Located in the halls of the Life Sciences A-wing is a living collection of Arizona native reptiles that includes nearly all of the 19 types of rattlesnakes found in Arizona, as well as a Gila Monster. Take a self-guided tour through the halls to view these amazing animals of Arizona. Among many others, the collection features:

• A ridge-nosed rattlesnake, the state reptile.
• A rare Arizona bloodline albino Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake

• A gila monster, one of two venomous lizards in the world.

• A Sonoran Desert tortoise, another iconic species of the Southwest.

Fun facts

• Rattlesnakes have heat-sensing pits on their face.
• Venom toxicity differs among rattlesnake species.
• Rattlesnakes give birth to live young, and they stay with mom for their first week of life.
• A desert tortoise’s urinary bladder serves as a canteen to store water.
• Gila monster’s tail stores energy, much like a camel’s hump.

Life Science A-wing

Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Closed on holidays).

451 E Tyler Mall

Tempe, AZ 85281

Phone: 480-965-3396

Guided tours for groups are available by appointment based on availability.