Slithering Snakes
This large snake, often found in South America, can grow up to 30 feet long and is known to eat prey as large as jaguars.
Anaconda
This lizard is the largest in the world and is native to Indonesia.
Komodo Dragon
These two bone structures make up the main parts of a turtle's protective shell.
ribs and backbone
This is the primary body part alligators and crocodiles use to swim rapidly through the water.
muscular tail
Reptiles are "ectothermic," a scientific term that means they are this.
cold-blooded
These snakes are famous for the "rattle" at the end of their tails, which they use as a warning signal.
Rattlesnakes
These small lizards use millions of microscopic toe structures to stick to almost any surface, including glass.
Geckos
Unlike their aquatic cousins, these reptiles live primarily on land and are known for their long lifespans.
Tortoises
You can tell these two apart by their snouts; one is broad and rounded, while the other is more pointed
Alligators and Crocodiles
This is the protective outer covering found on all reptiles that helps prevent water loss.
scales
This highly venomous African snake is known for its speed and its "ink-black" mouth.
Black Mamba
Named for its bright tongue, this popular pet lizard uses its blue mouth to startle predators.
Blue-tongued Skink
This is the largest turtle species in the world, often weighing over 1,000 pounds.
Leatherback Sea Turtle
This Central and South American relative of the alligator shares its name with a group of Caribbean islands.
Caiman
Most reptiles lay these, which have a leathery or hard shell to protect the developing embryo.
amniotic eggs
Unlike most snakes, this species is named for its unique "sidewinding" movement across desert sands.
Sidewinder
Found in the Southwestern US, this is one of the few venomous lizards in the world.
Gila Monster
This common North American turtle is the official state reptile of New York.
Painted Turtle
This critically endangered crocodilian from India is easily recognized by its long, thin snout.
Gharial
This is the scientific study of reptiles and amphibians.
Herpetology
This term describes snakes with long, hollow fangs that fold up against the roof of the mouth.
Solenoglyphous
This "living fossil" from New Zealand looks like a lizard but belongs to a distinct ancient lineage called Rhynchocephalia.
Tuatara
These are the specific names for the top and bottom sections of a turtle's shell.
carapace (top) and plastron (bottom)
Research into a hormone found in the venom of this specific lizard (not a croc!) led to the development of the drug Ozempic.
Gila Monster
While most snakes lay eggs, this common North American snake species is known for giving birth to live young.
Garter Snake (or Rattlesnake)