychids, which looked somewhat like wolves with hoofed toes. Mesonyx obtusidens, a small North American relative, was the model for current depictions of this predator. From the size of the skull (3 feet long), it was determined that Andrewsarchus was approximately 6 foot tall at the shoulder and 13-18 feet long (over twice the size of today's brown bear), making it the largest carnivous mammal in the world. There is a commentary on Andrewsarchus on the Laelaps blog. For additional information, check out the Andrewsarchus page and the "What are Mesonychids?" page.

 This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Aspen Tree

Avoid these while skiing!

Our Plastic Aspen

Our plastic aspen tree will add a bit of green to your diorama or school project. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic aspen tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Aspen" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Aspen Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

Aspen is the common name given to a species of medium-sized deciduous tree from the far northern hemisphere. Aspens prefer colder climates, and extend south only along mountain ranges where the annual temperature remains cool. Aspens can reach almost 100 feet tall, and typically live 40 - 150 years.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Blue Beetle

With so many different species, there's a beetle to go with any outfit!

Our Large Plastic Blue Beetle

This large and detailed plastic blue 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 5 1/4 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 Beetles

The name Beetle refers to any of the 400,000 known species of insect belonging to the order Coleoptera (taken from the Greek words for "sheathed wing"). Virtually all beetles have two sets of wings, front and back. The rear set of wings are commonly used to fly, while the forward set is thick and hard, forming a protective shell or "sheath" over the flying wings and the rear of the beetle's body. Beetles represent nearly 40% of all insect species in the world, and new species are being discovered all the time. In fact, the order Coleoptera includes more species than any other order, and represents nearly a quarter of all life-forms on the planet. Scientists believe the total number of beetle species, discovered and undiscovered, to be between 1 and 100 million species. Beetles are widely diverse in size, weight, and coloration, and exist in every habitat on Earth except marine and polar.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Topiary Tree

Who says you can't teach an old tree new tricks?

Our Plastic Topiary Tree

Our plastic topiary tree will add a bit of green faux foliage to your diorama or school project. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic topiary tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Topiary" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Topiary Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

Topiary is the practice of training plants to grow into specific shapes and patterns. This practice is common in many commercial horticultural industries, including landscaping and Christmas tree farms. The practice involves lightly clipping a plant's foliage in such a way that the natural growth of the plant allows it to assume specific artificial shapes, such as the perfect cones of Christmas trees.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Donkey Plastic Replica

You've heard of Jackass: The Movie...now see Jackass: The Replica!

Our Plastic Donkey

Our plastic toy donkey looks a little surprised! It adds character to this little figuine, and could help him look more animated in a diorama or in a toy farm setting. Our plastic donkey is 2 1/2 inches long when measured from its nose to the end of its tail. It stands up nicely to a height of 1 7/8 inches to the tips of its ears, and about 1 3/8 inches from the ground to its rump. This donkey would be perfectly happy to be used in a farm diorama, as a toy, a collectible animal, in a Christmas manger scene, or as a pack animal. In that case, you can use your own imagination to create the pack and supplies. Our plastic donkey has met all of the new U.S. child safety standards for children's toys in both the plastic and paint categories. Check out our other donkey toys and gifts.

About Donkeys

The donkey (Equus africanus asinus) is a domesticated member of the Equidae or horse family, and an odd-toed ungulate. Originally donkeys derived from their wild cousins in Africa. In the western United States, a small donkey is sometimes called by its Spanish name: "burro." While different species of the Equidae family can interbreed, offspring are almost always sterile. Nonetheless, horse/donkey hybrids are popular for their durability and vigor. A mule is the offspring of a jack (male donkey) and a mare (female horse). The much rarer successful mating of a male horse and a female donkey produces a hinny. The domesticated donkey was first seen about 3,000 BC, approximately the same time as the horse, and they have spread around the world. Donkeys have been used for centuries as beasts of burden to carry people as well as supplies, as well as companion animals. Donkeys are rugged and sure-footed in difficult terrain and on narrow trails, which has added to humans' dependence on these animals. Think of the miner and his donkey, or the people of Asia traveling long distances. Donkeys were commonly used in Europe in Medieval times. They continue to fill important roles in many places today and domesticated species are increasing in numbers. However, some of their wild relatives such as the onager, are endangered.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Monkey Puzzle Tree

Another replica of a living fossil from Tapir & Friends!

Our Plastic Monkey Puzzle Tree

Our plastic monkey puzzle tree will add a bit of interesting faux foliage to your diorama or school project. The tree is very dark green, almost black. The branches at the bottom grow downwards, almost like a short skirt around the tree. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic monkey puzzle tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Monkey Puzzle" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Monkey Puzzle Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

Growing to 130 feet tall, the monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana) is native to Chile and Argentina. An evergreen tree capable of living to extraordinary age, this tree is sometimes described as a "living fossil". the monkey puzzle tree can have a trunk up to 7 feet in diameter...that 14 feet across!

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

New Plastic Timber Wolf

Today we received a new plastic timberwolf along with the rest our order from CollectA. I love their lifelike animal figures, and hope to get them all someday. Meanwhile, I kinda splurged on this wolf. We're still trying to get Christmas bills paid, but I thought we needed another wolf howling. We had this small plastic howling wolf already, and we had this slinking, stalking, larger wolf who I think looks like he could illustrate the bad wolf in a fairy tale. I thought a larger realistic howling wolf would be just the thing for us. What do you think?

My favorite thing about our new wolf figurine? I love how realistic his muzzle and white teeth look . . . and feel!

We sell animal-themed gifts to raise funds for TAPIR conservation.
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE!

Large Plastic Red Beetle

Sometimes, what you need is just a BIG BRIGHT BUG!!

Our Plastic Red Beetle

This large and detailed plastic red 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 5 1/4 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 Beetles

The name Beetle refers to any of the 400,000 known species of insect belonging to the order Coleoptera (taken from the Greek words for "sheathed wing"). Virtually all beetles have two sets of wings, front and back. The rear set of wings are commonly used to fly, while the forward set is thick and hard, forming a protective shell or "sheath" over the flying wings and the rear of the beetle's body. Beetles represent nearly 40% of all insect species in the world, and new species are being discovered all the time. In fact, the order Coleoptera includes more species than any other order, and represents nearly a quarter of all life-forms on the planet. Scientists believe the total number of beetle species, discovered and undiscovered, to be between 1 and 100 million species. Beetles are widely diverse in size, weight, and coloration, and exist in every habitat on Earth except marine and polar.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Yellow Maple Tree

Almost as pretty as the real thing!

Our Plastic Yellow Maple

Our plastic yellow maple tree will add a bit of brilliant yellow foliage to your diorama or school project. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic yellow maple tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Yellow Maple" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Maple Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

Maple is the common name given to members of the Acer genus of trees. There are approximately 128 species, most of which are native to Asia. There is only one species, Acer laurinum, native to the Southern Hemisphere. 54 species of maple are considered under threat of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Viceroy Butterfly

A unique and detailed replica!

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 Sequoia Tree

One of Earth's mightiest lifeforms!

Our Plastic Sequoia Tree

Our plastic Sequoia tree will add a bit of foliage to your diorama or school project. The tree is very dark green, although it looks almost black in the photo. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic sequoia tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Sequoia" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Sequoia Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

A genus of redwood coniferous trees, Sequoia includes the largest trees in the world. There is only one species of sequoia alive today, the Sequoia sempervirens. Also called California redwood and giant redwood, this species is located in Northern California and Southern Oregon. Many of this species are estimated to be almost 2000 years old, and can have trunks almost 30 feet across. Since the 1850's, nearly 95% of the orginal old-growth sequoia has been cut down by commercial logging.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Rhinoceros Beetle

Really? Sold from VENDING MACHINES!?!

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 Petticoat Palm Tree

A unique and lovely addition to any diorama!

Our Plastic Petticoat Palm

Our plastic petticoat palm tree will add a bit of green and interest to your diorama or school project. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic petticoat palm tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Petticoat Palm" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Palm Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

Palms are represented by the botanical family of Arecaceae, with about 2600 species known. Palms prefer warm temperatures, and are restricted to warm-temperate to tropical regions of the globe. They do, however, inhabit every habitat within that region, from desert to rainforest. Most palms are recognizable by their charactaristic cluster of broad leaves atop an unbranching trunk.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Carpenter Ant

Perfect for your science project or tabletop wargame!

Our Plastic Ant

This large and detailed plastic carpenter ant 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 ant replica makes for a great toy, gift, or centerpiece for a school project. It is 5 inches long with a realistic textured surface. An impressive figurine in size and detail! Check out our other ant and insect toys and gifts.

About Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are of the genus Camponotus and are known as carpenter ants because they live in colonies in galleries they excavate in wood. Carpenter ants do not eat the wood they remove during their nest-building activities, but deposit it outside entrances to the colony in small piles. The wood is used solely as a nesting site. The galleries of carpenter ants are kept smooth and clean and make easily used runways. Carpenter ants are active indoors during many months of the year, usually during the spring and summer. When ants are active in the house during late winter/early spring, the nest is probably within the house. When carpenter ants are first seen in the spring and summer (May/June), then the nest is likely outdoors and the ants are simply coming in for food. The natural food of the ants consists of honeydew from aphids, other insects, and plant juices, but they will readily forage for water and food scraps within the house.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Elm Tree

A common tree lining city streets!

Our Plastic Elm Tree

Our plastic elm tree will add a bit of fake foliage to your diorama or school project. The tree is very dark green, although it looks almost black in the photo. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic elm tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Elm" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Elm Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

The 30 - 40 species of elm trees are found generally in temperate climates of North America and Eurasia. They are a deciduous and semi-deciduous trees, and are capable of reaching great height and age. Elms were very popular landscaping plants from the 18th - 20th centuries, particularly in cities where their natural resistance to polution and rapid growth rate made them ideal for urban environments.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Cockroach 3D Puzzle

Unlike the real thing, these ARE destructible!

Our Plastic 3D Cockroach Puzzle

The details on this 3-D puzzle animal toy add another dimension, so you could say it is 4-D (3-D + details)! It is certainly one of the more detailed we have seen, making it an interesting replica as well as a fun toy for adults and children above the age of 3. This delightful insect model comes assembled, and its body is 3 1/2 inches long. The pieces are cleverly fitted, flexible, and not too difficult to assemble. When complete, this highly-detailed insect stands nicely on its own for display on your shelf, TV, computer monitor, etc. Check out our other 3-D Puzzle Animals, as well as our other insect toys.

About Cockroaches

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

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Pine Tree

Come see our new line of miniature trees!

Our Plastic Pine Tree

Our plastic pine tree will add a bit of green to your diorama or school project. We have plenty of animals to go with the landscape you create. Do you make model railroad layouts? Our plastic trees could lend some variety. We have seen more realistic trees for model railroaders, so our trees may be best used in layouts for younger engineers, as they are sturdy enough for play. All materials in this plastic pine tree has passed the required testing, as these trees are sold as toys for kids 3 and older. The name "Pine" is stamped in small letters on the bottom of the tree's base. Therapists like to use our realistic models for sand trays. Check out our other tree, flower, and plant replicas, toys and gifts.

About Pine Trees

In the broadest definition from Wikipedia, "a tree is a plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting leaves or branches". Under this definition, palms, bamboo, and tree ferns are included as "trees". Some definitions attempt to narrow this to what most of us consider trees by naming specific height or use for lumber. However, when it comes right down to it, a 100-foot tree is still basically a plant, like any other bush, flower, or crop plant.

There are approximately 115 species of pine tree located throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Pines are evergreen resinous trees. The largest pine in the world is a 268-foot Ponderosa pine located in Oregon. The many species of pine are adapted to survive in a variety of environments and conditions, including cold mountainous regions, hot semi-desert regions, and extremely wet or dry conditions. Some species of pine actually need regualr forest fire to regenerate, and decline in areas where fire is regorously suppressed.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Barrel-eye Fish Miniature

You lookin' at ME??

Our Plastic Barrel-Eye Fish

Our unusual and colorful plastic barrel-eye fish is 5 1/2 inches long from its jaws to its tail. The body is constructed of dense, somewhat flexible plastic. The plastic glows in the dark, and the unpainted parts (the lower jaw and underbelly) will emit a pale green light in a dark room. The fish has a brown body, and an orange face, fins and tail. On the belly, in tiny letters, is written "lanternfish," but this fish lacks the shape or fin arrangement of any lanternfish I found in my research. Previously we had simply called our barrel-eye a "mystery fish" and asked for help in identifying it. A visitor to our website named William directed us to a barrel-eye and for this we a grateful to him. Please see all our other deepwater toys and gifts.

About Barrel-Eye Fish

The barrel-eye fish (Opisthoproctus soleatus) is an amazing deepwater fish which lives in the aphotic zone near the top where no light penetrates. It is equipped with large, highly developed, light-sensitive, barrel-shaped eyes which direct its vision upwards toward the faintest light in order to spot the shape of prey. It is about 10 inches long and has an elaborate fin structure, luminescent organs, and a transparent to translucent head. The light emanating from the barrel-eye tends to confuse predators, making it difficult for them to see it as a fish. Little is known about the number of barrel-eyes in existence and about its reproductive cycle.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Grasshopper

You don't need a "plague" of hoppers this size...about a dozen would do it!

Our Large Plastic Grasshopper

This large and detailed plastic grasshopper 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 grasshopper replica makes for a great toy, gift, or centerpiece for a school project. It is 7 inches long with a realistic textured surface. An impressive figurine in size and detail! Check out our other grasshopper and insect toys and gifts.

About Grasshoppers

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

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Crayfish Replica

Catching and releasing these is the highlight of my kids' summer!

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.

Plastic Gazelle

Useful and fun in both the diorama and toybox!

Our Plastic Gazelle

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

About Gazelles

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

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic American Bald Eagle

A fantastic replica of a noble raptor!

Our American Bald Eagle Replica

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

About American Bald Eagles

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

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Stag Beetle

Ferocious-lookin', ain't he?

Our Plastic Stag Beetle Replica

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic stag beetle is made of strong, durable plastic and is very good quality. This replica is about three times the size of a real stag beetle, so you can see every ridge and groove of its body! This stag beetle replica is a wonderful gift for your avid insect lover, a fabulous toy for your youngling, or simply as a conversation piece. It is 6 inches long, and hyper-realistic! Check out our other insect toys and gifts.

About Stag Beetles

The stag beetle is an extremely distinctive insect due to the male's large pinchers, and it is native to the UK. Stag beetles weigh only .02 ounces, but they are the largest land insect in the UK. Adult stag beetles have a lifespan of 4 months - they can only survive between the months of May and August.

Stag beetles, despite their beastly appearance, are in fact not usually aggressive towards humans. The male stag beetle has very large antler-like pinchers, which is where the species gets its name. These pinchers are not used for biting, however - they are used exclusively to fight other male stag beetles over territorial and mating disputes. The female stag beetle, on the other hand, has much more reasonably sized pinchers, and while they aren't as flashy, they are used for biting and can leave quite the nasty mark!

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Seahorse Keychains from Guatemala

Come see our HUGE stock of delightful, portable Guatemalan artwork!

Our Beaded Seahorse Keychains

The beading on these beautiful seahorse 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 seahorses are durable and with normal handling will hold up extremely well. Check out our other seahorses 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 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 Oceans. It has a short crown, which is directed backwards. This seahorse 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 Mud Crab

Another unique replica from Tapir & Friends!

Our Plastic Mud Crab

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic mud crab is both solid around the outside (yet slightly flexible) and hollow at the center with a squeeker inside. The legs are are about 7 1/2 inches wide and are both dark green and black. This crab floats. The body is about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. 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.

Plastic Galapagos Land Iguana

Ready to be added to your Galapagos Islands science exhibit!

Our Plastic Galapagos Land Iquana

This exotic land iguana is one in our series of lively and lifelike plastic animals found in the Galapagos Islands. Its realistic shape and details will be enjoyed as part of a school project, diorama, plastic animal collection, as a party favor, or gift. Our plastic Galapagos land iguana measures 4 inches from nose to tail. Be sure to see our other iguana toys and gifts.

About Land Iguanas

The land iguana is typically divided into two species, Conolophus subcristatus and Conolophus pallidus. It is brownish-red on its back and yellow-orange on its belly. It spends its day sunning itself and foraging for fruit and pieces of cactus. The Gallapagos land iguana can be quite agressive toward other iguanas and signals its displeasure by vigorous head-bobbing especially during mating time. There is some evidence that the marine iguana and the land iguana are able to cross-breed. The Galapagos land iguana is plentiful and not considered endangered like many species in the area.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Large Plastic Praying Mantis

We've got this fantastic replica back in stock!

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.

Plastic Proboscis Monkey

Meet the Cyrano de Bergerac of primates!

Our Plastic Proboscis Monkey

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

About Proboscis Monkeys

Proboscis monkeys or long-nosed monkeys are an endangered Old World monkey. It is found in Borneo in south-east Asia. It gets its name from its unusually long nose which can protrude up to 7 inches. They use their long nose to attract females which also have long noses, but not quite as long. It allso fills its nose up with blood and uses it to make a resonating sound to warn of predators. It is arboreal but also amphibious. It is a deft swimmer. It lives in mangrove swamps where it eats leaves and berries. As a troupe, the proboscis monkey walks in single file through the forest.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Horsefly

Another unique replica from Tapir & Friends!

Our Plastic Horsefly

This engaging, realistic-looking plastic horsefly is made of hard, flexible plastic. It is 2 inches long. Our plastic horsefly has clear plastic, detailed wings, red eyes and segmented legs. 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 fly toys and gifts.

About Horseflies

Also known as gadflies, breeze flies, bull dog flies, zimbs, and clegs, horse flies represent 4,500 species of fliying insect. Many are known to be extremely noisy in flight, and most are considered pests due to painful bites they can inflict. In many parts of the world, horse flies are important pollinators of flowers. Horse flies occur worldwide, being absent only in the far north and far south.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Plastic Neanderthal

He's from when "fast food" was HARDER to get!!!

Our Plastic Neanderthal Man

Our small plastic Neanderthal toy is just the right size replica for your prehistoric life shoebox diorama. This little caveman model will fit in a shoe box along with other examples of extinct life from the Earth's past. Add a cave woman, a few plastic animals, rocks, plants, grass, make a river or stream from anything that strikes your imagination, and there you go - a scene of life on our planet as it might have been thousands or hundreds of thousands of years ago. Our plastic toy cave people are made of solid plastic and are quite durable. Be sure to take a look at our other prehistoric figurines, including other Neanderthals.

About Neanderthals

Neanderthals were an alternate (and now extinct) evolution of human beings who lived in what is now Europe and central Asia from 600,000 years to as modern as 24,500 years ago. Neanderthals are scientifically classified as both a subspecies of human (Homo sapiens neanderthalensis) and as an entirely separate human species (Homo neanderthalensis). This unique dual classification reflects a split amongst scientists regarding Neanderthals' relationship to modern humans.

Originally depicted by both popular culture and the scientific community as dark-skinned, hairy, over-muscled brutes, new evidence now suggests that Neanderthals were more likely light-skinned with no more facial or body hair than modern humans. While Neanderthals were significantly stronger than modern humans, examinations of Neanderthal skulls show that the cranial capacity of Neanderthals were as large as modern humans, allowing the theory that Neanderthal brains were at least as large, and possibly larger, than modern human brains. Far from thoughtless brutes, it is now concluded that Neanderthals existed in large social groups, had a language, and were capable of producing advanced tools and solving problems. Were you to see a Neanderthal man in a modern setting, dressed in jeans and a tee shirt, you would probably think nothing more extravagant than, "That dude really works out."

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Rainbow Trout Toy

A unique and delightful stuffed animal!

Our Stuffed Rainbow Trout

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

About Rainbow Trout

Also known as steelhead, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) are native to tributaries of the northern Pacific Ocean in both Asia and North America. Steelhead are sea run, meaning they live in the ocean but return to fresh water to spawn. A very popular game fish, rainbow trout have been introduced to waters in at least 45 countries on every continent but Antarctica. In some cases, particularly in Australia, South America, and Southern Europe, this has had a negative impact on native fish species, who are decimated by rainbow trout through predation, competition, disease, and inter-breeding.

Rainbow trout are not choosy about their diet, eating virtually anything they can grab. Young rainbow trout, called "smolts", feed mostly on insects, fish eggs, crayfish and other crustaceans, and smaller fish. As they mature, fish become more and more their standard diet. In some land-locked cases, rainbow trout have been known to become planktonic feeders, feeding on drifting algae and microorganisms.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Last of the Trilobites

Order Plastic Trilobites

We bought the last of these cute lifelike plastic Bullyland trilobites before the manufacturer closed their US distribution center. We have fewer than 100 left, and when they're gone, they're gone. Too bad!

I hate to see them disappearing from our store, so I want everyone to know that if you want some for your collection, you will need to get them soon.

We sell animal-themed gifts to raise funds for TAPIR conservation.
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE!

Plastic Trilobite

A terrific replica of an amazing creature from Earth's past!

Our Plastic Trilobite Replica

Made of solid plastic, this trilobite's superior design and details make it a museum-quality replica or collector's item, and yet the price puts it in range for the average collector of plastic animals. Topside details include blue-gray eyes and the three ridged lobes for which it was named. The underside also shows the three segments and details of the trilobite's anatomy. It measures 2 inches wide by 3 inches long. The word "Trilobite" is embossed on the underside. Our model trilobite is made in Germany and hand painted; it comes with an informational tag in both German and English. This sturdy, durable trilobite is also excellent for school projects, novelties, party favors or even as a children's toy. Our plastic trilobite is for decoration or play only. It does not float, and should NOT be put in your aquarium with living fish or other aquarium dwellers. However, you can make a terrific ancient sea life shoebox diorama using this wonderful plastic trilobite replica.

About Trilobites

Trilobites were an early form of life on earth that have left many fossils, some of which have been made into beautiful jewelry. They appeared about 600 million years ago during the Cambrian period and ruled the earth for about 350 million years. Their descendants include centipedes, spiders, shrimp, and insects. Trilobites lived in shallow seas, swimming, crawling, and burrowing. They evolved into many different forms during their reign. You can learn more about these interesting creatures at trilobite.com.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.

Stuffed Duck-billed Platypus Toy

One of our most popular items is BACK!

Our Stuffed Platypus

We love this plush stuffed platypus! Look at its amazing toes. They're well-defined, yet soft. All four feet are wide and webbed. The feet are made of plush fabric and the claws won't scratch. The 18-inch length includes the tail. Our platypus is solid, substantial, and fun to hold. As you would imagine, his brown fur is soft and cuddly. To find more animals in this line, or see a list of our entire inventory of stuffed animals, beanies and puppets, check out our Stuffed Animal Page.

About Platypuses

The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) is a semi-aquatic mammal found in Australia. Related to the echidna, it is the only mammal which lays eggs. It has duck's bill, a bever's tail and an otter's foot. On the hind legs there are spurs which can give aterrific venomous bite. Platypus , which means "flat foot" is protected from hunting and is a national symbol of Australia. It is covered with thick brown fur. The platypus feeds by sensing the muscle contractions of its prey, namely worms and crayfish. It can also walk on land and lives in burrows when the water level is low, where its is vulnerable to foxes.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.