What is an ambassador animal?

The Association of Zoos & Aquariums defines an ambassador animal as "an animal whose role includes handling and/or training by staff or volunteers for interaction with the public, and in support of institutional education and conservation goals." Here at Hartman Reserve Nature Center, we consider our ambassador animals to be our coworkers! Whether we are comparing and contrasting native vs. non-native Iowan species, sharing their life history, or discussing how our actions impact the world around us, they play a key role in connecting people to the environment and encourage them to learn more about environmental and species conservation. 

MEET OUR AMBASSADOR ANIMALS

Click the images to learn more!

POSIE
Virginia Opossum

BERT MACLIN, FBI (Retired)
Western Hognose Snake

MAPLE
​Spiny Softshell Turtle

SALLY SQUAD
Tiger Salamander

KATHY
Western Fox Snake

DOBBY
​Painted Turtle

TACO
Three-Toed Box Turtle

STICKY
​Eastern Gray Tree Frog
​Page coming soon...

REESE SLITHERSPOON
​Corn Snake

BOOMER
Red Eared Slider

CALLIE & MYRTLE
​Ornate Box Turtle

RICKY
Eastern American Toad
​Page coming soon...