"The tuatara is an ancient reptile still existing in New Zealand. It is one of the four Orders of the Class Reptilia. The others are: crocodiles and alligators, turtles and tortoises, lizards and snakes. Thus, it is unique in the reptile world. This book is a detailed description of the characteristics and habits of this animal. In addition, it describes the relationship between the tuatara and the Maori (the indigenous people) and the rest of New Zealand. Zoo history and suggestions for zoo handling are also covered along with information about the New Zealand government's excellent steps to protect this unusual animal. It closes with a review of research, present and future. The book contain black & white and color photographs, a glossary, bibliography, and index"--Publisher's description.

"This is the first detailed monograph for decades about this enigmatic reptile, and the first to be illustrated in colour throughout. The evolution, natural history and conservation of tutara are covered in comprehensive detail ..." -- Back cover.

Reproductive Biology and Phylogeny of Lizards and Tuatara is a remarkable compendium of chapters written by the world's leading experts from over four continents. The book begins with a chapter recounting historical discoveries in reproductive biology and a review of phylogenetics and up-to-date hypotheses concerning evolutionary relationships amon

Find out what a tuatara has in common with a green sea turtle. Discover what sets a tuatara apart from a Brahminy blind snake. Check out the comparison charts and use your compare-and-contrast skills to explore reptile traits! Readers will compare and contrast key traits of tuataras—their appearance, behavior, habitat, and life cycle—to similar and different reptiles. Charts and sidebars support key ideas and provide details. Through gathering information about similarities and differences, readers will make connections and draw conclusions about what makes this animal a reptile and how reptiles are alike and different from each other.

Introduces the New Zealand reptile called the tuatara.

Tuataras are special animals because they’re old in many ways. They’re part of an order of reptiles that first appeared more than 200 million years ago! They can also live more than 100 years! Readers fascinated by these odd animals will love learning why they’re only found in New Zealand and how they adapted characteristics of many different kinds of animals, including amphibians, reptiles, and even fish! With full-color photographs showing off these features in great detail, this book is sure to impress young readers.

This twenty-two volume set presents the appearance and behavior of thousands of species of animals along with species population and prospects for survival in a arranged alphabetically and easy-to-read format.