Tuatara
Name: TuataraScientific Name: Sphenodon punctatus
Basic Information:
The Windaroo Zoo is incredible lucky to have a breeding pair of Tuatara from New Zealand. This species has been classified as an endangered species since 1895.
Are they reptiles? Yes. Are they lizards? Kind of. Are they snakes? A little bit. Tuatara are special because they are equally related to snakes and lizards even though they have a lizard-like appearance. Evolutionary biologists often examine the genetic structures of the Tutatara.
These reptiles are about 80 centimeters long (with tail) and have spines along their back. They have two rows of small teeth that help them chew up small insects and grubs. They also have something special. Even though they don't have obvious ears, they are able to hear and sense vibrations in the ground. Even their skeleton is special. It still has some features found in fish, but not other reptiles.
Their name is from the Maori word for "Peaks on back".
Habitat Information:
Island - Our island exhibit offers a look at the astonishing biodiversity that can be found both on and around ocean islands. The biological exchange between and within the land and sea life of this habitat provides an entertaining and educational experience that everyone will enjoy.
Tuatara at Windaroo:
We keep our pair in the reptile house in a special enclosure. During breeding season, we close off their area, but you can still view their enclosure through a camera we have installed.
Related Animals:
Tasmanian Devil
Tortoise
Turtle
A-Z Animal List