There Are 4 Types of Reptiles, But 1 Only Exists in New Zealand

Lizards are some of the most diverse and fascinating creatures on the planet. There are so many types of reptiles that come in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes and colors, from worm-sized snakes and tiny turtles to gargantuan crocodiles and giant monitor lizards that could pass for modern-day dinosaurs.

These cold-blooded animals evolved over 300 million years ago, adapting to nearly every environment on Earth. Today, many lizards thrive as land-dwelling, tree-climbing or desert-living creatures, while others show us just how versatile reptiles can be.

Traits All Reptiles Share

Reptiles share several key traits that make them unique among animals. Almost all reptiles are cold-blooded (the only warm-blooded reptile is the tegu lizard), meaning their body temperature depends on the environment. To stay warm, they bask in the sun, whereas shade or water helps them cool down.

Reptiles lay eggs with leathery or hard shells, though some give birth to live young. Touch their skin and you'll feel tough scales from top to bottom. These help prevent water loss and protect them from predators.

4 Orders of Reptiles

There are four main reptile groups. Each group — called an order — has unique characteristics.

• Crocodylia: Predatory reptiles like the saltwater crocodile are part of this group, which also includes alligators and caimans.

• Rhynchocephalia: Found only in New Zealand, tuataras are the last surviving members of a lineage closely related to lizards.

• Squamata: This group includes many lizards and all snake species. Examples include crested geckos, Komodo dragons and hognose snakes.

• Testudines: From the leatherback sea turtle to land-dwelling tortoises, this group is known for its hard shells and long lifespans.

Where Do Reptiles Live?

Reptiles have adapted to almost every type of environment on Earth. Many lizards thrive in arid deserts, where their scales help retain moisture, while others, like geckos, prefer humid rainforests.

Some aquatic reptiles, such as the leatherback sea turtle, navigate the open ocean; others, like crocodiles, dominate freshwater rivers and swamps.

Some reptiles, including certain snake species and turtles, have even adapted to colder climates, hibernating during the winter. Whether in the canopy of a tropical forest or the sandy dunes of a desert, you can find reptiles almost everywhere.

Which Reptiles Make Good Pets?

Certain modern reptiles make excellent pets due to their manageable size, docile nature and relatively simple care needs; many lizards, like leopard geckos, are popular choices for beginners because they are hardy and easy to handle. Aquatic turtles and tortoises also make great pets, but they require more space and specialized care.

Be sure to research any reptile before bringing it home, as some species, like large monitor lizards, need extensive enclosures and expertise.

While most reptiles can thrive in captivity with proper care, avoid wild-caught reptiles in order to protect natural populations.

Venomous Reptiles

The Gila monster and the Mexican beaded lizard both use venom to subdue prey and defend themselves. Still, their bites, while painful, are rarely life-threatening to humans.

Venomous snakes, such as pit vipers and cobras, are far more common. These snakes use venom to immobilize prey, and some, like rattlesnakes, deliver venom that can be deadly to humans if untreated.

It's worth noting that venomous reptiles play a vital role in controlling pest populations in their ecosystems.

Other reptiles aren't venomous but are still far from safe to be around. You're not likely to win a showdown with an alligator anytime soon. With teeth like that, who cares if they're venomous or not?

Endangered Reptiles

Many reptiles face threats from habitat loss, climate change and illegal wildlife trade. For example, the leatherback sea turtle is critically endangered due to fishing nets and pollution. Predatory reptiles like the saltwater crocodile have also been hunted for their skins, though conservation efforts have helped some populations recover.

Several lizard species, including rare geckos and iguanas, are at risk due to habitat destruction. Protecting reptile eggs, reducing pollution and conserving natural habitats are essential steps in preserving these incredible creatures for future generations.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

Original article: There Are 4 Types of Reptiles, But 1 Only Exists in New Zealand

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