Snakes are reptiles, a class of vertebrates that also includes lizards, turtles, crocodiles and the tuatara, a small group of lizard-like animals found in New Zealand. As a group, reptiles share many common characteristics. All reptiles have scales. They grow by literally "crawling out of their skin" two to four times annually- they must regularly shed the outside layer of their skin as they get bigger. Reptiles have a body temperature that is the same as their surroundings. They regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun when cold, or seeking shade and reducing activity when warm. Therefore, ambient temperature influences the daily activities of all snakes. For example, snakes tend to be more active during the middle of the day in the spring and fall when evenings are cool, and more active in the morning and evening during the hot summer months.
Micrurus (click to enlarge)
