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Reptiles

What Is a Reptile?

Reptiles have been around for 300 million years, and during the age of the dinosaurs, they ruled the Earth. Those days are long gone, and those giants have vanished, but some 6,500 species of reptiles still thrive today. Crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and turtles are all reptiles. Most reptiles live on land, and most lay eggs. They are vertebrates, and, unlike any other animals, are covered in scales. They are cold-blooded, and regulate their body temperature by seeking or avoiding the sun's heat.

Reptile Features

Photo: Lonesome George, a giant tortoise

Lonesome George a Father?

The last of his species, the giant tortoise Lonesome George has fertilized 11 eggs with 2 females at his home on one of the Galápagos Islands, scientists say.

Photo: King cobra

King Cobra

Hear how a camera protected photographer Mattias Klum during a king cobra attack.

Photo: A coiled prairie rattlesnake

Rattlesnakes Photo Gallery

Check out this collection of rattlers, including the diamondback and western Massasauga. Download wallpapers to your desktop.

Photo: A saltwater crocodile on a beach

Saltwater Crocodile

Come face-to-face with a massive "salty," considered the animal most likely to eat a human. Learn how they kill prey as large as water buffalo, wild boar, and even shark.

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