World Lizard Day Aug. 14, 2024

From mythology to modern media, lizards have often been portrayed as scary reptiles. As it turns out, they"re not as dangerous as stories might lead you to believe. Today, World Lizard Day, is the perfect time to learn about these cold-blooded creatures. With more than 7,000 species, these animals have adapted to a wide range of environments—from deserts to rainforests. Take the gecko, for example. These little climbers have specialised toe pads that let them scale walls and even walk on ceilings. Then there"s the chameleon, known for its colour-changing skin. While many think it"s all about blending in, chameleons also change colour to communicate and regulate their temperature.

© Yva Momatiuk and John Eastcott/Minden Pictures

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