All About Reptiles

Found on every continent except for Antarctica, nearly 8000 species of reptiles walk, crawl, slither and swim in their own unique ways. Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, meaning they are incapable of maintaining a consistent body temperature on their own. They rely on the things around them to warm up or cool down. Their ability to move warm blood into the body core allows them to conserve energy.

There are four reptile orders in existence today. Crocodilia refer to animals like crocodiles and alligators. Squamata refers to lizards, snakes and similar creatures. All turtles are included in the Testudines order. The order Rhynchocephalia contains only two species known as tuataras, native to New Zealand.

A reptile habitat varies greatly from one species to the next. Because reptiles are so diverse and have adapted to so many different climates, the areas they strive in also differ greatly. Like amphibians, reptiles often make their home around water and lay eggs. But reptiles and amphibians also differ in many ways. Reptiles lay their eggs on land, have waterproof skin, and can rarely breathe underwater. Amphibians lay their eggs in water, have permeable skin, and can often breathe underwater.

For a reptile picture and additional information on reptiles and amphibians, follow the links and images provided below.