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Reptiles & Amphibians

Alligator Snapping Turtle

With eyes on the side of its head and a powerful, hooked upper jaw, this primitive looking snapper is known as the dinosaur of the turtle world. The alligator snapping turtle is also the largest freshwater turtle.

American Alligator

With huge tails, powerful jaws, and a toothy grin few would trust, alligators are crocodilians, a group that includes crocodiles, caimans, and gharials. American alligators (and their cousin the Chinese alligator) have broader and rounder snouts than crocodiles.

Anaconda

The anaconda is the heaviest snake in the world as well as one of the longest. Also known as the “water boa,” it is an excellent swimmer. These constrictors can grow to more than 300 pounds and 30 feet in length.

Wildlife Conservation Society

Emerald Tree Boa

This brilliant green, tree-dwelling snake can often be found coiled over a branch in its rainforest home. The white pattern on its scales mimics the spots of sunlight that filter through the tree canopy.

Nile Crocodile

The cave-dwelling Nile crocodile is Madagascar’s top predator. This reptile looms large in Malagasy culture as both a fearsome predator and a revered symbol of power. They also loom large quite literally: Nile crocs grow throughout their entire lives. The Bronx Zoo’s 13.5-foot, 800-pound male is just average!

Radiated Tortoise

The people of the southern stretches of Madagascar call the radiated tortoise “sokake” and consider it sacred above all creatures. The tortoise’s black shell has brilliant yellow lines that radiate from points on its shell. Viewed from the side, the golden marks resemble a crown of a king.