Not much is known about the plight of reptiles as a whole, as only 8 percent of all known reptile species have been evaluated for inclusion on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Of these, over half — 341 reptiles — are now considered threatened or endangered.

Habitat loss appears to be the major issue facing reptiles, judging by those surveyed. Sea turtles in particular are vulnerable to destruction of nesting grounds, as well as having their eggs harvested. Non-native species, such as cats and dogs, also play a significant roll in the decline of many reptile species.

[About the IUCN and USFWS.]

AMERICAN CROCODILE IUCN Status: Vulnerable USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threat: Loss of suitable wetland habitat

BOG TURTLE IUCN Status: Endangered Major Threat: Draining of wetland ecosystems

GREEN SEA TURTLE IUCN Status: Endangered USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threats: Overexploitation of eggs and adults; incidental capture in fishing gear

KOMODO DRAGON IUCN Status: Vulnerable USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threats: Habitat loss, loss of prey species and poaching

LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE IUCN Status: Critically Endangered USFWS Status: Endangered Major Threats: Nest-site disturbance, fishing operations, pollution and egg collection

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