Reptiles and amphibians abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?

What are reptiles?

• Reptiles are cold-blooded vertebrates. Because they are cold-blooded, they cannot live in areas that are cold year-round, such as mountain peaks and polar regions. In temperate zones with cold winters, they often go into hibernation.
• Most reptiles lay eggs, have scaly skin, and feed primarily on meat.
• There is a wide variety of reptiles: more than 11,700 species.
• The best-known groups of reptiles are snakes, turtles, lizards, and crocodiles.

What are amphibians?

• Like reptiles, amphibians are cold-blooded vertebrates. Instead of scales, they usually have smooth skin with many glands.
• After hatching from an egg, amphibians go through a larval stage before transforming into adults through metamorphosis.
• Amphibians do not tolerate dry conditions well and are therefore typically found near water or in moist environments.
• The best-known groups of amphibians are frogs, toads, and salamanders. The axolotl is a famous species of salamander from Mexico. Unlike other salamanders, the axolotl reaches adulthood without undergoing metamorphosis and remains underwater.

Are reptiles and amphibians dangerous, where do you encounter them, and where can you see them? 

• Geckos and lizards
• Frogs and toads
• Crocodiles and alligators
• Snakes
• Sea turtles