| Reptile | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Physical description | |
| Habitat | Almost every biome except the polar regions |
| Lifespan | Up to 150 years, depending on the species |
| Average Size | From 2 centimeters to 6 meters |
| Average weight | Up to 1 ton or more |
| Diet | Herbivorous/Carnivorous |
| Scientific classification | |
| Distribution | |
| Distribution of species | Every continent except Antarctica |
Reptiles are animals in the class Reptilia. They are characterized by breathing air, laying shelled eggs (except for some vipers and constrictor snakes that give live birth), and having skin covered in scales and/or scutes. Reptiles are classically viewed as having a cold-blooded metabolism. They are tetrapods (either having four limbs or being descended from four-limbed ancestors). Modern reptiles inhabit every continent with the exception of Antarctica, and four living orders are currently recognized:
- Crocodilia (crocodiles, gavials, caimans, and alligators): 23 species
- Sphenodontia (tuataras from New Zealand): 2 species
- Squamata (lizards, snakes, and worm lizards): approximately 7,900 species
- Testudines (turtles and tortoises): approximately 300 species