Title: (Optional) Identify reptiles, amphibians, and other exotic species.
Course: Agricultural Education - Development (18003-I) > Section: Exploring the Small Animal Care Industry

Identification could include

- terms common to reptiles and amphibians
- considerations involved in selecting pet reptiles or amphibians
- common species of pet reptiles and amphibians (e.g., chameleon, bearded dragon, iguana, frog, toad, salamander, snake, turtle)
- characteristics
  - physical characteristics (e.g., markings and color, anatomical characteristics such as size, weight, shape, length)
  - reptile and amphibian behaviors
  - reproductive traits
  - feeding habits
  - natural habitats
- how to care for reptiles and amphibians
  - nutritional requirements
  - housing and equipment requirements of pet reptiles and amphibians.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What are the similarities and differences between a reptile and an amphibian?
- What abiotic or biotic factors affect amphibian and reptile habitats?
- How are reptiles and birds similar?
- What indigenous reptiles and amphibians are found in Virginia?
- How is loss of habitat affecting reptile and amphibian populations?
- What is herpetology?
- What are the nutritional requirements for specific species of reptiles, amphibians, frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, and caecilians?
- What are the housing and equipment requirements for reptiles and amphibians?
- What are some protected reptile and amphibian species, and why are they protected?

Teacher Resource: Virginia Regulations for Reptiles & Amphibians, Wildlife Center of Virginia