There are over 350 species of turtles and tortoises worldwide with 10 species native to Michigan. Some species can even live to be over 100 years old. The turtle's shell is part of their skeletal structure and can be used as a defense against predators. The shells of chelonians are comprised of scutes made up of keratin, the same material found in hair and nails. Chelonians are characterized by their tough shells which are divided by an upper and lower half called the carapace and plastron, respectively. Turtles and tortoises, collectively referred to as chelonians, represent an order of reptiles that have remained largely unchanged for the past 250 million years.
Frogs and toads have permeable skin, and although they do have lungs, much of their respiration occurs through the skin. The larvae of many species are dependent on fishless habitats to develop an absence of predators allows the larvae to fully metamorphose into adults. Eggs are laid in water bodies and the aquatic larvae - known as tadpoles - develop and metamorphose in the water that they hatch into. Each species uses a unique call to attract mates throughout the breeding season. Worldwide there are over 6,500 species of frogs and toads thirteen species call Michigan home, with several species found throughout the state. Frogs and toads have adapted to a range of landscapes and environments spanning from desert to fully aquatic and can be found on every continent with the exception of Antarctica. They are characterized by lack of tails and have limbs adapted for jumping, swimming, burrowing, and climbing. During the chilling winter months they hibernate together across the rocky mountains.Frogs and toads are a diverse and environmentally sensitive order of amphibians.The Blue Racers also vibrate their tails uniquely creating a buzzing sound, which warns the other snakes of its type.If disturbed, they will bite immediately.If frightened they will take shelter in trees and bushes.When they are foraging, the blue racers face up, and race faster through the bushes.
Till date, the largest specimen, captured on Pelee island was 138 cm, snout to vent length. The juvenile snakes are grayish in color.īeing the largest snake of Ontario, the blue racer attains a length of 90 cm to 152 cm from snout to vent. The abdomen is either white or pale blue in color, with a prorated anal plate. The large gray snake or the blue racer tend to have smoother scales across the 4-6 feet long body that is usually lighter in color than the head, even though the chin and throat are white in color. By the third season, the pattern is usually visible on the ventral side. The hatchlings as well as the yearlings tend to bear blotches on the back, which gradually become light as soon as they are about three years old. Black masks and comparatively bigger eyes are the unique features of the race. The rostal (near the snout) scales are brownish to orange in color. The eastern racers are characterized by creamy white scales on the belly, and pale gray or candid blue lateral scales, while their dorsum portion (upper side) is brown or dark gray in color.
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