Types of reptiles: which reptiles are there?

Written by Anne | September 8, 2025

Reptiles are fascinating animals that have been roaming our planet for millions of years. They belong to the group of cold-blooded vertebrates, have scaly skin, usually lay eggs, and depend on their environment to regulate their body temperature. Reptiles are popular as pets, but they are also incredibly diverse in the wild. In this blog, you will learn which types of reptiles exist and what their main characteristics are.

What are reptiles?

Reptiles (Reptilia) are a diverse group of animals found all over the world. They are cold-blooded animals with a tough, scaly skin. They breathe through lungs and usually reproduce by laying eggs. Well-known characteristics include:

A body temperature that depends on the environment (cold-blooded)
A skin covered with scales, plates, or a shell
Breathing through lungs
Usually egg-laying (some give birth to live young)

Main categories of reptiles

Reptiles can broadly be divided into four main groups:

1. Snakes (Serpentes)

Snakes are reptiles without legs, with an elongated body and scaly skin. They use their muscles to move and usually hunt prey such as rodents, birds, or insects. There are both venomous and non-venomous species.

Well-known snakes:

Ball python
Corn snake (red rat snake)
Boa constrictor
Green tree python

Pet-friendly? Some species, such as the corn snake, are relatively easy to keep for beginners. Other species require specialist knowledge.

2. Lizards (Lacertilia)

Lizards come in all shapes and sizes. They usually have four legs, a movable tail, and scaly skin. Many lizards are insect eaters, while some larger species also eat plants or small animals.

Well-known lizards:

Bearded dragon
Leopard gecko
Anole
Blue-tongued skink

Pet-friendly? Yes, especially bearded dragons and leopard geckos are popular due to their calm temperament and relatively easy care requirements.

3. Turtles (Testudines)

Turtles are easy to recognise by their hard shell, which protects them from predators. Depending on the species, they can live on land or in water. They are generally slow, but can live for many decades.

Well-known turtles:

Hermann’s tortoise
Spur-thighed tortoise
Red-eared slider (aquatic turtle)

Pet-friendly? Land and aquatic turtles can be kept as pets, but they need plenty of space and specialised food. Note: they can live for several decades.

4. Crocodilians (Crocodilia)

These are the largest and most impressive reptiles, also known as “armoured reptiles.” Crocodiles, alligators, and caimans are powerful predators that mainly live in tropical areas.

Well-known species:

True crocodile, such as the Nile crocodile
Alligator
Caiman
Gharial

Pet-friendly? No, these animals are not suitable as pets and are only kept in zoos or specialised rescue centres.

Lesser-known reptile groups

There are also lesser-known reptiles such as:

Amphisbaenians (worm lizards): resemble snakes but have different anatomical features.
Basilisks: belong to the iguana family. They have a slim, laterally flattened body with long legs and a long tail. They are known for their ability to run across water.
Iguanas: larger lizard species with a long tail and a distinctive crest that is most pronounced on the neck.
Chameleons: known for their colour-changing ability and long, sticky tongue used to catch prey.

Which reptile suits you?

Do you want a reptile as a pet? Then it’s important to research the species you’re interested in carefully. Pay attention to:

Habitat: terrarium size, humidity, temperature
Diet: insects, vegetables, specialised food
Behaviour: diurnal or nocturnal, social or solitary
Care and health

Popular reptiles for beginners include the bearded dragon, leopard gecko, and corn snake. They are relatively tame, widely available, and have straightforward care requirements.

There are many types of reptiles, each with their own characteristics and care needs. Whether you are fascinated by snakes, want a calm tortoise, or prefer an energetic bearded dragon, there is a suitable species for every enthusiast—provided you are well prepared. On the LICG website, you can find pet information sheets for each reptile.

Check our reptile page for everything you may need for your reptile!