All you need to know about these cold-blooded animals
Are all reptiles cold-blooded?
Yes, all reptiles are cold-blooded. They are ectothermic, which means they rely on their environment to maintain their body temperature and cannot maintain a constant temperature themselves. They usally have low metabolic rates and low energy requirements in comparison to mammals, hence they do not need to eat as often. They rely on the sun to warm up in the cold and seek shade to cool down when it's warm.
Do all reptiles lay eggs?
Most reptiles lay eggs in an excavated hole. A few, like king cobras, build nests that help regulate temperature. In most cases, the nest/burrow temperature during incubation determines the sex of hatchlings. Some reptiles like boas and pythons give birth to live young.
Are reptiles covers in scales?
Reptiles usally have skin that is covered in scales or bony scutes.
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