National Reptile Day
#NationalReptileAwarenessDay #NationalReptileDay
National Reptile Day is celebrated annually on October 21. It is a day to learn about reptiles, their natural habitats and the ecological threats they are facing. National Reptile Day was created by a group of reptile enthusiasts who wanted to change how the public perceived reptiles.
Reptiles are important for the environment and local ecosystems because they are hunters and keep both flora and fauna under control. Lizards can control insects and pests in homes and gardens, while snakes can keep rodents under control in the countryside.
Reptiles also help keep our environments clear of carcasses which would otherwise be left to rot. A deal animal is an easy meal for a reptile.
Reptiles often face various threats, such as habitat loss and degradation, which threaten population sizes. Urban/suburban development, aquatic habitat alternation from water withdrawals, water pollution and off-road vehicle use in terrestrial habitats are factors affecting reptile habitats.
Reptiles are also often hunted for their meat, skin and other body parts. Unsustainable hunting can lead to population declines and even extinction of certain species.
National Reptile Day is an important day to raise awareness about the environmental value of reptiles and the need to protect them.
How to celebrate:
- Research the reptile species that inhabit your local area
- Organize a trip to a local zoo to see the larger reptiles
- Visit your local museum to discover the reptile’s ancient ancestors, the dinosaurs, and other reptiles that once roamed the Earth.
- Host an educational workshop about reptiles, their biology and their importance in ecosystem.
- Watch a movie or documentary about reptiles.
Fun Facts:
- Reptiles have been recorded since 400 BC
- Reptiles are found on every continent except Antarctica.
- There are four orders of reptile species: the Crocodilia (crocodiles, alligators, etc.), the Tuatara (lizard-like), the Squamata (includes lizards and snakes), and the Testudines (turtles, tortoises, and terrapins).
- Reptiles are cold-blooded, have scales or scutes and can lay eggs on land.
- There are over 10,000 species of reptiles.
- Both crocodiles and boa constrictors can live for several months on a single meal.
- The Galapagos tortoise can store 20% of its body weight in its bladder.
- If an alligator lays eggs at a temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit, they will become female. They will become male if the temperature is above 93 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The largest reptile in the world is the saltwater crocodile, which can grow up to 23 feet and weigh 2000 pounds.
