Top 105 Reptiles of the World

1. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): Known for its large size and herbivorous diet, the green sea turtle is found in oceans around the world. It is named for the green color of its fat, not its shell.

2. Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis): The largest living lizard, the Komodo dragon inhabits the Indonesian islands. It’s a formidable predator with a powerful bite and a keen sense of smell.

3. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus): A critically endangered crocodilian species, the gharial has a distinct long, narrow snout adapted for catching fish in the rivers of India and Nepal.

4. Chameleon (Chamaeleonidae family): These colorful reptiles are known for their unique ability to change color. They have independently mobile eyes and a long, sticky tongue used to catch insects.

5. Reticulated Python (Python reticulatus): Among the world’s longest snakes, reticulated pythons are found in Southeast Asia. They’re known for their striking pattern and are non-venomous constrictors.

6. Jackson’s Chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii): Native to East Africa, this chameleon species has distinctive three horns on its head and a wide range of colors. It’s often kept as a pet.

7. Tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus): Not a lizard, the tuatara is a reptile endemic to New Zealand. It’s a living fossil, resembling ancient reptile forms, and has a “third eye” on top of its head.

8. Gila Monster (Heloderma suspectum): One of only two venomous lizards, the Gila monster is found in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It has distinctive black and orange patterns.

9. King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah): The world’s longest venomous snake, the king cobra is found in South and Southeast Asia. It’s known for its iconic hood and potent venom.

10. Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all sea turtles, the leatherback has a unique leathery shell and feeds primarily on jellyfish. It’s found in various oceans.

11. Frilled Lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii): Native to Australia and New Guinea, this lizard has a large frill around its neck that it displays when threatened, making it appear larger.

12. Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii): Found in North America, this turtle is known for its powerful bite and a lure resembling a worm on its tongue to attract prey.

13. Monitor Lizard (Varanidae family): A diverse group of lizards found in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Some species, like the Nile monitor, are excellent swimmers and hunters.

14. Iguana (Iguanidae family): These large lizards are primarily found in Central and South America. They have distinctive crests along their backs and are known for their herbivorous diets.

15. Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor): Non-venomous snakes found in North, Central, and South America. They are constrictors, coiling around prey to suffocate them before consuming.

16. Bearded Dragon (Pogona spp.): Native to Australia, bearded dragons are popular as pets due to their docile nature. They have a distinctive “beard” of spiky scales under their throats that they puff out when threatened.

17. Horned Viper (Cerastes cerastes): Found in North Africa and the Middle East, this venomous snake has characteristic horns above its eyes and a sand-colored appearance that helps it blend into its environment.

18. Matamata Turtle (Chelus fimbriatus): Native to South America, this bizarre-looking turtle has a flattened, rough shell and a long, snorkel-like nose. It’s a master of camouflage among aquatic plants.

19. Thorny Devil (Moloch horridus): A small lizard found in Australia, the thorny devil has a spiky appearance that helps it deter predators. It can also absorb water through its skin.

20. Blue Iguana (Cyclura lewisi): Endemic to Grand Cayman, this iguana species is critically endangered. Its name comes from the striking blue coloration some individuals exhibit.

21. Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis): One of Africa’s most feared snakes, the black mamba is highly venomous and known for its speed and aggression. It’s found in savannas and rocky areas.

22. Gecko (Gekkonidae family): Geckos are found worldwide and are known for their ability to climb walls and ceilings due to specialized toe pads. They often have large, lidless eyes.

23. Agama Lizard (Agamidae family): These lizards are widespread in Asia, Africa, and parts of Australia. They often have brightly colored males and are known for their “push-up” displays.

24. Anaconda (Eunectes spp.): Found in South America, anacondas are large, non-venomous snakes that are excellent swimmers. The green anaconda is the largest snake by weight and girth.

25. Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura spp.): These iguanas inhabit arid regions of the Americas. They have spiky tails used for defense and are known for their social behavior.

26. Common Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus): Native to North America, this skink species has a smooth appearance and often has distinctive stripes. They’re often seen basking in the sun.

27. Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma spp.): Found in North and Central America, horned lizards are known for their flattened bodies and unique defense mechanism of shooting blood from their eyes when threatened.

28. Uromastyx (Uromastyx spp.): These spiny-tailed lizards are found in arid regions of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. They’re adapted to desert life and are herbivorous.

29. Boomslang (Dispholidus typus): Native to sub-Saharan Africa, the boomslang is a venomous snake known for its potent venom and large eyes. It’s often brightly colored.

30. Crocodile Monitor (Varanus salvadorii): Found in Papua New Guinea, this monitor lizard is known for its exceptionally long tail and is considered one of the longest lizards in the world.

31. Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus): Native to Southeast Asia, this arboreal lizard is named for its affinity for water and its vibrant green coloration. It’s often kept as a pet.

32. Gaboon Viper (Bitis gabonica): Found in sub-Saharan Africa, the gaboon viper is known for having the longest fangs of any snake and a distinctive pattern that helps it blend in with its surroundings.

33. Mata Mata Turtle (Chelus fimbriata): This South American aquatic turtle has a unique appearance with a flat, pancake-like shell and a long neck. It’s an ambush predator, using its camouflage to catch prey.

34. Green Iguana (Iguana iguana): Native to Central and South America, the green iguana is one of the largest species of iguanas. It’s known for its bright green coloration and can adapt to a variety of habitats.

35. Frilled-neck Lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii): Also known as the frilled lizard, this reptile is native to northern Australia and New Guinea. It’s known for its striking, fringed neck that it displays as a defense mechanism.

36. Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus): A large and powerful crocodilian found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. It’s known for its aggressive behavior and is a formidable predator.

37. Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus): Native to New Caledonia, this gecko is famous for the eyelash-like projections above its eyes. It’s a popular pet due to its unique appearance and gentle demeanor.

38. Pancake Tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri): Found in East Africa, this small tortoise has a flat, pancake-like shell that helps it wedge into rock crevices for protection.

39. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus): The largest venomous snake in North America, known for its distinct diamond-shaped pattern and rattling tail used as a warning signal.

40. Madagascar Day Gecko (Phelsuma madagascariensis): Native to Madagascar and nearby islands, these colorful geckos are often kept as pets. They are diurnal and feed on insects and nectar.

41. Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis): Endemic to Madagascar, this chameleon species is known for its stunning color-changing abilities and striking appearance, making it a popular species in the pet trade.

42. Perentie (Varanus giganteus): The largest monitor lizard in Australia, the perentie can grow up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length. It’s a skilled predator and scavenger.

43. Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus): One of the largest snake species by weight, the green anaconda is found in South America’s Amazon Basin. It’s a powerful swimmer and ambush predator.

44. Blue-tongued Skink (Tiliqua spp.): Native to Australia, New Guinea, and some nearby islands, these skinks are recognized by their blue tongues and chunky bodies. They’re omnivorous and popular in the pet trade.

45. Thorny Devil (Moloch horridus): Found in arid regions of Australia, this lizard has a spiky appearance for protection and a specialized water-collection system that allows it to drink from dew and rain.

46. Emerald Tree Boa (Corallus caninus): Native to South America, this striking snake is known for its vibrant green coloration and its ability to hang from branches using its prehensile tail.

47. Sea Krait (Laticauda spp.): Found in the Indo-Pacific region, sea kraits are highly venomous aquatic snakes. They have distinctive banded patterns and are often found in coral reefs.

48. Plumed Basilisk (Basiliscus plumifrons): Also known as the green basilisk or Jesus Christ lizard, this Central American lizard is famous for its ability to run on water for short distances due to its large hind feet and rapid motion.

49. Rhinoceros Iguana (Cyclura cornuta): Native to the Caribbean, the rhinoceros iguana gets its name from the horn-like structures on its head. It’s a large, herbivorous lizard that’s critically endangered.

50. Madagascarophis colubrinus: A species of colubrid snake found in Madagascar. It’s known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

51. Cape Cobra (Naja nivea): A venomous snake found in southern Africa, the Cape cobra has a wide distribution and comes in various color morphs. It’s known for its potent neurotoxic venom.

52. Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko): Native to Southeast Asia, this gecko is known for its loud and distinctive vocalizations. It’s also recognized by its vibrant blue tongue.

53. Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans): Originally from North America, this aquatic turtle is widely kept as a pet around the world. It’s recognizable by the red patch behind its eye.

54. Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus spp.): Often mistaken for snakes, glass lizards are legless reptiles with elongated bodies and fragile tails that can break off as a defense mechanism.

55. Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans): Native to India and Sri Lanka, this tortoise species has a striking star-like pattern on its shell. It’s a popular species in the pet trade.

56. European Adder (Vipera berus): The only venomous snake native to the UK, the European adder is found across Europe and Asia. It’s known for its distinct zigzag pattern on its back.

57. Helmeted Iguana (Corytophanes cristatus): Native to Central America, this iguana species has a bony casque on its head that resembles a helmet, providing protection and camouflage.

58. Madagascan Ground Gecko (Paroedura picta): Endemic to Madagascar, this gecko lives on the forest floor and is known for its colorful and patterned appearance.

59. African Rock Python (Python sebae): One of the largest snake species, found in sub-Saharan Africa. It’s a non-venomous constrictor and can prey on a wide range of animals.

60. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox): Found in North America, particularly in the southwestern United States, this rattlesnake is known for its potent venom and distinctive rattling tail.

61. Banded Water Snake (Nerodia fasciata): Native to North America, this non-venomous water snake is known for its distinctive bands and is often found in aquatic habitats.

62. Dwarf Caiman (Paleosuchus spp.): Found in South America, these small caimans are adapted to live in freshwater habitats like swamps and rivers. They are relatively timid compared to larger crocodilians.

63. Striped Skink (Trachylepis striata): Found in Africa, the striped skink is known for its vibrant coloration and pattern of alternating stripes, which provides effective camouflage.

64. Leaf-tailed Gecko (Uroplatus spp.): Native to Madagascar, these geckos have flattened bodies with leaf-like projections and are masters of camouflage among tree bark and foliage.

65. Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum): Found in southwestern United States, this lizard is often called the “horned toad” due to its spiky appearance. It primarily feeds on ants.

66. Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus): This large South American snake is known for its massive size and its ability to thrive in aquatic environments, such as swamps and rivers.

67. Water Monitor (Varanus salvator): Widely distributed in Southeast Asia, the water monitor is a large lizard known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle and impressive swimming skills.

68. European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis): Found across Europe, this lizard species is recognizable by its vibrant green coloration and can often be found basking in the sun.

69. Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus): Native to North America, this non-venomous snake is an excellent climber and is often found in trees or abandoned buildings.

70. Australian Water Dragon (Intellagama lesueurii): Found in Australia, these semi-aquatic lizards are skilled swimmers and climbers. They are known for their vivid coloration and impressive displays.

71. Mwanza Flat-headed Agama (Agama mwanzae): Native to East Africa, this agama species has a flattened head and striking colors, often displaying social behaviors and territorial displays.

72. Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus spp.): Native to North and Central America, collared lizards are known for their vivid coloration and distinctive neck collars that they display during territorial interactions.

73. Western Green Mamba (Dendroaspis viridis): Native to West Africa, this venomous snake is known for its vibrant green coloration and is one of the few arboreal elapid snakes.

74. Jackson’s Horned Chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii): Native to East Africa, this chameleon species has prominent horns on its head and can display a range of colors.

75. Yellow-bellied Sea Snake (Hydrophis platurus): Widely distributed in oceans around the world, this highly venomous snake is adapted to life at sea, often being found far from land.

76. Gidgee Skink (Egernia stokesii): Native to Australia, this skink is known for its strong social structure and the formation of family groups, making it a subject of behavioral studies.

77. Rattlesnake Racer (Coluber flagellum): Found in North America, this snake species is known for its incredible speed and agility. It’s a non-venomous snake that preys on small animals.

78. Central Netted Dragon (Ctenophorus nuchalis): Native to Australia, this small dragon lizard has a net-like pattern on its back and is known for its interesting displays and behaviors.

79. Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata): Found along the west coast of North America, this lizard is notable for its elongated body and the loose skin around its neck that resembles an alligator’s.

80. Gargoyle Gecko (Rhacodactylus auriculatus): Native to New Caledonia, this gecko species is known for its distinctive appearance, with horn-like projections above its eyes and textured skin.

81. Tentacled Snake (Erpeton tentaculatum): Found in Southeast Asia, this aquatic snake has unique tentacle-like structures near its nose that it uses to attract prey in the water.

82. Madagascarophis colubrinus: Native to Madagascar, this snake species is known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

83. Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis): Endemic to Madagascar, this chameleon species is known for its stunning color-changing abilities and striking appearance, making it a popular species in the pet trade.

84. Water Dragon (Physignathus spp.): Found in Southeast Asia and Australia, water dragons are semi-aquatic lizards that have a distinctive appearance and are known for their swimming abilities.

85. Egyptian Tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni): Native to the deserts of North Africa, this small tortoise species is known for its intricate shell pattern and its status as one of the smallest tortoise species in the world.

86. Anole Lizard (Anolis spp.): Native to the Americas, anoles are a diverse group of lizards known for their vibrant colors, dewlap displays, and adaptability to various habitats.

87. Five-lined Skink (Plestiodon fasciatus): Found in North America, this skink species is recognizable by the five distinct stripes running down its back, often displaying vibrant colors during mating season.

88. Gaboon Adder (Bitis gabonica): Native to sub-Saharan Africa, this venomous snake is known for its large size, striking pattern, and its record-holding fangs, which are the longest of any snake.

89. Glass Snake (Ophisaurus spp.): Also known as legless lizards or jointed snakes, glass snakes are found in various regions. They have long bodies and can shed their tails to escape predators.

90. Madagascarophis colubrinus: Native to Madagascar, this snake species is known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

91. Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius): Native to arid regions of Asia, this gecko is a popular pet due to its docile nature and unique spotted appearance.

92. Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis): Found in New Guinea and surrounding islands, this non-venomous snake is known for its bright green coloration and its ability to curl into a tight coil.

93. Slender Blind Snake (Leptotyphlops spp.): These small, burrowing snakes are found in various regions around the world. They are often mistaken for worms due to their tiny size and shiny appearance.

94. Many-scaled Anole (Anolis polylepis): Native to Central America, this anole species is known for its incredibly small size and is considered one of the smallest reptiles in the world.

95. African Rock Python (Python sebae): Found in sub-Saharan Africa, the African rock python is one of the largest snake species, known for its impressive size and powerful constriction.

96. Madagascarophis colubrinus: Native to Madagascar, this snake species is known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

97. Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura similis): Found in Central America and northern South America, this iguana species has a robust body and a distinctive spiky tail.

98. Yellow Anaconda (Eunectes notaeus): Native to South America, the yellow anaconda is a smaller relative of the green anaconda, known for its striking yellow coloration.

99. European Legless Lizard (Pseudopus apodus): Found in parts of Europe and Asia, this legless lizard resembles a snake but is actually a lizard species. It’s known for its cylindrical body.

100. Madagascarophis colubrinus: Native to Madagascar, this snake species is known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

101. Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei): Originally from Cuba and the Bahamas, brown anoles have become invasive in some regions. They are often seen displaying territorial behaviors and head-bobbing displays.

102. Bibron’s Gecko (Chondrodactylus bibronii): Found in arid regions of southern Africa, this gecko is known for its stocky appearance and is equipped with adhesive toe pads.

103. Eastern Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus collaris): Native to North America, this lizard species is known for its distinctive coloration and the “collar” of contrasting scales around its neck.

104. Madagascarophis colubrinus: Native to Madagascar, this snake species is known for its slender body and non-venomous nature, often encountered in a variety of habitats.

105. Thornytail Iguana (Sceloporus spinosus): Native to Mexico and Central America, this spiny-tailed iguana is named for the thorny projections on its tail.

The diversity of reptile species is truly astounding, each one adapted to its unique environment and lifestyle.