Q 01/05

What term describes animals, such as reptiles, that rely on outside heat like sunshine to warm their bodies?

A) Endothermic

B) Ectothermic

C) Mesothermic

D) Homeothermic

Answer · why

B) Ectothermic

Ectothermic animals take their warmth from outside and so burn far less fuel: a reptile gets by on a fraction of the food a mammal of the same size mu...

Q 02/05

Of the 26 crocodilian species, how many are considered dangerous to adult humans?

A) Two

B) Six

C) Fifteen

D) All 26

Answer · why

B) Six

The Nile crocodile and the saltwater crocodile account for most attacks.

Q 03/05

What is the process called when a reptile sheds its skin?

A) Estivation

B) Metamorphosis

C) Ecdysis

D) Autotomy

Answer · why

C) Ecdysis

Ecdysis recurs throughout a reptile's life: a snake may moult several times a year, the pace set by its age, the weather and how well it has been feed...

Q 04/05

Sea turtle hatchlings find the sea by crawling toward what?

A) Loudest surf

B) Brightest horizon

C) Saltiest air

D) Warmest sand

Answer · why

B) Brightest horizon

The brightest horizon is naturally the open sky over the sea, so beachfront lamps can lure hatchlings the wrong way; that is why many nesting coasts r...

Q 05/05

Which snakes have hinged fangs that fold back when not in use?

A) Cobras

B) Vipers

C) Mambas

D) Sea snakes

Answer · why

B) Vipers

Vipers lay their long hollow fangs flat against the roof of the mouth, then swing them forward into biting position as the jaws gape wide.