Reptiles and Amphibians

What animal has the longest life span in the world? A radiated tortoise given to the Madagascar royal family by Captain Cook lived to 188 years of age. Galapagos giant tortoises have been recorded as living 177 years.

What is the largest snake species? The South American anaconda is thought to be the largest, although some pythons in Africa may come close in size.

What is the biggest reptile in the world? Salt water crocodiles of Australia are the biggest, measuring up to 23 feet long.

What is the largest lizard species? Komodo dragons of south east Asia are the biggest lizard in the world, weighing up to 176 pounds. They can eat a whole cow in one sitting.

What is the difference between reptiles and amphibians? Reptiles have dry, scaly skin and are not dependent on water for reproduction. Amphibians have porous skin, and must remain close to water at all times. Reptiles lay hard or leathery eggs, and the babies look like mini adults when they hatch. Amphibians lay eggs in a jelly like mass, and new hatchlings emerge in a larval stage.

Are garter snakes dangerous? No. They're completely harmless.