Details for Tuatara

• Tuatara

  The tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus) is a reptile endemic to New Zealand, representing a unique lineage (order Rhynchocephalia) separate from lizards and snakes. It is often called a 'living fossil' due to its ancient lineage. Tuataras can live for over 100 years, making them one of the longest-living vertebrates. They typically grow up to 80 cm (31 inches) in length and have a spiny crest along their back. Tuataras are nocturnal, carnivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, and small vertebrates. They are highly sensitive to temperature and are significant culturally to Māori and scientifically for their evolutionary uniqueness.

  

  Habitat: The Tuatara lives in New-zealand.