8.06 Safari Quest Four—Reptiles

Understanding the special features of each group of reptiles will be helpful as you continue the quest for the reptile you'll include in your Reptile Field Guide. Consider the following information about reptiles as you continue.

It's hard to believe that all of these are in the same class of animals, but they do share some common characteristics.

• Reptiles are all ectotherms, as the amphibians were. Recall that an ectotherm is an animal whose body temperature is not internally regulated and stays very close to the temperature of its surroundings.
• Reptiles have scales for protection against harsh environments and to protect them from water loss.
• Reptiles have a variety of sense organs.
• Reptiles lay eggs, called amniotic eggs, with tough, leathery coverings.

Now you should have a pretty good understanding of the animals in class Reptilia and their special characteristics. It's time to complete the Reptile Field Guide and move on. Choose your reptile and complete the field guide!

The following are some websites to help you get started researching a reptile of your choice. This is just a start. You may find other websites that will also help you fill in your field guide.

Web Resources:

Life Science Connections: Reptiles

Animal Diversity Web: Reptiles

Teaching and Learning Resources: Reptiles

I can't believe we've already completed so much of our Safari Quest.

We'll be staying on the islands a bit longer to continue your quest activities with a look at birds. In addition to the unique reptiles you've seen, there are quite a few unique birds on these islands too.

If you have completed your Reptile Field Guide, head over to the Travel Log tab to finish up.