A major group of diapsid reptiles that includes lizards, snakes, and the tuatara. They are characterized by overlapping scales and the ability to shed their skin in pieces or whole.
From Greek 'lepidos' meaning scale and 'saurus' meaning lizard, literally 'scaled reptiles.' The name emphasizes their characteristic scaly skin, which distinguishes them from other reptile groups.
Lepidosaurs have a unique third eye called a parietal eye that can detect shadows and changes in light, helping them spot aerial predators! Snakes evolved from lizards within this group, essentially becoming legless lepidosaurs.
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