Tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus) photographed at Chester Zoo
some years ago; they now have a larger group in new accomodation.
Tuataras are the strangest of all living reptiles. They look like lizards,
but they are unique because they are the only surviving Rhynchocephalians.
They are mainly nocturnal and live only on a few islands in the Cook Strait,
New Zealand. For personal/educational use only.

Alan Hill


tuatara2.JPG


Comments
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From: John White
Subject: Re: Tuatara
Date: Thu, 16 Dec 1999 18:50:02 -0500

Alan,

Great photo! Here's a few more facts that make the Tuatara a very unusual
reptile:
1) Tuataras have the lowest preferred body temperature of any reptile at
12? C or (54? F)
2) Sexual maturity is reached at 20 years of age!
3) Egg incubation takes 13-15 months!

--
Best Regards,

John White
Reptiles & Amphibians of Virginia - http://www.erols.com/reptiles/
Wildlife Photos - http://www.herp-edia.com/photography/ (*New Site*)
Wildlife & Nature Photographs - http://members.xoom.com/crocodilians/