Friday the 13th at the Zoo!

At Potter Park Zoo, we love every chance to look at nature through a new lens. This Friday the 13th, we’re taking a tour around the park while exploring which of our wild residents are seen as symbols of luck, both good and bad!

Many animals are considered to bring good luck if spotted. Here are just a few you can find at the zoo:

Deer – Deer are seen in many cultures as symbols of peace, regeneration and adaptability. If you’re in need of some luck, make sure to stop by our tufted deer exhibit! Tufted deer are known for the tuft of hair between their ears and their small size

Tigers – Strong, loyal, and courageous, tigers are a sign of protection in many Asian cultures. They’re also believed to ward off evil spirits. We definitely think our Amur tiger, Vik, fulfills those qualities. Did you know that tigers love water! Unlike most cats, they’re strong swimmers and will often cool off with a dip on hot days.

Lizards – From Native American tribes to ancient Egypt and Indigenous Australian lore, lizards are seen as symbols of healing and prosperity (perhaps due to some various species’ ability to regenerate their tails?). Some cultures believe seeing one is a reminder to stay alert and embrace change.

Frogs – Frogs aren’t just cute; they represent transformation and new beginnings. In ancient times, they were associated with fertility and rain, both considered blessings. Frogs unique calls are how males attract mates. Each species has its own special song! Don’t miss our poison arrow frogs at the Reptile House!

Foxes – Foxes are clever and quick on their feet. In some traditions, foxes bring good luck, especially in figuring out complex problems. Arctic foxes are opportunistic hunters and in the wild will eat small mammals, insects, seabirds, fish, seals, berries, and carrion. Make sure to stop by to visit our Arctic foxes here at Potter Park!

Here at the zoo, there are also creatures some consider unlucky, but might just be misunderstood.

Owls – In some cultures, owl’s eerie calls are thought to signal bad news. But remember, they also help keep rodent populations in check. Come meet our Eurasian eagle-owls, to learn more about their roles in ecosystems.

Bats – Often associated with scary stories, bats have been linked with monsters and villains. But they play a huge role in pest control and pollination, making them unsung heroes. Our bat exhibit can be found in the Reptile House!

Snakes – Slithering and secretive, snakes are feared in many places. Yet they symbolize healing and rebirth in others. Snakes, like owls, are key to controlling rodent populations in ecosystems. Potter Park is home to several species of impressive snakes.

Scorpions – Scorpions have long had a dangerous and scary reputation, but they’re also symbols of protection and defense in some folklore. Here at the zoo, we have common emperor scorpions, which is one of the largest scorpions in the world and glows under UV light!

Foxes – What? Foxes again?! Yes! While admired in some cultures, others see them as a trickster or bad omen. This double identity makes the fox the perfect mascot for Friday the 13^th!

Anteaters – Some South American legends suggest that anteaters are omens of misfortune if you were to encounter them unexpectedly. But, at the zoo, we think it’s your lucky day if you spot our anteater Wayne! Did you know that anteaters will walk on their fists to keep claws sharp for digging into termite mounds? They can detect ants and termites with their sense of smell.

Friday the 13th is a great day to visit the zoo and learn more about these incredible creatures. It turns out the creatures we call unlucky might be some of the most valuable ones around.

Join us at Potter Park Zoo to visit these amazing animals! Tickets can be purchased here.

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