Why is snake a reptile

Amphibians need water in their habitat, because they spend at least part of their life cycle in water, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation. In addition, most amphibians lay their eggs in water. Reptiles, on the other hand, do not have to spend part of their lives in water, although they do often live near water and spend time in water.

Take frogs, for example. Frogs are amphibians. They spend time on land, but in their larval stage, as tadpoles, they live in water. Snakes, on the other hand, are reptiles. Some snakes, like the northern water snake, live in water, but not all snakes do. In fact, many snake species live in desert climates. The function of the skin is also different in reptiles and amphibians. Reptiles have scaly skin that allows them to survive in hot, dry climates, the Department of Conservation reports.

Amphibians, though, have thin, delicate skin that they can actually breathe through. Because the skin of an amphibian is porous, they are very sensitive to toxins and other pollutants, particularly in water, according to the Shedd Aquarium.

The presence of amphibians in an area is a sign of good water quality. Reptiles are able to protect themselves from these same pollutants because toxins can't penetrate their scales. What can I do to help amphibians and reptiles?

Here's how you can help herps: Support the work of the Center for Biological Diversity by making a donation today. Sign up on our website for future alerts about how you can help save species. Increase public awareness of the amphibian and reptile extinction crisis by downloading free amphibian and reptile ringtones.

Create your own backyard sanctuary for amphibians and reptiles. Prevent raccoons, crows and other predators from feeding on your garbage. These animals are a big problem for herps, such as freshwater turtles, whose nests they raid. Drive carefully! Road mortality is major threat for frogs, toads, snakes, turtles and other wildlife, especially spring migrations. Here are some tips on helping turtles cross the road.

Get involved with local conservation projects and tell your neighbors to get involved too. More than one-third of U. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.

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