Description
Tuatara (Sphenodon) is a reptile endemic to New Zealand, often mistaken for a lizard due to its lizard-like appearance. It has a spiny crest running down its back and exhibits unique primitive features, such as a parietal eye on its forehead, which is believed to help regulate circadian rhythms.
- Endemic to New Zealand.
- Reptile with lizard-like appearance.
- Has a parietal eye, a primitive feature.
Habitat
Tuatara inhabit cooler, moist environments, primarily in coastal forests and shrublands. They prefer rocky areas for shelter and nesting. Their ecological niche includes being both diurnal and nocturnal, which is unusual for reptiles, allowing them to avoid competition with introduced species.
- Found in coastal forests and shrublands.
- Prefer rocky areas for shelter.
- Both diurnal and nocturnal.
Behavior
Tuatara exhibit unique behavioral traits, such as being both diurnal and nocturnal. They are territorial and engage in puffing displays to assert dominance. Tuatara are also known for their slow metabolism and long lifespan, often living over 100 years.
- Both diurnal and nocturnal.
- Territorial with puffing displays.
- Long lifespan, exceeding 100 years.
Reproduction
Tuatara reproduce sexually, with males displaying courtship behaviors, including head-bobbing and biting. They lay eggs, which is rare for reptiles in New Zealand, and have a long incubation period, sometimes up to 15 months. This prolonged development is linked to their adaptation to cooler climates.
- Sexual reproduction with distinct courtship.
- Lay eggs with long incubation periods.
- Up to 15 months incubation.