World Reptile Day

What is World Reptile Day?

World Reptile Day is an international event designed to celebrate the diversity of reptiles. It’s also a time to raise awareness of the plight of reptiles worldwide.

Why is Reptile Awareness Day celebrated?

Reptiles can easily be ignored in the push for animal protection in favour of mammal and bird species. Reptile Awareness Day helps raise awareness of the suffering of reptiles living in captivity or being kept as pets, as well as ongoing concerns about more reptile species becoming endangered in the wild.

When is Reptile Awareness Day?

Reptile Awareness Day is held every year on October 21st.

3 Reptile facts

Here are just some reptile facts to get you ready for World Reptile Day.

• Where in the world do reptiles live?

Reptiles can be found in all areas of the world except Antarctica. Hot, tropical areas will usually have more reptiles than drier, colder ones.

• Are reptiles endangered?

Yes, many species of reptiles are endangered. Border laws vary between countries, which fuels both legal and illegal international trade.

According to CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), which regulates the trade in endangered species, approximately 91% of all reptiles remain unprotected.

• Do reptiles have feelings?

Reptiles are sentient animals. They can feel emotions like joy and fear, and they have personal likes and dislikes. Some reptiles care for their offspring and even play. Captive reptiles rarely have these needs met.

FAQs 

Are lizards good pets?

Lizards shouldn’t be kept as pets. Many owners see lizards as low-maintenance pets, but this isn’t true. Lizards have complex physical, emotional, and social needs that vary wildly depending on the species.

Lizards aren’t domesticated. They’re wild animals and must remain wild to live healthy, fulfilled lives. Lizard and other reptile owners can’t properly create an ideal environment for their pets.

Should I release my pet reptile?

No! We shouldn’t be keeping reptiles as pets, but releasing pets into the wild is not a good idea. Releasing previously captive reptiles into the wild can damage the ecosystem.

If you own a pet reptile, learn as much as you can about their needs and do your best to meet them. If you can’t keep your pet reptile anymore, you should find a local rescue to take them in. 

Are reptiles cold-blooded? 

Although reptiles are often referred to as cold-blooded, this is something of a misnomer. They are instead ectotherms, meaning that they don’t generate their own body heat, but instead regulate it by moving into different temperatures. For instance, if they need to warm up they’ll move to a sunny spot, and if they need to cool down they will move to the shade.