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Book 32, Question 45 · Video

Why do reptiles lie on warm rocks after sunset?

Video · 1:48 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 32

Stone soaks up heat during the day and slowly lets it go in the evening. A snake or lizard can rest on the rock and take in that stored warmth, which keeps it active a little longer. Warm roads work the same way, which is why reptiles sometimes cross them at dusk. Drivers should go slow and watch out for wildlife on warm evenings.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do reptiles lie on warm rocks after sunset?

The Big Idea

The Sun goes down, but some reptiles stay out! They lie on rocks and pavement. Why?

Rocks Store Heat

Step one: Rocks Store Heat. Stone soaks up heat during the day. Then it slowly lets it go in the evening.

Warm Seats

Step two: Warm Seats. A snake or lizard can rest on the rock and take in that stored warmth. That keeps it active a little longer.

Warm Roads

Step three: Warm Roads. Warm roads work the same way, which is why reptiles sometimes cross them at dusk. Drivers should slow down and watch for wildlife on warm evenings.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Store heat. Stay warm. Soak it up. Go slow.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Rocks and pavement can stay warm after the Sun goes down. Reptiles sometimes cross roads at dusk. Drivers should go slow on warm evenings. Warm rocks mean more activity.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! In the evening, with a grown-up, find a rock that was in the sun all day. Gently touch it. Then touch a rock that was in the shade. Notice the difference. Stay away from roads while you test.

Outro

Stone soaks up heat all day and slowly releases it in the evening, so reptiles rest on warm rocks to stay active longer. Warm roads do the same, so drivers should watch for reptiles at dusk. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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