TYLER, Texas — Baloo is a snake with a job. He's an animal ambassador at the Caldwell Zoo.
As an ambassador, Baloo is part of a group of education animals that represent their wild counterparts to the public. They are often involved in school group talks or zoo camps to help children understand the important of species preservation.
"It's really important to instill a conservation mindedness in people for these species because they might not get the most love," said Jack Cross, reptile keeper at the Caldwell Zoo.
As a rosy boa, Baloo is familiar with this perception. And, as one of the friendliest snakes in East Texas, he is great at helping break stereotype.
For more behind-the-scenes zoo content, watch CBS19 on Fridays during Morning Y'all for the weekly segment, Exploring the Caldwell Zoo.