Amphibian Week

Closeup of a cave salamander

Hop into Amphibian Week at the Reptile Discovery Center! On Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., join the Zoo’s animal care team as well as scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and the Fish and Wildlife Service  as they celebrate the awesome and amazing abilities of amphibians native to the United States and around the world. Learn about cutting-edge conservation research, go “toad-to-toad” in an amphibian trivia game, and leap to the art station to create your own colorful amphibians and enjoy some fun giveaways.  

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., keepers will host animal demonstrations near the Jewels of Appalachia exhibit. Visitors can meet animal ambassadors, including a Panamanian golden frog, coronated tree frog, Vietnamese mossy frog, fire bellied toadlets, Japanese giant salamander, poison dart frogs and a few local salamanders native to the Shenandoah mountains of Virginia. See them up close, learn fun facts to share with friends and get tips on how to help amphibians where you live. These demonstrations will take place every 30 minutes on the hour and half-hour.  

This event is free, open to the public and will take place rain or shine.  

Amphibian Week is a multi-day celebration of amphibians and the important role they play in our environment. Stay tuned to the Zoo's website for interesting amphibian stories, or join the fun on social media by following #amphibianweek

Know Before You Go

  • There is no special ticket to this event. Just come to the Reptile Discovery Center!
  • All guests, including children under 2 years old, must have an Entry Pass to enter the Zoo. Entry Passes are free and can be booked on the Zoo's website.
  • To help our staff scan Entry Passes efficiently, all members of your party should plan on entering the Zoo together.
  • Please have your Entry Pass QR codes ready to scan when entering the Zoo.
  • Members can walk through the Zoo’s pedestrian entrances without reserving Entry Passes. Simply present your ID along with your membership card on your phone or provide a copy printed from home.
  • Daily parking is not included with Zoo admission. If you plan to drive and park at the Zoo, you can pay a flat-rate parking fee of $30 per vehicle in advance/$40 day-of. Due to the popularity of the Zoo in early May, we recommend you purchase your Parking Pass online before your visit.
  • Drivers should plan to enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.
  • Member parking benefits may be used for this event. Member Parking Passes must be reserved in advance online; they cannot be redeemed on-site. Become a Member today!
  • All Parking Pass purchases are non-refundable, and exchanges are subject to availability.

Visit our Accessibility page for information on how we provide inclusive experiences for all audiences. Please ask for assistance at the Visitor's Center or the Information Station near Lion/Tiger Hill after entering the Zoo. 

  • Wheelchairs, electronic convenience vehicles (or "scooters"), strollers, and wagons are available to rent at both locations.
  • A photo ID or driver's license from the U.S. or other country of origin is required for all rentals. Passports are not accepted for security and safety concerns. Operators must be 18 years or older.