Invertebrates and Herps

What is an Invertebrate?

Invertebrates is any creature that does not have a backbone/spinal cord – for example: spiders, beetles, snails and sea stars are all invertebrates. This CLASS of animals is the most numerous on the planet, encompassing more than half of all discovered species.

What is a “Herp”?

“Herp” is a term many biologists, zoologists and naturalists use to lump amphibians and reptiles into the same group.
Although amphibians and reptiles look very similar, they are two distinct groups of animals. AMPHIBIANS are characterized by having (for the most part) fragile, water-permable skin, are cold blooded, lay their eggs in water and most spend their lives in close proximity to water. Animals like frogs, toads and salamanders are amphibians.
REPTILES, on the other hand, have dry scaly skin and lay their eggs on land. Many are specially adapted for living in very arid climates. Some spend most of their lives in water! All are cold-blooded and breathe air. Examples of reptiles are snakes, tortoises and alligators