Order Squamata
Name a reptile in this order
Gila monster, rattlesnake, or iguana
What protects a turtle?
A turtle is protected by its hard shell, which is made of bone and keratin.
What order are alligators in?
Alligators are in the Order Crocodilia.
What do reptiles use scales for?
Reptiles use scales to protect their bodies and to prevent water loss, helping them survive in dry environments.
What do reptiles eat?
Reptiles eat a variety of foods, including insects, rodents, fish, and small animals. Some larger reptiles may also eat birds or other reptiles.
What does a Gila monster use to defend itself?
A Gila monster uses venomous saliva to defend itself.
How does a desert tortoise survive dry weather?
A desert tortoise survives dry weather by storing water in its bladder and burrowing to stay cool.
What helps crocodiles see while hiding?
Crocodiles can see while hiding because their eyes are positioned on top of their heads, allowing them to stay mostly underwater while watching above the surface.
What helps snakes smell?
Snakes smell using their forked tongues and a special organ called the Jacobson’s organ located on the roof of their mouth.
How do reptiles help control pests?
Reptiles help control pests by eating insects, rodents, and other small animals, keeping their populations in check.
What helps lizards catch prey?
Lizards use their long, sticky tongues or quick reflexes to catch prey.
What kind of legs do tortoises have?
Tortoises have strong, thick legs that are well-suited for digging and walking on land.
What do crocodiles use their jaws for?
Crocodiles use their powerful jaws to catch, crush, and hold onto prey.
How do alligators stay underwater longer?
Alligators stay underwater longer by slowing their heart rate and holding their breath, which helps them conserve oxygen.
What would happen if reptiles disappeared?
If reptiles disappeared, insect and rodent populations could grow out of control, disrupting food chains and ecosystems, as reptiles play a key role in controlling these populations.
Do all Squamata have venom?
No, not all Squamata have venom. Only some species, like certain snakes and the Gila monster, produce venom.
What’s unique about turtle shells?
Turtle shells are unique because they are part of their skeleton and cannot be removed. They are made of both bone and keratin.
What order has the strongest bite?
The Order Crocodilia has the strongest bite of all reptiles.
What lets reptiles survive in deserts?
Reptiles survive in deserts because of their thick, scaly skin that reduces water loss, and their ability to store water and stay cool by burrowing.
Why are reptiles important in the food chain?
Reptiles are important in the food chain because they act as both predators and prey, helping to regulate populations of smaller animals and providing food for larger predators.
How do snakes move without legs?
Snakes move without legs by using muscle contractions and the friction of their scales to slither forward.
How long can tortoises live?
Tortoises can live over 100 years, with some species reaching up to 150 years.
What makes crocodiles great hunters?
Crocodiles are great hunters because of their powerful jaws, stealthy movements, camouflaged bodies, and ability to ambush prey from the water.
How do reptiles conserve water?
Reptiles conserve water by having thick, waterproof skin and by producing dry, solid waste instead of liquid urine.
Name one way reptiles help ecosystems stay balanced.
Reptiles help ecosystems stay balanced by controlling the populations of insects and small animals, which prevents overgrazing and promotes healthy plant growth.