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Reptiles of China

A herpetology site by Sam G C Earnshaw — snakes, lizards, turtles & more.

China is one of the most reptile-rich countries on Earth — from the critically endangered Chinese alligator in the wetlands of the lower Yangtze, to venomous cobras and kraits in the south, to a snake that lives around hot springs on the Tibetan Plateau at over 4,000 metres. This site is where I’m building up everything I’m learning about them: what they are, where they live, and why so many of them need our help.

[Photo of Sam with a reptile — coming soon]

What are reptiles?

Reptiles are cold-blooded (ectothermic) animals with scaly skin that mostly lay eggs. The main groups you’ll find in China are snakes, lizards (including geckos and skinks), turtles (both land and freshwater species), and one crocodilian — the Chinese alligator, one of only two alligator species left in the world.

Snakes — Legless, incredibly flexible, and found almost everywhere in China, from venomous cobras to gentle, giant ratsnakes.

Lizards — Geckos, skinks, and water dragons. Most have legs, most can run fast, and some can drop their tails to escape danger.

Turtles — Some of China’s most endangered reptiles, prized for centuries in food, medicine, and the pet trade.

Crocodilians — Just one species, the Chinese alligator, critically endangered and found only in the lower Yangtze region.

Explore more

Head to the Reptiles of China Database to search and browse species, or check out the blog for updates from my own reptile encounters.