All About Tuataras
A bony ridge over its eyes and a third eye on its head make the tuatara one of the most unusual animals!
What Are Tuataras?
Tuatara are small reptiles. Just above their eyes, there are two elongated, arch-shaped bones. They are famous for having a third eye on the top of their head. The tuatara is found exclusively in New Zealand, specifically on 30 small islands. There, it is the largest reptile.
Main Characteristics of Tuataras
- There is only one species of tuatara.
- "Tuatara" comes from the Maori language and translates to "peaks on the back".
- Its closest relatives are an extinct group of reptiles from the age of dinosaurs.
- Its head features two bony ridges that resemble a bridge. That is why it is called "Brückenechse" in German ("Brücke" = bridge, "Echse" = lizard).
- It can focus its eyes independently of each other – just like a chameleon.
- The tuatara is a carnivore. Its diet mainly consists of invertebrates, insects, and spiders.
- It has a remarkable lifespan. It can live up to 60 years, and in some cases, even reach 100 years.
- The tuatara is ectothermic, meaning it relies on the surrounding temperature. Unlike many other reptiles, it can remain active even in cooler temperatures. Additionally, it has a lower body temperature compared to most reptiles.
- It is not considered an endangered species, but it is protected and it is prohibited to hunt or kill it.
- The biggest threat to them is the loss of habitat and the introduction of animals such as domestic cats, domestic dogs, rats, and mice.
- There are approximately 55,000 tuataras left.
Top 3 Features of Tuataras
1. Bony Ridges
The most striking feature of the Tuatara are the two bony ridges above its eyes. They protect its head from injuries - especially safeguarding the third eye. Additionally, they reinforce its skull, which is crucial for delivering a strong bite.
2. Third Eye
At the top of its head, there is what is known as a "third eye". This is also called a parietal eye. The third eye contains a retina, a lens, and nerve endings. However, the tuatara cannot see with it. Biologists are still uncertain about the exact function of the third eye, but they believe it may be capable of detecting UV light. It is only visible in young individuals, as it is hidden beneath scales in adults.
3. Living Fossil
The tuatara is referred to as a "living fossil". It has existed for 240 million years and has changed very little since then.
