Class Reptilia are ectothermic vertebrates with scales and the ability to lay hard-shelled amniotic eggs. Scales protect reptiles from abrasion and loss of body moisture. Hard-shelled eggs provide a protective environment in which the embryo can develop. The Class Reptilia includes snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and tortoises. There are over 7900 species of reptiles. Since reptiles do not produce their own body heat they modify their activity and behavior to best adapt to changing environmental temperatures.

 

Picture from Disney's Animal Kingdom. Taken by myself (Raul654) in January, 2006. Photo By Jeremy Scholz 2005