Reptiles

Reproduction – Most reptiles lay eggs, though some species give birth to live young.

Growth – Unlike mammals, many reptiles continue to grow throughout their lives.

Each species has unique features – tortoises have hard, protective shells, pythons are powerful constrictors, and our Rio Fuerte beaded lizard is one of the few venomous lizards in the world.

​​Reptiles can be found in various environments including scorching deserts and lush forests. Their ability to adapt to different conditions has helped them survive for millenia. Some, like tortoises, prefer warm, dry areas with plenty of vegetation to eat. Their thick, domed shells provide protection from predators and harsh weather. Pythons, on the other hand, thrive in tropical and subtropical regions. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, using their strong, muscular bodies to move through trees, water, and grasslands while hunting for prey. The Rio Fuerte beaded lizard, native to Mexico’s dry scrublands, has a unique adaptation – a slow metabolism – which allows it to survive on fewer meals than many other reptiles. These incredible survival skills help reptiles live in many different habitats, even in extreme conditions where other animals might struggle.

Reptiles may not be the first animals that come to mind when thinking about nature’s balance, but they are very important in ecosystems around the world. As predators, they help control populations of insects, rodents, and other small animals, preventing any one species from becoming too dominant. Some, like tortoises, act as seed dispersers, helping plants grow in new areas by carrying seeds in their digestive systems. Others, such as pythons and lizards, regulate prey populations, which keeps the food chain stable. Without reptiles, many ecosystems would struggle to maintain their natural harmony, showing just how important these often-overlooked creatures really are.