An original new science series which explores the key characteristics that divide the main animal and plant groups, and looks at how these characteristics have evolved over time. The information is supported by examples that highlight the quirky and amazing qualities of the natural world, as well as revealing the dazzling variety within each group.

Why do Reptile Have Scales? looks at the features that make reptiles so unique. It describes how reptiles have evolved over time, and highlights how they adapt to survive in many different kinds of environment. Reptile anatomy, movement and self-defence all also feature.

This book is part of a book series called Wildlife Wonders .

There are 32 pages in this book. This book was published 2016 by Hachette Children's Group .

Pat Jacobs has written more than 50 non-fiction, reference and activity books for children on subjects ranging from dinosaurs to the future of space exploration. She has lived in Paris and Germany, and has translated several children's books from German into English. Pat has two grown-up children and lives with her husband in rural Suffolk.

This book has the following chapters:

• 1: What is a reptile?
• 2: Classification of reptiles
• 3: Why do reptiles have scales?
• 4: Reptile habitats
• 5: Getting about
• 6: Senses & intelligence
• 7: Finding food
• 8: Reproduction
• 9: Growing up
• 10: Self-defence
• 11: Fearsome beasts
• 12: Remarkable reptiles
• 13: Reptiles at risk