"'CARD 21

GIANT TORTOISE
____________________
ORDER
Chelonia
FAMILY
Testudinoidae
.. GENUS
Geochelone
This prehistoric-looking giant tortoise is found only on
isolated islands. It may live longer than 100 years.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Up to 5 ft.
Weight: Up to 600 lb .
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 20-25 years.
Mating: February to March.
No. of eggs: 10-20.
Incubation: 2 months.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Generally solitary, but
gathers to feed when food and
water are scarce.
Diet: Grass and leaves; cactus,
lichen, and carrion.
lifespan: At least 100 years,
possibly 200.
RELATED SPECIES
The two species of giant tortoise,
Geochelone gigantea and G. elephan-
top us, are not directly related to
each other. G. gigantea relatives
include the leopard tortoise, G.
pardalis, and the Indian star
tortoise, G. elegans.
Range of the giant tortoise species.
DISTRIBUTION
Pacific species, Geochelone elephantopus, lives on several
islands of the Galapagos. The Indian Ocean species, G.
gigantea, is now limited to the island of Aldabra.
CONSERVATION
The Aldabran G. gigantea population flourishes and its future
seems secure. The Galapagos population of G. elephantopus
competes with introduced species and is endangered.
FEATURES OF THE GIANT TORTOISE SPECIES
THE SPECIALIZED SHELLS
Two species on the
Galapagos islands have
evolved differently shaped
shells, each adapting to
the native vegetation.
- Shell : The tortoise's high, convex
shell provides defense against
predators. The limbs can be drawn
into the shell.
Legs: Tough scales cover the legs.
Feet: The tortoise's feet are not
webbed for swimming.
Pet tortoise: This Mediterranean tortoise grows to
about 10 in. It has spurred thighs.
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Saddle-backed shell
Testudinoidae elephantopus
hoodensis: The shell is raised
Dome-backed shell
T. e. elephantopus: Found
where food is plentiful at
ground level.
0160200191 PACKET 19
The enormous size and weight of the giant
tortoises make them look like throwbacks
to another age; in fact, they were isolated
on their islands for thousands of years.
They adapted through time to the
natural changes of their habitat.
~ HABITAT
Several species of tortoise ex-
ist throughout the world, but
the true giants are restricted
to a few isolated tropical
islands in the Pacific and
Indian oceans. There are two
species of giant tortoise: one
is on the Galapagos islands,
off the coast of Ecuador; the
other is now restricted to
the island of Aldabra, near
Madagascar.
Two species of giant tor-
toise on the Galapagos Islands
have evolved to suit the vege-
tation. A raised carapace
(upper shell) enables one
species to feed on vegetation
growing above ground level.
This contrasts with the species
of giant tortoise that lives in
areas where there is more
vegetation. This tortoise does
not need to stretch above its
head for food, so its dome-
shaped shell has not evolved
with a raised carapace.
The giant tortoise is a vul-
nerable animal, despite its
armor. But the giants have
been able to flourish on their
islands because they have no
predators. In 1965 it was es-
timated that there were be-
tween 60,000 and 100,000
giant tortoises on Aldabra,
over 10,000 per square mile.
Right: A raised carapace, or
outer shell, allows this tortoise to
reach tender leaves.
~ BREEDING
The male giant tortoise bobs
his head and bellows loudly
when he attempts to attract a
mate. If the female accepts
him, the male tortoise will
mount her from behind. His
undershell is hollowed out to
accommodate her domed
carapace, or upper shell.
The female lays 10 to 20
round eggs and buries them
in the sand or soil, where
they incubate. The hatchling
Left: The giant tortoise was once
hunted for its fine oil.
DID YOU KNOW?
The giant tortoise can live
for 200 years. An adult
tortoise taken to Mauritius
from the Seychelles in 1776
lived for another 142 years,
until 1918.
A tortoise's shell prevents
tortoises are no more than
two inches long. On Aldabra
many hatchlings are prey for
robber crabs and frigate
birds. On the Galapagos,
introduced predators such as
rats, cats, and dogs kill the
hatchlings. After 18 months,
young tortoises are still no
larger than a man's fist. They
grow steadily for 40 years
before they reach full size.
Right: The tiny eggs incubate in
the sand for two months before
hatching.
it from expanding its chest,
so it has special muscles to
help it breathe.
The shell of a giant tortoise
is surprisingly fragile. Its bone
structure is very light, and the
shell itself is easily damaged.
~ FOOD & FEEDING
The giant tortoise's diet con-
sists mainly of vegetation, but
it will eat almost anything.
When food is plentiful during
the rainy season, it can be
more selective, favoring fresh
young grass shoots and
tender new leaves.
Few shrubs on Aldabra
have foliage within the reach
of the tortoise, and few
seedlings survive to maturity.
The Aldabran tortoises float
Left: When
food is scarce
on Aldabra
Island, the
giant tortoise
often goes into
lagoon waters
in search of
weeds.
on the surface of the island's
lagoon, reaching into the
water with their long necks to
feed on seaweed.
On the more arid Galapa-
gos Islands, fresh grass and
tender leaves are rare. Here,
the tortoises feed on cactus,
lichen, and even the acidic
leaves of the guava tree. Very
little food is available during
the dry season. The tortoise
survives for weeks on shriv-
elled grass, dead leaves, and
the remains of dead crabs,
goats, and even the carrion
(dead flesh) of other tortoises.
Left: During the rainy season the
giant tortoise prefers young grass
shoots.
WESTERN DIAMONDBACK "" CARD 22
RATTLESNAKE
'\ GROUP 3: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS
~ GENUS &: SPECIES
"'1IIIIIIII Crotalus atrox
The Western diamondback rattlesnake is one of the largest
poisonous snakes found in the United States. Its name comes from
the distinctive diamond-shaped pattern of scales on its back.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Average of 3 ft. Some
grow over 6 ft.
Weight: 1 -2 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 3-6 years.
Mating: Spring and fall.
Gestation: 3-4 months from
spring mating. The foJlowing
summer from autumn mating.
No. of young: 2-24, depending on
size of female.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary, but forms groups
with others to hibernate.
Range of the Western diamondback rattlesnake.
DISTRIBUTION
Diet: Small warm-blooded
mammals and birds. Young eat
frogs, toads, and lizards.
lifespan: Up to 20 years.
Found in the desert sand and semidesert grasslands of
southwestern North America, extending from California in
the west to Arkansas in the east.
RELATED SPECIES
30 related species are found
throughout North and South
America.
lj
CONSERVATION
The snake is not currently endangered, although a serious
decline in the population could occur if hunting is not
controlled.
FEATURES OF THE RATTLESNAKE
Venom: Large hollow fangs act like hypodermic needles.
They inject venom into prey when the snake strikes. Spare
fangs behind the main set spring forward if the front ones
are damaged.
Eyes: Vertical
pupils allow
maximum dil ation
for sharp vision.
Pit organs: Membranes located in pits between
eyes and nostrils. They are sensiti ve to
temperature changes, allowing the snake to
locate smail, warm-blooded animals nearby,
Forked tongue:
Fl icked in and out,
senses the air for
any trace of prey.
even in complete darkness. - --- - - - --f'-'+---'
0MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WI LDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A 0160200171 PACKET 17
The Western diamondback rattlesnake's
reputation as an aggressor is undeserved.
The snake is a peaceful reptile and is no threat to
people unless it is cornered or provoked.
When it is alarmed, it rattles its tail to
frighten off the intruder.

During cool months the
Western diamondback rat-
tlesnake is diurnal (active
during the day, when the sun
can warm its body). Through-
out the summer it is nocturnal,
or active at night, emerging
after dusk to hunt.
When the snake is not active
it spends its time in holes un-
derground, in rocky crevices,
or under dead cacti or large
boulders. In the coldest winter
weather 30 or more snakes
hibernate together in under-
ground dens.
The rattlesnake sheds its
skin three to four times a year.
Rival males test each other's
strength during an activity
that resembles a dance. But
the snakes never harm each
other.
r 19. . SPECIAL

The snake's rattle is made of
hard sections of old skin. A
new one is added each time
the snake sheds its skin. The
sections fit loosely over each
other in an interlocking series.
Once the snake is fully ma-
ture its rattle does not change
size. Older segments drop off
at the same rate as the new
ones develop.
-------
Above: The Western diamond-
back rattlesnake about to strike.
Right: A female gives birth.
P.Morris Photographics
FOOD & HUNTING
The rattlesnake can swallow
almost any small bird or mam-
mal. A three-foot-Iong rattle-
snake can easily swallow a half-
grown rabbit.
When hunting, the rattler
either waits under a bush for
prey to pass by or actively
searches for prey by investigat-
Mating takes place in March
and April. The female is ovo-
viviparous; that is, she pro-
duces eggs that are hatched
within her body so that the
young are born alive. This
protects them from extremes
of temperature before they
are hatched.
The young snakes inside
the mother are encased in a
membrane instead of in a
shell. If the membrane does
not burst when the young are
born, they must break
through it. They are born in
late July or early August.
ing burrows, crevices, and
vegetation. It hunts using a
combination of sight, smell,
and heat detection and can
locate warm-blooded prey in
total darkness.
The rattlesnake can also
detect vibrations made by
animals moving nearby.
RATTLESNAKE &
People have always regarded
the rattlesnake as a threat,
despite the fact that it bites
only if provoked.
Organized hunting groups
gather in some western states
every year. Huge numbers of
rattlesnakes are collected,
killed, and skinned. Many are
sold to be eaten.
Although the original pur-
pose of the hunting roundups
was to rid populated areas of
the dangerous snakes, the
events now attract collectors
who travel from all over the
world to participate in the
hunt.
DID YOU KNOW?
One species of rattlesnake
on Catalina Island off the
coast of California has no
rattle.
The longer the snake's
rattle, the quieter is its sound.
More people are bitten by
diamondback rattlesnakes
than any other North
American poisonous snake.
But the Mojave rattlesnake is
20 times more lethal.
More people in the United
States die each year from
lightning strikes than from
snake bites.
GECKO
""
,. ORDER
'11IIIIIIII Squamata
FAMILY
Gekkonidae
'" CARD 23
GROUP 3: REPTILES &:
" GENUS
'11IIIIIIII Various
The gecko family of lizards includes hundreds of species found in
rainforests, mountains, and even deserts. Many have unusual
markings, and some give distinctive calls.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 1-14 in.
BREEDING
Incubation: 6-10 weeks.
No. of eggs: Usually 2 per clutch.
May lay several clutches during
breeding season.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary. Some species
hibernate.
Diet: Insects, small birds, mice,
lizards, and fruit.
RELATED SPECIES
There are approximately 86 gen-
era and 800 species of geckos.
The gecko family is divided into
four subfamilies: Eublepharinae,
Diplodactylinae, Gekkoninae, and
Sphaerodactylinae. The Gekkoninae
subfamily is the largest, with more
than 550 species living all over the
world. It includes the Mediterra-
nean gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus.
FEATURES OF THE GECKO
Range of the gecko family.
DISTRIBUTION
Southern California, Florida, Mexico, Caribbean, South
America, Mediterranean coast, Africa, the Middle East,
Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Pacific islands.
CONSERVATION
Geckos are widespread, adaptable, and pose no threat to
humans. Most species are not endangered.
Skin: Thin, with small bumps or
scales. Color varies but is usually gray
or brown. Some species change color
as a mating display or for camouflage.
Eyes: Night-hunting
geckos have large pupils
that close to slits during
the day.
grows in its place.
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Feet: Most geckos have broad
toes covered with flaps of skin
.... containing thousands of tiny
bristles. Each bristle tip is a
ded spatula, so that the gecko
, rip tiny niches or smooth
surfaces such as a windowpane.
't: .
f
J. . , I

- ,... {:",I
0160200361 PACKET 36
Geckos have small, plump bodies with large heads
and eyes. Many species are vividly colored, and some
even change color. Because of geckos' unusual
appearance, some people think they are dangerous.
But these reptiles do not hurt humans.

Geckos live in a wide range
of habitats including tropical
rainforests, parched deserts,
and icy mountain peaks. They
are not afraid of humans, and
some species have expanded
their range by stowing away
on ships. For example, the
common gecko originated in
north Africa and was carried
unknowingly by humans to
Right: The
leopard gecko
lives in arid,
rocky parts of
Asia. Unlike
most other
geckos, it has
eyelids that
can close.
southern France, the Canary
Islands, and even islands in
the South Pacific.
In the Southwest some
geckos seem to prefer living
in houses to staying in their
natural habitat. At night the
lights attract so many insects
that all the gecko needs to do
is cling to the ceiling and wait
for prey to fly by.
FOOD & FEEDING
Most geckos hunt at night.
The common gecko eats
beetles, butterflies, millipedes,
crickets, and cockroaches.
Many larger species, such as
the Caledonian gecko, pursue
young lizards, mice, and small
birds. They track their prey
before pouncing. Then they
take it in their mouth and
strike it against the ground.
Some day-active geckos,
left: This gecko species lives in
the warm Solomon Islands in
the Pacific.
DID YOU KNOW?
The gecko Sphaerodactylus
parthenopion is only one
and a half inches long. It is
world's smallest reptile.
The tokay gecko gets its
name from one of its calls:
L ito-kay, to-kay."
such as those in Madagascar,
feed on fruit and flower nectar
The species Gehyra mutilata
eats so much sweet food that
it is called the sugar lizard.
The Madagascan leaf-tailed
gecko washes itself all over
with its tongue after every
meal. Another gecko in the
Seychelles rides on tortoises
and feeds on insects attracted
by the tortoises' feces.
Right: Web-footed geckos prey on
insects such as this dune cricket in
the Namib Desert.
Sometimes a gecko's tail
heals instead of breaking off
completely. A new one also
grows in, leaving the animal
with two or even three tails.
A gecko pounces on an
insect only if it moves. -'
SPECIAL ADAPTATIONS
Eyes: The pupils of night- during the day and yellow
active geckos enlarge to fill at night. The skin of the
their eyes and shrink to slits Madagascan leaf-tailed
during the day. gecko matches tree bark.
Color: Some geckos can Tail: The tail of a gecko may
change color. The banded break off if it is caught and
leaf-toed gecko is brown will later regrow.

Geckos' mating habits vary
greatly, but most include a
courtship ritual, such as
displaying bright skin colors
or uttering a distinct mating
call. For example, between
March and May the male
tokay gecko in southeast Asia
makes a barking sound that is
probably a mating call.
A male banded gecko ap-
proaches a prospective mate
with his legs bent and head
stretched forward. Wagging
his tail, he nuzzles her flanks
and licks her before mating.
Like most reptiles, the ma-
left: Geckos regularly shed their
skin. This process starts shortly
after they hatch.
jority of geckos lay eggs. The
female house gecko lays four
or five pairs of eggs between
May and August, with two to
four weeks between layings.
Gecko egg shells tend to be
soft at first but harden quick-
ly. They have a sticky coating
and are often stuck inside
cracks or under bark or stones.
It is not unusual to discover
clumps of eggs stuck together
if several females share a site.
The female southern dwarf
gecko has an unusual egg-
laying method. She strokes
and pulls the eggs free with
her hind legs. There are even
species in New Zealand that
bear live young.
Left: Like most
other geckos,
the ring-tailed
gecko has no
eyelids. It licks
its eyes to keep
them moist
and clean.
RED-AND-BLUE
POISON-ARROW FROG
'" CARD 24
" GROUP 3: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS ~
, , ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ORDER
Anura
FAMILY
Dendrobatidae
.... GENUS &: SPECIES
"1IIIIIIII Dendrobates pumilia
The red-and-blue poison-arrow frog's jewel-like color stands out
from the rich rainforest vegetation as a warning that it is one of
the most poisonous animals on earth.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 1 in. The biggest frog in
the family grows to 2 in.
BREEDING
Mating: During the tropical rainy
season.
No. of eggs: 4-6, laid on land.
Tadpole: Develops in flooded leaf
joints of plants and feeds on
unfertilized eggs.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Lives on forest floor and
among trees.
Diet: Small insects such as ants
and spiders.
lifespan: Unknown.
RELATED SPECIES
Of the 116 species in the family,
55 are brightly colored poisonous
Dendrobates and Phyllabates
species. These include the golden
poison-arrow frog, Dendrobates
auratus, and the deadly Phyllabates
terribilis.
Range of poison-arrow frogs. Red-and-blue species.
DISTRIBUTION
The red-and-blue poison-arrow frog lives in the Costa Rican
rainforests. Other species occur throughout tropical South
America from Costa Rica to southern Brazil.
CONSERVATION
Although the poison-arrow frog is collected both for its
poison and for the pet trade, the destruction of its forest
habitat threatens its future.
HOW THE RED-AND-BlUE POIS,, ,""' ---
FROG REARS
~ - - - ' - - -
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Young: Regularly fed unfertil-
ized eggs by the female. The
frog climbs out of the plant
when fully grown.
0160200251 PACKET 25
For centuries, the poison-arrow frog
has provided South American
Indians with poison for the tips of arrows and
blowpipe darts. For predators,
swallowing a frog means certain death,
and even licking one can prove fatal.

Like all amphibians, poison-
arrow frogs must stay moist
to survive. The red-and-blue
species lives in Costa Rican
rainforests. The constantly
steamy, wet environment
reduces the frog's need for
streams and pools.
It forages through the rain-
soaked leaves and vegetation
for small insects such as ants
and spiders. The poison-
arrow frog moves in short
hops and rarely stays still.
Adhesive pads on its toes
allow it to climb agilely to
search for prey.
DEFENSES
Some frogs protect them-
selves from larger predators
such as snakes and hawks by
secreting mild poisons from
the skin to make themselves
taste foul.
The poison-arrow also uses
this tactic, but its skin gland
secretions are lethal. A pred-
ator faces certain death if it
swallows a poison-arrow frog,
and even licking one can
often prove fatal.
These frog poisons are the
most powerful animal poisons
known. As little as two
micrograms of its poison can

Many frogs lay large quantities
of eggs in water and leave
them alone. Fish eat the newly
hatched tadpoles, and few
survive to develop into adult
frogs. The poison-arrow frog
breeds in a different way that
ensures the tadpoles' survival.
After a courtship ritual of call-
ing, chasing, and wrestling,
the female lays four to six
eggs. The male then fertilizes
the eggs.
The newly hatched tadpoles
climb onto the female's back,
and she carries them to the
water. Sticky mucus holds the
tadpoles on tight and keeps
them moist during the several-
hour journey.
Instead of a pond or stream,
the red-and-blue mother
places her tadpoles in tiny
condensation pools in the,
centers of tropical plants.
The female puts one tadpole
Left: The newly hatched young
attach themselves to the female's
moist back.
kill an adult human-and
each frog contains nearly 200
micrograms. The dangerous
levels of poison are lower in
the red-and-blue species, but
it still is lethal.
Because the poison-arrow
frog is too small to be seen
by some animals, its brightly
colored skin makes it more
noticeable and acts as a
warning to predators that the
frog is deadly prey. Conse-
quently, fewer frogs are
eaten during the day, when
predators can recognize
them as dangerous.
in each plant, feeding them
each week by placing unfertil-
ized eggs in the pools. Fed on
this nutritious food, the tad-
poles grow into adulthood.
Above: Males wrestle for mates;
their poison is for predators.
Below: Its vocal sac fully
extended, a poison-arrow frog
croaks a territorial claim.
POISON-ARROW FROG &: MAN
The Choco Indians of western
Colombia developed the
technique of using this frog
to poison the tips of arrows
or blowpipe darts.
The Choco use poison from
three species. With the dead-
liest frogs, the tribesmen pin
a frog to the ground with a
stick and wipe their arrow-
heads on its skin. Less poi-
sonous species are warmed
over fires on skewers to
make them excrete large
DID YOU KNOW?
Only one natural pred-
ator may hunt the poison-
arrow frog: the snake
Leimadophis epinephe/us
seems to be immune to
the toxins.
This family includes
some of the smallest frogs
in the world: Dendrobates
minutus grows to only a
half inch.
Scientists discover new
species of poison-arrow
continually in their tropi-
cal forest explorations.
Still, their habitat may be
destroyed before scientists
can account for them.
quantities of poison, which is
concentrated for use.
Today the Choco use poison
darts or arrows for hunting
small game, but in the past
they were used in wars with
other tribes in the forest.
"" CARD 25
SNAKE-NECKED TURTLE
______________________ __
... ORDER FAMILY '" GENUS &: SPECIES
"11IIIIIIII Chelonia (Testudines) Chelidae "11IIIIIIII Chelodina longicol/is
The snake-necked turtle is Australia's most widespread and
well-known freshwater turtle. Exclusively meat eating, it hunts
in many still and slow-flowing waters.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Shell, up to 11 in.
Extended head and neck, 5
1
/2 in.
Weight: Average 2
1
/ 2 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: Male, 7 years.
Female, 10-11 years.
Mating season: September to
October.
Nesting season: November to
December; occasionally January.
No. of eggs: 6-24.
Incubation: 1 30-1 70 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Both water and land.
Migrates over land in groups.
Diet: Amphibians, crustaceans,
worms, insects, and mollusks.
Lifespan: 17-50 years.
RELATED SPECIES
There are 36 species of turtle
grouped into 9 genera within the
family Chelidae.
Range of the snake-necked turtle.
DISTRIBUTION
Widespread in slow-moving waters in eastern Austral ia,
from southern South Austral ia to northern Queensland.
CONSERVATION
This species is still common, but it has been widely
trapped. Many turtles have been killed by fishermen and
vehicles and as a result of losing access to water.
FEATURES OF THE SNAKE-NECKED
There are two suborders of turtle: the
side-necked and the hidden-necked
turtles. They are distinguished by their i
Neck: Provides
excellent vision
because of turtle's
ability to move head
freely. Can be coiled
like a spring for
seizing prey.
neck and head movements. The snake-
necked turtle belongs to the side-
necked turtles (Testudines) found in
Australia and South America.
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The snake-necked turtle is also known in Australia as
the long-necked turtle. When fully extended, its head
and neck are more than half the length of its shell.
The snake-necked turtle belongs to a family whose
turtles fold their heads and necks along the sides of
their shells rather than pulling them in.
The snake-necked turtle is com-
monly seen both in and out of
water. Streams, rivers, swamps,
and lagoons are its favorite
habitats. It prefers slow-moving,
often muddy water, but it can
occasionally be seen crossing
small rapids, looking for food.
The seasonal drop in tempera-
ture in the southern part of the
snake-necked turtle's range
sends many turtles into hiberna-
tion underwater or on dry land.
This species is known for its
ability to colonize new, artificial
ponds, usually within about two
~ FOOD & HUNTING
The snake-necked turtle is a car-
nivore (meat eater). It hunts ac-
tively during the day for a variety
of aquatic invertebrates such as
shrimp, insect larvae, crayfish,
and mollusks, as well as for frogs.
The turtle's long, sinuous neck is
critical to its ability to catch prey.
years. Also, groups of snake-
necked turtles are frequently seen
far from the water's edge. The
turtle often takes a rambling path
over dry land, readily changing
direction to move around any
barrier. But as soon as it sights
water, it heads straight for it.
Once the turtle is within reach
of prey, it draws its neck back
into an S shape and then springs
it forward. Underwater, instead
of striking the prey, the turtle
brings its head to a sudden halt
alongside the creature and
opens its mouth wide. Water
~ BREEDING
Mating takes place underwater,
with the male swimming closely
behind the female until he can
rest his chin on her shell. He then
moves forward and mounts,
clasping the edge of the female's
shell with his forefeet and tuck-
ing his tail beneath hers.
Two months later, the female
prepares a nest on land by dig-
ging a hole in sandy, sparsely
vegetated soil. She chooses a
slope from which rainwater can
drain easily, for even a few hours
of soaking will kill the unborn
hatchlings. She lays and arranges
the eggs and scoops the soil
back over them.
The young turtles may not
emerge for six months. They im-
mediately go into the water.
Left: The turtle is an aggressive,
agile hunter. It uses both stealth
and the strike of its coiled neck to
grab its prey.
Below:' Adults use a strong-smelling
fluid to discourage predators.
rushes into the turtle's mouth,
pulling the prey along with it.
The turtle then partially closes its
mouth, forcing the water back
out, but leaving the prey behind.
The snake-necked turtle does
not have powerful jaws for biting
prey. Instead, the reptile appears
~ PREDATORS
Many young turtles fail to
hatch because their nests are
raided by animals. The hatch-
lings are vulnerable as they
journey to the water; and they
face attack from fish and water
birds when they arrive.
Adults have fewer predators
because of their size and pro-
tective shells. But pelicans,
storks, dingoes (Australian wild
dogs), and birds of prey have
been known to attack them.
to kill and dismember large prey
in its throat with a rubbing ac-
tion of its front legs. It uses the
same movement to position
food for swallowing.
Below: Few young turtles ever
hatch because the eggs are eaten
by water rats and goannas.
DID YOU KNOW?
The snake-necked turtle can
breathe while resting on the
bottom of shallow water: it
stretches its long neck up and
pokes its head above the sur-
face.
This turtle's eyes are set un-
usually far forward. The result-
ing accurate vision is vital for
striking at the right spot.
The snake-necked turtle is
sometimes called the "stinker"
because of the strong-smelling
liquid that it produces when
caught. It can spray this fluid
as far as three feet.
Western scientists first
learned about the snake-
necked turtle from Sir Joseph
Banks. He collected a speci-
men during Captain Cook's
voyage to Australia in 1770.
AUSTRALIAN
FRILLED LIZARD
CLASS
Reptilia
SUBORDER
Sauria (Lacertilia)
GROUP 3: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS
.. FAMILY
~ Agamidae
... GENUS
~ Chlamydosaurus
The Australian frilled lizard usually keeps its colorful frilled
ruff folded flat against its long neck, but it will suddenly raise
it during courtship or when threatened.
KEY FACTS
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~
SIZES
Length: 1
1
/2- 3 ft.
Ruff diameter: 8-10 in .
Weight: Up to 1 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 2-3 years.
Breeding season: Early spring.
No. of eggs: 2-8.
Incubation: 8-12 weeks.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Mostly solitary. Defends
territory against rivals. No
parental care of young.
Diet: Insects, spiders, small
mammals.
Lifespan: About 8-1 0 years in
captivity. Not known in the wild.
RELATED SPECIES
There are 300 species of chisel-
toothed lizard; 65 in Australia.
These include the thorny devil,
Moloch horridus, and the eastern
water dragon, Physignathus
lesueurii.
Range of the Australian frilled lizard.
DISTRIBUTION
The Australian frilled li zard lives throughout northern and
northwestern Australi a and in Papua New Guinea.
CONSERVATION
The Australian fri lled lizard is currently in no danger of
extinction.
THE AUSTRALIAN FRILLED LIZARD'S RUFF
The scaly ruff is patterned to blend
with the lizard's habitat and may be
entirely or partly serrated (notched).
When startled, the lizard spreads its
ruff, opens its mouth wide, hisses,
and flicks its tail from side to side.
The frilled ruff folds neatly under-
neath and against the sides of
the neck.
As it spreads, the ruff opens out
in a series of long pleats.
0 MCMXCIIMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200321 PACKET 32
The frilled lizard is a tree dweller of
northern Australia and Papua New Guinea.
When it raises its spectacular ruff, it transforms
itself into one of the most colorful of all the
Australian lizards. On the ground it is
exceptionally fast-moving. Most of the
time it runs upright on its hind legs.
~ BEHAVIOR
Like most lizards, the Austra-
lian frilled lizard is active dur-
ing the day, relying on the
sun to warm its blood so it
can feed and move quickly.
Spiny scales covering its body
help reduce water loss.
This lizard lives in trees, ly-
ing on branches and basking
in the sun. Its long, slim fore-
legs and enlarged hind legs
allow it to stretch to reach
another branch, or to jump
from one branch to another,
as well as walk upright on the
ground. Unlike other lizards
it does not shed its tail easily.
If threatened by a preda-
tor, the frilled lizard quickly
erects its frill-like ruff to make
itself look larger and more
intimidating. When fully
spread, the frill can measure
up to 10 inches across. It has
a colorful scaled pattern. This
pattern varies depending
upon the lizard's habitat. In
Queensland it is usually
yellow with black and white
markings. In the Northern
~ FOOD &: HUNTING
Insects, spiders, and small
mammals are the main diet
of the frilled lizard. Few lizards
are herbivores (plant eaters).
The frilled lizard is itself prey
for birds, larger lizards, snakes,
and some mammals.
Below: With its ruff raised and
long tail whipping, this lizard is
a frightening foe.
Territory it is more likely to be
orange with red, black, and
white speckles.
The serrated (notched) ruff
acts like a solar panel and ab-
sorbs heat from the sun. The
ruff folds flat below and on
either side of the head. A ser-
ies of cartilage rods raises it.
When the lizard raises its
ruff, it also stands upright on
its hind legs and hisses with
its yellow mouth wide open
and its long, slender tail
flicking from side to side.
~ BREEDING
The male Australian frilled
lizard is territorial and aggres-
sive toward other males or
rivals. The larger males hold
the bigger territories.
The frilled lizard is one of
many species of chisel-
toothed lizard that perform
elaborate courtships. The
male always courts the fe-
male. He needs only a brief
signal from her to know that
she is receptive to mating.
The female's eggs are
fertilized internally. They nor-
mally hatch in 8 to 12 weeks.
Once the female chooses a
hatching spot, she lays her
eggs and leaves. The frilled
lizard is independent at birth.
Right: With its ruff flattened, the
lizard blends with the color and
texture of tree bark.
DID YOU KNOW?
A likeness of the frilled
lizard is on Australia' s two-
cent coin.
The frilled lizard's hind
footprints show only the
three middle toes. They
look similar to those of birds
and some extinct dinosaurs.
The f rilled lizard's teeth
are fixed to the surfaces of
its jaws and look similar t o
human teeth.
Another tree-living
Australian lizard is the
common goanna, which
grows to about seven feet
in length. The abori gines
believe t hat a goanna bite
will never heal.
The f rilled lizard is often
kept as a pet.
DIAMONDBACK TERRAPIN
ORDER
Chelonia
FAMILY
Emydidae
GROUP 3: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS
GENUS &: SPECIES
Malaclemys terrapin
In the past the diamondback terrapin was almost hunted to
extinction for its meat. Today, protective measures and commercial
farms make its distinctive shell a more common sight.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Male, 4-6 in. Female,
6-9 in.
Weight: Up to 2 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: Female, about
7 years. Male may be slightly
older.
Mating season: Early spring.
No. of eggs: 7-24 white eggs per
clutch. Up to 5 clutches per year
laid by large, mature female.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary.
Diet: Fish, crustaceans, mollusks,
and insects.
lifespan: About 30 years in the
wi ld; 50-70 years in captivity.
RELATED SPECIES
There are 7 subspecies of diamond-
back terrapin. Ten species of map
turtles Graptemys are also related.
Range of the diamondback terrapin.
- - ~ ~ = = = = = = ~ - -
DISTRIBUTION
Found in salt and brackish water along the Atlantic coast of
North America from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico
and Mexico.
CONSERVATION
Humans have been the terrapin's main predators. Its popu-
lation has been increasing as a result of protective measures
and commercial farms where terrapins are raised for their meat.
FEATURES OF THE DIAMONDBACK- Shell: Wider at the back than the
front. Distinctive patterns with
diamond shapes made up of ridges
TERRAPIN
Hind limbs:
Strong, muscular,
and webbed.
Adapted for fast
swimming.
Head: Powerful jaws and a
sharp, horny beak that is used
to tear prey into small pieces.
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
::--___ _ and grooves.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Shell coloration: Varies between
individuals of the same subspecies.
Some diamondback terrapins have
dark ri ngs on light gray or brown
shells. Others have solid dark brown
or black shells.
0160200381 PACKET 38
The diamondback terrapin gets its name from
the diamond-shaped patterns on its carapace, or
upper shell. Some shells also have strongly
contrasting light and dark colors that accentuate
these patterns. Black dots speckle the terrapin's
yellowish head, legs, and lower shell, or plastron.
"IIIIIIIIIIIII HABITS
Although the diamondback
terrapin belongs to the family
of Emydidae freshwater turtles,
it actually lives in salt or brack-
ish water near the coast. A
diamondback terrapin living in
a river usually stays near the
mouth. It only travels upriver
with the tide.
The diamondback terrapin
spends most of the day in the
water. It floats with its shell
down, so only its snout can be
seen above the water. It keeps
its body steady by paddling
slowly with its webbed hind
feet. When necessary, it uses its
powerful legs to swim quickly.
During the hottest parts of the
day, the terrapin lies on nearby
rocks and basks in the sun for
short periods. At night it buries
itself in mud.
In northern regions the
diamondback terrapin digs
itself into wet mud to hiber-
nate during the winter. It
does not hibernate for a spe-
cific period of time and often
emerges during milder win-
ter weather to build up its fat
reserves. If the weather be-
comes colder, it digs itself
back into the mud.
Above: The diamondback ter-
rapin's shell varies greatly in size.
The shell of the female may be
twice as large as the male's shell.
Above right: The diamondback
terrapin basks in the sun during
the heat of the day. At night it
buries itself in mud, where it
remains until morning.
"IIIIIIIIIIIII FOOD & HUNTING
Instead of teeth, the dia-
mondback terrapin has a
strong, horny beak with a
sharp cutting edge. It uses its
powerful jaw muscles to tear
and cut its prey into small
pieces. Small prey like aquatic
insects are swallowed whole.
The terrapin eats small fish,
crustaceans, mollusks, insects,
worms, and sometimes green
water plants.
Most marine turtles can
drink seawater because their
bodies excrete the salt. But
the diamondback terrapin
can only drink fresh water.
DID YOU KNOW?
The name terrapin comes In the 18th century the
from a Native American word diamondback terrapin was a
meaning "little turtle." cheap source of food for
A diamondback terrapin slaves. In the late 19th cen-
held captive in fresh water tury terrapin meat was con-
will develop a skin fungus. sidered a delicacy. By the
When salt is added to the early 20th century diamond-
water, the fungus disappears. back terrapins were sold for
~ - - - - - - - - ~ ~ - - ~ ~ - - - - - - - - - - -
"IIIIIIIIIIIII BREEDING
Most information about the
mating and breeding habits of
the diamondback terrapin has
been gathered at commercial
farms. Terrapins are bred at
these farms for their meat.
Mating occurs in spring
when the temperature be-
comes warmer. Temperature is
thought to be the main factor
in the onset of mating.
In early summer the female
chooses a suitable nesting site
just above the high water
Left: A terrapin hatchling is only
an inch long when it emerges
from its shell.
as much as $120 a dozen.
A female diamondback
terrapin can lay fertile eggs
for several years after a single
mating. This feat is made
possible by her ability to
store live sperm that is later
used to fertilize eggs.
mark. Then she digs a hole
with her hind legs about a foot
deep. She lays 7 to 24 white
eggs and covers them with
mud and sand. The laying
season varies with the location.
Depending on her age and
size, the female may lay as
many as five clutches per year.
Hatching occurs about 90
days later. Hatchlings are
more brightly colored than
adults_ Females are ready to
breed when they are about
seven years old, but some
males may be older before
reaching sexual maturity.
"' CARD 28
ANACONDA
_____________________
ORDER
Squamata
FAMILY
Boidae
GENUS &: SPECIES
Eunectes murinus
The anaconda is the biggest snake in the world, even larger than
the Old World python. Yet despite its size and strength, it
has few defenses against humans-its main enemy.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Usually up to 16 ft., but
snakes over 33 ft. long recorded.
Weight: Up to 550 lb., possibly
more.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 3-4 years.
Mating: Tropical rainy season.
No. of young: 20-40, occa-
sionally up to 60. Born live.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary, but can form
small groups. Active at night.
Diet: Large rodents, wild pigs,
deer, birds, fish, and aquatic
reptiles.
RELATED SPECIES
There are at least two species of
anaconda: the green anaconda,
Eunectes murinus, and the yel-
low anaconda, E. notaeus. Both
belong to the boa family, which
includes the boa constrictor.
Range of the anaconda.
DISTRIBUTION
The green anaconda is found throughout the basins of the
Amazon and Orinoco rivers in tropical South America. The
yellow anaconda ranges as far south as Argentina.
CONSERVATION
The anaconda is threatened by deforestation of its habitat
and hunting for its skin. It seldom lives long enough to reach
the record sizes reported in the past.
FEATURES OF THE ANACONDA
Camouflage: Black patches on
the anaconda's back combine with
dull background color to blend in
with the thick, wet
vegetation of its
habitat.
Length: The yellow anaconda grows
to a maximum of 16 feet. The green
anaconda can reach 33 feet and
possibly more.
Nostrils: Like the crocodile, the
anaconda's nostrils are on top of its
snout so it can breathe easily while
it is swimming.
Weight: The heaviest of all snakes,
the anaconda is more comfortable
swimming than dragging its bulk
on land.
MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A.
WAITING FOR PREY
The anaconda lies coiled in the
shallows of a forest stream or
pool and waits for prey such as a
large rodentto come and drink. It
occasionally preys on jaguars but
never attacks humans, even from
the water. If the anaconda senses
the presence of humans, it quietly
glides away.
0160200411 PACKET 41
A larger version of the boa constrictor,
the anaconda is a massive snake that kills its prey
by squeezing it to death in its powerful coils.
It then swallows its victim whole. Although it has
an appetite for prey as large as wild pigs and deer,
the huge anaconda is capable of surviving for
months and even years without food.

The abundant streams, rivers,
swamps, and pools of the
tropical rainforests of Ama-
zonia provide an ideal habitat
for the anaconda.
This heavy snake is more at
home in the water than on
land, and it swims with grace
and agility. It can stay sub-
merged for over 10 minutes at
a time and often lies beneath
the surface waiting for prey.
The anaconda lets itself be
carried downstream on the
river's current with only its
head breaking the surface.
Then it drifts to the bank and
glides away into the thick
undergrowth.
The anaconda usually hunts
at night. It spends the day
lying in the shallows or bask-
ing in the sun, draped over
the branches of a tree at the
water's edge. Like most snakes,
it can climb well and it uses
trees for refuge from preda-
tors. Only the most powerful
predator, however, can subdue
a full-grown anaconda.
Right: The anaconda may sleep
for days while it digests its prey.
FOOD & HUNTING
The anaconda preys on deer,
wild pigs, and large rodents
such as the agouti, paca, and
capybara. It also attacks aqua-
tic animals like the caiman, a
relative of the alligator.
The anaconda lies in a murky
pool to ambush animals com-
ing to drink. It seizes its prey
quickly with its sharp teeth and
drags it into the water.
The victim often drowns be-
fore it is killed. Like all boas,
the anaconda kills by constric-
tion, coiling itself afound the
Left: Slow on land, the ana-
conda is quick and deadly in
the water.
DID YOU KNOW?
The anaconda has been
known to attack jaguars, and
a 26-foot anaconda was re-
ported to have killed a six-
and-a-half-foot caiman.
When kept out of the wa-
ter, an anaconda's body be-
comes infested with ticks.
In captivity the anaconda
prey and squeezing. The snake
squeezes tighter each time
the animal breathes out so it
cannot breathe in again. It
quickly dies from suffocation.
The anaconda swallows its
victims whole. It can stretch its
mouth around prey twice the
width of its head because its
jawbones are loosely attached
to its skull and to each other.
After a large meal, the ana-
conda sleeps for several days
as it digests and may not feed
again for weeks.
Above right and right: The
anaconda kills its varied prey by
one method-constriction.
can go without food for
months. One captive snake
fasted for over two years.
The heaviest of snakes, a
20-foot anaconda weighs
more than a 33-foot python.
There have been reports of
1 30-foot anacondas, but
they have not been proven.

The anaconda is normally soli-
tary with its own fixed hunting
area. But at the onset of the
rainy season each female in
breeding condition gives off a
scent known as a pheromone,
which is picked up by a nearby
male. He makes his way toward
the female, with his forked
tongue flicking as he follows
the scent trail.
During courtship the male
presses his body to the female's.
With his tongue still flicking, he
works his way up until his head
is resting on her neck. He then
erects his spurs, a pair of tiny
hind limbs whose use in mating
is unique' to boas and pythons.
The male uses them to tickle
the female's vent region, en-
couraging her to mate.
Most snakes lay eggs, but
the anaconda gives birth to live
young. The female usually pro-
duces 20 to 40 young, each
about two feet long. Within
hours of birth young snakes can
swim, hunt, and care for them-
selves. They feed mainly on
frogs and fish until they are big
enough to tackle larger prey.
"' CARD 29
GILA MONSTER
' ( ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
~
CLASS
Reptilia
ORDER
Squamata Helodermatidae Heloderma suspectum
The Gila monster is one of only two lizards in the world that have
a venomous bite. Its bite, combined with its ferocious appearance,
give it a fearsome reputation that its habits barely match.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 1 ~ - 2 ft.
Weight: 3-5 lb.
BREEDING
Mating season: June to July.
Eggs: 3-13.
Incubation: About 4 months.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary, burrowing. Ground-
dwelling and active at night.
Diet: Rodents, birds and their
young, eggs, lizards, frogs, large
invertebrates. Occasionally feeds on
carrion and small mammals.
Lifespan: Up to 20 years in
captivity.
RELATED SPECIES
The Mexican beaded lizard,
Heloderma horridum, is the
other member of the family
Helodermatidae and the only
other venomous lizard. It is larg-
er than the Gila monster.
Range of the Gila monster.
DISTRIBUTION
Found in northwestern Mexico and the southwestern United
States, including parts of Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah,
and New Mexico.
CONSERVATION
The Gila monster is threatened because its habitat is being taken
over by farming. It has also been caught in large numbers for
the pet trade but is now protected by law in Arizona.
FEATURES OF THE GILA MONSTER
Body: Squat and heavy with a large head.
Skin: Has a granular surface. Texture and color
provide excellent camouflage among the desert
sand and pebbles.
Tongue: The Gila
monster flicks out its
thick, forked tongue to
pick up scents. They
are conveyed to a
special taste organ,
called Jacobsen's organ,
in the roof of its mouth.
MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILpM
Claws: Short but sharp. The
Gila monster is well
equipped for digging up
the eggs of tortoises,
snakes, and lizards and
for digging its own burrows
and egg-laying holes.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Tail : The short, thick tail
contains a fat store that
enables the Gila monster to
survive periods without food.
0160200431 PACKET 43
The Gila monster roams the desert of the
American Southwest and nearby Mexico at twilight.
As it heaves its heavy body across the sand
and rocks, it flicks its tongue in search of prey.
Although it can kill relatively large mammals
and birds, this slow-moving lizard eats mostly
insects, eggs, and newly hatched birds.
~ H A B I T S
The Gila monster inhabits arid
and semiarid parts of north-
ern Mexico and the American
Southwest. It prefers areas
that get just enough moisture
to support a few shrubs.
The Gila monster is inactive
much of the time, hiding un-
der rocks and in burrows. It
excavates burrows or takes
them from rodents. In winter
the Gira- monster lies dormant
in a burrow and lives on fat
deposits in its tail. In summer
it avoids the heat by coming
out only at twilight. It moves
sluggishly and tastes the air
with its thick, forked tongue
to assess its surroundings.
If danger threatens, the Gila
monster usually escapes into
its burrow. If cornered, it in-
flates its body, lifts its head,
and hisses. It may then lunge
sideways and bite its enemy.
Right: The Gila monster's body is
covered with beadlike scales of
black and yellow or pink.
~ FOOD &: HUNTING
When hunting, the Gila mon-
ster relies on its senses of taste
and smell rather than its eyes.
When it detects the aroma of
prey, the Gila monster tracks it
across the desert. As it moves,
it flicks out its forked tongue to
taste the scent particles that
have been left on the ground.
Because it moves slowly, the
Gila monster must snatch un-
aware animals with its sharp
teeth or catch prey that
cannot escape easily. Its victims
include birds' eggs and nest-
lings as well as rodents, frogs,
Left: The Gila monster tracks
prey by tasting scent trails on
the ground with its tongue.
DID YOU KNOW?
A few people have died
from being bitten by a Gila
monster, but they were al-
ready in poor health.
It has been reported that
the Gila monster may flip
over while its jaws are still
clamped on to prey. This
move may help its venom
flow into the wound.
lizards, insects, centipedes, and
worms. The Gila monster also
feeds on carrion (the remains
of dead animals). It swallows
most prey whole but usually
breaks eggs to eat the contents.
The Gila monster's bite
contains poison that attacks
the nervous system of its prey.
The venom is strong enough
to kill mammals and birds, but
it does not seem to be impor-
tant for hunting. Most of the
Gila monster's victims are
small enough to be subdued
with its jaws and teeth. The
venom may be more useful to
the Gila monster as a defense
against its enemies.
Many myths surround the
Gila monster. It has been said
to possess magical powers
and to be impossible to kill.
Few animals have been
known to kill a Gila monster
in the wild, but a snake has
been seen preying on one.
The Gila monster is named
for the Gila Basin in Arizona.
Above: The
Gila monster
may break into
rodents' nests
to seize both
young and
adults. It can
swallow a
mouse whole.
~ BREEDING
Mating is a slow process that
lasts up to an hour and usually
occurs in early summer. Later
in the year, the female Gila
monster lays a batch of large,
oval leathery eggs in a hole she
has dug with her forefeet. She
then covers them with sand.
The eggs lie about five inches
under the surface, and the sun
heating the sand warms them.
After about four months the
young break free from their
shells and crawl to the surface.
They are only four inches long.
Their coloring is usually more
vivid than that of the adults.
Above: The female Gila monster
lays her eggs in a hole in the sand
and leaves them to incubate.
Ia... SPECIAL ADAPTATIONS
Most venomous reptiles in-
ject their venom into prey.
But the Gila monster lets its
poison flow into the wound it
has made. Its poison glands
are modified salivary glands.
When the lizard bites, the
glands empty their poison
into a fleshy groove. The
venom runs into grooves on
the lizard's teeth and into the
wound through the bite.
The Gila monster bites very
hard, almost half an inch
deep. It hangs on with its
viselike jaws to let the venom
flow in. It may chew to tear
the flesh so the venom pene-
trates still further.
People who have been bit-
ten by a Gila monster suffer
great pain but rarely die. The
main problem is forcing t he
lizard to release its grip.
'" CARD 30
MUDPUPPY
,, _______________________ G_R_O_U_P_3_:_R_EP_T_IL_E_S_N __ A_M_P_H_IB_IA __ N _ S _ " ~
~
CLASS
Amphibia
ORDER
Caudata
.... FAMILY
~ Proteidae
.... GENUS & SPECIES
~ Necturu5 maculo5u5
The mudpuppy is a remarkable North American salamander whose
lifecycle is entirely aquatic. It lurks on the bottoms of rivers,
lakes, and ponds, out of the sight of most humans.
KEY FACTS
SIZE
Length: 8-13 in .
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 5-7 years.
Mating: Late summer to fall.
No. of eggs: Usually 30-200, with
extremes of 18-880.
Hatching: 5-9 weeks, depending
on temperature.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Night-active, but generally
sedentary.
Diet: Small fish and their eggs, in-
sects, and invertebrates.
Lifespan: Up to 20 years.
RELATED SPECIES
There are 4 other species in the
genus Necturu5, all called water-
dogs. Each species is confined to a
few rivers along the coast of the
southeastern United States. They
are all closely related to the olm,
Proteu5 anguinu5, of southeastern
Europe.
Range of the mudpuppy.
DISTRIBUTION
The range of the mudpuppy extends across eastern North
America into the Midwest.
CONSERVATION
The number of mud puppies is difficult to measure, but they
seem to be in decline due to habitat destruction. The mudpup-
py is less threatened than its European relative, the olm.
FEATURES OF THE MUDPUPPY
carry essential
oxygen to the
blood. The gills
are bigger if the
mudpuppy lives in
dirty water.
Coloring: Khaki with blue-black
spots. Provides camouflage in debris
on the bottom of a lake, pond, or riv-
er, particularly in murky water.
MCMXCVI IMP BV/IMP INC. WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
Tail: Large, blade-shaped, and
strong. Propels the mudpuppy
when it swims.
Legs: Stubby and not very powerful.
Each foot has 4 toes. The legs enable
the mudpuppy to crawl , but it moves
mostly by swimming.
PRINTED IN U.S.A. US P 6001 12054 PACKET 54
The mudpuppy has a thoroughly misleading name.
Although the first part of its name suggests that it lives
in mud, this sluggish amphibian is just as likely to
live in clear water. Given the second part of its name,
one might expect the mudpuppy to bark, but
it does not-although it may whine if taken
from the safety of its underwater home.
~ CHARACTERISTICS
The mudpuppy lives in shel-
tered pockets amid rocks or
debris in lakes and rivers in the
eastern half of North America.
The adult is darkly colored with
well -spaced blue-black spots
to provide camouflage. A dark
stripe runs through its eyes, and
it has a spotted, grayish belly.
The adult mudpuppy retains
the bushy external gills of the
larval stage. The deep maroon
gills are arranged in three pairs
that protrude from the back of
the head. Their shape and size
vary, depending on the mud-
puppy's environment. In warm,
stagnant water, the gills are
large and bushy and kept con-
stantly in motion. But in cool
water that contains plenty of
oxygen, the gills are small and
contracted. The mudpuppy
apparently needs a high level
of oxygen to thrive.
The mudpuppy has a range
of only 650 feet, and it seldom
moves far from its home on the
bed of a lake or river. Although
it has four legs with four toes on
each, its legs are short and weak,
suitable only for crawling over
the mud. The mudpuppy moves
faster by swimming with its legs
held out of the way, against the
sides of its body.
~ FOOD &: FEEDING
The mudpuppy's coloring pro-
vides effective camouflage, so
it is able to survive as a passive
predator, lying in wait for the
current to bring it small fish, fish
eggs, aquatic insects, mollusks,
and crustaceans.
Crayfish are a mainstay of the
mudpuppy's diet. In the Missis-
sippi Valley, the mud puppy as-
sists farmers in controlling these
crustaceans, which graze on rice
crops and damage them. But
Left: The mudpuppy mates in late
summer, but it does not lay eggs
until the next spring.
the mud puppy is less popular
with fishermen, who use cray-
fish as bait.
The mudpuppy is primarily a
nocturnal predator, although it
may emerge to feed during the
day. It is most likely to do this if
its habitat is muddy or choked
with weeds, so that it can re-
main hidden. Usually, the mud-
puppy spends the day hiding
under stones or lying buried in
the mud of the lake bed.
Right: Although its tiny legs allow
the mudpuppy to crawl, it usually
moves by swimming.
Left: The mud-
puppy's fine
gills let it ex-
tract vital oxy-
gen from even
stagnant water.
In clean water,
which is high
in oxygen, the
gills are small
and move less
frequently.
DID YOU KNOW?
The mudpuppy's ugly ap-
pearance has led to the belief
that it is poisonous. It does
have poison glands in its skin,
but the toxin is not strong
enough to affect humans.
It is thought that the mud-
puppy can disentangle the fil-
aments of its gills by using one
of its forefeet as a "comb."
~ BREEDING
The mudpuppy follows a de-
layed spawning pattern. Mating
occurs in late summer or early
fall, before the adults enter their
dormant winter state. The fe-
male does not lay her yellowish
eggs until spring. Depending on
her size, she lays from 20 to over
200 eggs at a time. The female
attaches each egg, encased in a
tiny jelly envelope, to the under-
sides of rocks or debris. A sandy
hollow in the riverbed may also
serve as a nest.
During the five to nine weeks
Left: The mudpuppy larva has gills,
which it retains as an adult, unlike
most salamanders.
Mudpuppies can withstand
great drops in temperature.
Many mudpuppies have been
sighted crawling under the ice
of frozen lakes.
Mudpuppies established
themselves in New England
when unused laboratory spec-
imens were turned loose sev-
eral decades ago.
it takes the eggs to hatch, the
mother keeps a close guard on
them-unusual behavior for an
amphibian. Although she looks
harmless, the female can give a
sharp nip if threatened.
The young hatch with the
yolk sac still attached to their
undersides. The yolk nourishes
them for about two months,
until they are about an inch
and a half long and can feed
themselves. The young are
born with the species' charac-
teristic bladelike tail and hori-
zontally flattened head. They
quickly build up the robust
body shape of the adult.