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Meet ZooMontana's bearded dragon (VIDEO)

Moana, the zoo's resident bearded dragon
Posted at 12:36 PM, Nov 13, 2021
and last updated 2021-11-14 10:48:41-05

MISSOULA — We talked with Jeff Ewelt, the director of ZooMontana, to learn more about the zoo's resident bearded dragon.

When they are not basking in the sun, they can be found eating just about anything, ranging from leaves to flowers, to insects and other lizards. They have strong jaws, allowing them to crunch through the exoskeletons of a variety of insects.

The beard of these dragons is found on both sexes, and is used for communication. It can even change color depending on their mood.

ZooMontana cares for more than 80 animals of 56 species, including Amur Tigers, Grizzly Bear, Wolverine, River Otters, Takin, and Canada Lynx, among others, most of which are rescues.

As one of the few Zoological parks in the country that does not receive public tax support, ZooMontana raises necessary operating funds through admissions, memberships, events, and private contributions.

Click here to learn more about ZooMontana, which is located off the I-90 Zoo Drive exit in Billings.