The Longnose Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii) is a species of lizard native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It inhabits deserts, scrublands, and rocky hillsides in areas with low rainfall and sparse vegetation. This elusive reptile has an iconic patterned body that includes spots along its back and tail. While it may be …
The mangrove salt marsh snake (Nerodia clarkii) is a species of colubrid endemic to the southeastern United States coastal plain. It inhabits brackish marshes and estuaries, where it feeds primarily on fish, frogs, lizards, rodents and other small vertebrates. This article will provide an overview of the ecology and behavior of this fascinating species within …
The Mediterranean gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) is a unique species of lizard native to the region surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. It has become one of the most widely distributed reptile species in the world, with populations found as far away from its home range as Australia and California. As such, it is an important subject for …
The Mexican kingsnake (Lampropeltis mexicana) is a species of colubrid snake native to Mexico, the southwestern United States, and parts of Central America. Its popularity as an exotic pet makes it one of the most recognizable snakes in North America. This article will provide an overview of this species’ natural history, behavior in captivity, and …
Ground skinks are a diverse group of lizards that have adapted to live in many different habitats. These small-sized reptiles can be found throughout the southern United States, ranging from Texas to South Carolina and Georgia. They demonstrate remarkable resilience due to their ability to burrow underground and hide under rocks or logs when threatened …
The Flat-tail Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii) is a species of lizard native to the western United States and northern Mexico. This unique reptile has been studied by scientists for many years, as its remarkable adaptations have made it an interesting subject in the field of herpetology. Its distinctive habitat preferences, defensive behaviors, and reproduction habits …
The Florida banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata pictiventris) is an endemic species of the southeastern United States. This subspecies of water snake can be identified by its pattern of alternating black and brown bands with a yellowish-brown head, which makes it easily distinguishable from other snakes in the area. Found primarily in wetlands, marshes, ponds, …
The Florida cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus conanti) is a venomous snake found in the southeastern United States and parts of Mexico. It is one of six subspecies belonging to the Agkistrodon genus, which also includes copperheads, bushmasters, and mambas. The Florida cottonmouth can grow up to three feet long and has an unmistakable pattern of black …
The Florida kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula floridana) is an important species of the colubrid family, native to the southeast United States. It has a long and varied history in this region as both a wild and captive animal. This article will explore its habitat, behavior, anatomy and physiology, focusing on how it differs from other subspecies …
The Florida redbelly turtle (Pseudemys nelsoni) is a species of freshwater turtles found in the southeastern United States. It is native to the Atlantic Coast from South Carolina to central Florida, and west to northern Alabama and Mississippi. The species was first described by John M. Legler in 1957, who named it after his mentor …
Florida softshell is a species of turtle native to the southeastern United States. It inhabits freshwater rivers, streams and ponds from North Carolina south to Florida and west to Texas. This species has an elongated carapace that can be up to 12 inches in length and its shell is often rounder than other turtles. The …
Gilberts skink (Plestiodon gilberti) is an endangered species of lizard found in the Solomon Islands. It has distinctive yellow and brown stripes, a long tail, and can reach lengths of up to 13cm. This species is an important part of its local ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations. Unfortunately, due to deforestation and …
The Gila Monster (Heloderma suspectum) is an impressive and unique species native to the southwestern United States. Its defining features are its large, heavy body with a yellow-orange coloration; visible ridges on the back of its head, neck and tail; and venomous saliva which it uses for defence against potential predators. A closer look at …