Reptiles are a diverse group of animals that play an important role in the environment. They inhabit many different habitats and have adapted to their environments over millions of years. This article will discuss what reptiles are, how they live, and why they are important for our world today. Reptiles first appeared about 320 million …
Alligators and crocodiles are two species of large reptiles belonging to the same family, Crocodylidae. Despite their close relationship, alligators and crocodiles have several key differences in their physical appearances and behaviors that distinguish them from one another. The first area of distinction is seen in the shape of an alligator’s snout compared to a …
Unless you are an avid reptile keeper, you likely don’t know about reptiles beyond the basics taught in schools. One of the most common questions people have is how they breathe? Let’s find out. Reptiles, including snakes, turtles, tortoises, crocodiles, alligators, and lizards, breathe air using their lungs. Reptiles use their lungs to take in …
Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes that inject poison using their fangs. This is to disable and kill their prey so that the snake can then eat. They also use their fangs to protect themselves against attack. The fact that rattlesnakes are poisonous makes them creatures to be feared by human beings. There are 15 species of …
You might think that birds and reptiles couldn’t be further different when you compare an alligator lazily sunning itself in Florida against a small songbird feeding in your backyard. Buzzards circle above the deserts while vipers swim through the sand below. There are several main differences between birds and reptiles. The most noticeable is that …
The American alligator is a fearsome and iconic species found in the southeastern waterways of the US. For those that live in these areas, this massive reptile is just another native species in the ecosystem. However, people outside of the region can struggle to imagine life with an alligator in the vicinity. What makes this …
There are stereotypical images of swamps, and many people across the U.S. resist treading too far for fear of what lies within. Often, these fears relate to the reptiles lurking in the water and vegetation. Those with concerns about snakes know that many may live here unseen. Then there are those scared of encountering an …
There are hundreds of species of reptiles in North America. Reptiles are adaptable, but they thrive in warmer climates. They are found throughout almost all North America except the far northern regions of Canada and Alaska. Reptiles are a very diverse group. They include snakes, turtles, crocodiles, and more. Whether you measure in length or …