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REPTILES 
branches. In the case of the turtles, those that live in 
the sea have paddle-like feet for swimming, while those 
that live partly on land and partly in the water have toes 
with webs. Lizards are almost always of about the same 
color as their surroundings. 
SUMMARY 
The reptiles always use lungs for breathing. They 
usually have scales or bony plates in the skin and have 
either two pairs of appendages (turtles, lizards, alligators, 
crocodiles) or none (snakes). It is important to learn to 
recognize poisonous reptiles, as their bite is dangerous. 
LABORATORY QUESTIONS 
From models or preserved specimens the difference between the harm¬ 
ful and harmless reptiles should be worked out. The living turtle can be 
studied easily. Its special skeleton is an illustration of protective 
adaptation. Notice how the nostrils of the aquatic turtle can be closed. 
How does this help the turtle? 
QUESTIONS 
What are the most common snakes in your vicinity? Are they 
poisonous? How can you tell? Where do they live? What do they 
eat? How many kinds of turtles do you know? Where do they live? 
REFERENCES 
Ditmars, The Reptile Book. 
Jordan, Kellogg and Heath, Animal Studies. 
Linville and Kelly, General Zoology. 
Reese, The Alligator and its Allies. 
Reese, Alligators as Food. 
