Reptiles will rule the Labor Day weekend at the Brevard Zoo.

The sixth annual Reptile Weekend returns to the zoo this weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The weekend’s star attraction will be a new alligator snapping turtle exhibit in Wild Florida.

These prehistoric-looking turtles sport a spiked shell and beak-like jaws. The zoo’s male alligator snapping turtle is named Capone. He is about 44 years old and weighs roughly 60 pounds. They are the largest turtles found in North America and can live 50 to 100 years. They spend the vast majority of their lives in water and can stay submerged underwater for 40 to 50 minutes before needing air. Alligator snapping turtles capture prey with an impressive tongue that appears as a bright-red, worm-shaped piece of flesh that draws fish and frogs close enough to be caught and eaten.

As part of the event, the zoo will also showcase the zoo’s collection of turtles and tortoises inside the  Nyami River Lodge including the impressive African spurred tortoise, Eastern box turtle, Florida box turtle, Gulf Coast box turtle, keeled box turtle, red-footed tortoise, yellow-footed tortoise, and gopher tortoise. In addition, other turtles and tortoises can be seen in the Wildlife Detective Training Academy in Paws On. Each day at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., guests can enjoy a special animal encounter with reptiles and birds as well as a daily alligator feeding demo at 3 p.m.

“This is a chance for guests to meet some really fantastic creatures and learn about the world of reptiles. We think it is important to bring awareness to the commitment it takes to own a reptile as a pet and the implications these invasive species have on Florida’s ecosystems,” said Andrea Hill, marketing director.

Brevard Zoo is home to more than 550 animals representing over 165 species from Florida, Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The zoo features many extraordinary animal experiences including giraffe and lorikeet feedings, African and wetland kayak tours, and a train ride.  Brevard Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The Brevard Zoo is located east of I-95 at exit 191 on Wickham Road in Melbourne – 45 minutes from the Orlando airport. Open daily 9:30 a.m. to-5 p.m. (last admission at 4:15 pm). Call (321) 254-WILD or visit brevardzoo.org. Admission $13.50/Adults 13 and older; $12.50/Seniors ages 60+; $10/Children ages 2–12; and, FREE to children under two. Parking is always free. Group discounts and adventure packaging available.