New Wildlife Exhibit Coming To Gumbo Limbo In Boca Raton

The interactive 'Florida's Wild Backyard' exhibit will feature native species displays and an invasive-species scavenger hunt.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton is planning to open a new interactive exhibit called 'Florida's Wild Backyard' in summer 2026. The exhibit will feature displays of native reptiles, plants, and aquatic species, as well as an educational scavenger hunt focused on identifying and understanding invasive species.

Why it matters

The new exhibit is designed to bring Florida's diverse wildlife and ecosystems closer to home for Boca Raton visitors, highlighting the animals and habitats that exist along the coast. It aims to encourage conservation and responsible pet ownership by teaching visitors about the threats posed by invasive species.

The details

The exhibit will be located in the reimagined space of the former sea turtle rehabilitation area at Gumbo Limbo, utilizing existing infrastructure like seawater supply and tanks. Planned features include exhibits showcasing native snakes, gopher tortoises, box turtles, and various marine animals. The interactive scavenger hunt will teach visitors how to identify invasive species and understand the impacts they can have on local habitats.

  • Gumbo Limbo Nature Center announced the new exhibit on February 18, 2026.
  • The 'Florida's Wild Backyard' exhibit is targeted to open in summer 2026.

The players

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

A nature center located in Boca Raton, Florida, on the city's barrier island. It features outdoor aquariums, a boardwalk through a coastal forest, and educational programming focused on the local environment and wildlife.

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What’s next

The new exhibit is part of Gumbo Limbo's broader education and conservation mission, and the center has encouraged residents to visit now and return when 'Florida's Wild Backyard' opens.

The takeaway

The 'Florida's Wild Backyard' exhibit at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center will provide Boca Raton visitors with an immersive and educational experience focused on the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found in the local area, helping to promote conservation and responsible stewardship of the environment.