Hey everyone!

Have you ever stopped to think about how awesome reptiles are? From turtles and lizards to snakes and crocodiles, they’re some of the most fascinating animals on Earth.

Reptiles have been around for millions of years, and they’ve adapted to live in deserts, forests, wetlands even your backyard!

So, what makes a reptile a reptile? Here are some easy-to-understand characteristics of reptiles:

• Cold-blooded – Reptiles can't make their own body heat, so they rely on the sun to warm up.

• Dry, scaly skin – Unlike amphibians, reptiles have skin covered in tough, dry scales that help protect them and keep water in.

• Lay eggs (mostly) – Most reptiles lay eggs with leathery shells, though some give birth to live young.

• Breathe with lungs – Even reptiles that live in water, like turtles, need to come up for air.

• Backbone – Reptiles are vertebrates, which means they have a spine.

There are four main groups of reptiles:

1. Snakes and lizards

2. Turtles and tortoises

3. Crocodiles and alligators

4. Tuataras – rare reptiles found only in New Zealand!

Reptiles come in all shapes and sizes. Some are super fast, others are slow and steady. Some are harmless, while others, like certain snakes or crocodiles, can be dangerous—but they all play a role in nature.

Do you have a favorite reptile or an interesting story? Maybe you’ve seen one in the wild or even keep one as a pet? I’d love to hear about it!