[Columbia, SC] - A royal palm turkey has made his way into Riverbanks Farm at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. With gorgeous black and white feathers and a beautiful red and blue head, this turkey is not what you would expect the average turkey to look like.

Smaller than average, royal palm turkeys are ornamental and rarely exceed 22 pounds. Male turkeys like to show a large display of feathers and sound their distinctive gobble to mark their territory and attract new mates. Their behavior is fascinating to watch.

The royal palm turkey is just one of many new additions at Riverbanks Farm. Rabbits have just been added to the growing collection of animals, and a chicken coop is expected to be completed by this winter. The coop will allow visitors to observe many different types of chickens in various stages of their lives. Visitors will also be allowed to feed them.

Riverbanks Farm has been entertaining millions of children since 1987. The Farm not only has animals to touch, but also interactive computers with touch screens to learn about the animals. Large graphic boards teach children and parents alike what each animal eats, where they originate and other fun animal facts.

Riverbanks provides guests with the opportunity to observe animals in their natural environment from a distance; however, at Riverbanks Farm, close encounters with animals are encouraged. A Jersey cow, a llama and Nubian goats are also available to touch and feed.

“The Riverbanks Farm is very popular with children,” said John Davis, curator of mammals. “The farm encourages up-close interaction with domestic animals that you can’t do with exotic animals. As Columbia becomes more urban, children aren’t able to touch or feed these types of animals. The Riverbanks Farm is a great place for that.”

In addition to large animals, there are many small animals and reptiles to view. There are snakes, frogs, owls, turtles, mice and rats to observe and learn about. Each animal or reptile is in a small replica of their natural habitat.

The most popular part of the Riverbanks Farm has always been the pony rides. Children are invited to ride on a pony, with the assistance of a trainer, along a naturalistic trail. Pony rides are an additional charge from general admission and typically run from 10am to 4pm everyday.

Whether it’s a pony ride, the chicken hatchery or the royal palm turkey that brings you to Riverbanks Farm, you are sure not to leave disappointed.