Differences Between Mammals And Reptiles

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Mammals and reptiles have been on earth for millions of years. They are both the two largest animals. Both mammals and reptiles can live together in different habitats even though there are several differences between them. A major difference reptiles and mammals have is their reproduction. Mammals are viviparous, which means they give birth to living young. When a mammal gives birth, she uses her mammary glands to nourish her young with milk. Reptiles are oviparous, they lay eggs to produce their young. The mother looks after her young and keeps the embryo moist and safe while it grows and develops. Once a newborn reptile is born it can live on its own. In addition, reptiles grow continuously throughout life, but mammals stop growing after they reach sexual maturity and that is considered adulthood. …show more content…

Mammals have fur or hair completely all over their bodies, and reptiles are covered in scales for protection. Mammals are the only animals that have fur and it grows from the outer layer of their skin. Mammals skin contain sweat glands, their skin releases oil, and it helps keep their fur waterproof. Their hair/fur offer protection against rain and cold. Reptiles skin does not contain sweat glands, which means their skin can easily dry out in an exposed environment. Reptile scales act as a protective layer to help prevent water loss from their bodies. Mammals are warm-blooded animals and reptiles are cold-blooded animals. Mammals are endothermic which means they can produce and control their body heat internally. Reptiles are ectothermic, they use their resources such as the sun to get