If it’s October 21st, then it’s time to show the reptiles in your life a little bit of the attention they deserve. That’s because this day is a holiday known as National Reptile Awareness Day. It’s also a day that’s designed to promote education about these creatures and to support their conservation. So, whether you own a reptile or are just a big fan of them, you might want to take a few minutes out of your day to celebrate this holiday.

Interesting Facts About Reptiles

Since the whole purpose of this holiday is to spread information about reptiles, we thought we’d get the ball rolling by talking about some of the interesting facts we’ve learned about reptiles. The following facts are sure to interest anyone even marginally interested in these amazing creatures.

• Lizards don’t feel “cold” like mammals do, but their movement is slowed down when they’re cold.
• Scientists have found reptile remains dating back over 310 million years.
• A crocodile can survive on 10% of the food that a lion needs per day to survive.
• Crocodiles can survive temporary food shortages that would kill other types of animals.
• All reptiles breathe using their lungs.
• Both crocodiles and constrictors can live for several months on a single meal—if it’s large enough.
• The Galapagos tortoise can store 20% of its body weight in its bladder.
• The younger a reptile is, the more skin it sheds.
• Scientists estimate that there are over 10,000 species of reptiles in the world.
• Reptiles do not have sweat glands.
• Vipers and rattlesnakes don’t lay eggs but instead give birth to live young.
• Anacondas also give birth to live young.
• Reptiles are among the longest-lived animals on the planet.
• Reptiles can be found on every continent except for Antarctica.
• American alligators live in the southeastern part of the United States.
• Chinese alligators live in the Yangtze River Valley.
• There are more Chinese alligators in captivity than living in the wild.
• The gender of baby alligators is determined by temperature.
• If an alligator lays eggs at a temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit, they will become female. If the temperature is above 93 degrees Fahrenheit, then they will become male.
• Most reptiles are carnivores.
• There are 500 species of venomous snakes. Only about 40 of them are harmful to humans, however.

Observing National Reptile Awareness Day

Anyone wishing to observe this holiday merely has to make an effort to educate themselves about reptiles. They can do this by reading a book, watching a documentary, or visiting a local zoo. It’s also a good day to donate to one of the animal conservation groups that are dealing with the problem of declining reptile populations. While you’re observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalReptileAwarenessDay to spread the word about it on your social media accounts. Let everyone know about this holiday and spread the word about it far and wide.