Why do tuataras and some lizards have a “third eye”?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do tuataras and some lizards have a “third eye”?

The Big Idea

Some reptiles have a third eye! On top of their heads! What does it do?

On Top

Step one: On Top. On top of a tuatara's head, there's a small spot that works like a third eye. It's called the parietal eye, and it's covered by skin and scales.

Light and Dark

Step two: Light and Dark. It can't see pictures, but it can sense light and dark. It may help the animal keep track of the time of day or the seasons.

Many Lizards Too

Step three: Many Lizards Too. Many lizards have a parietal eye too. It's easiest to see on a young tuatara.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Of the head. Its name. Sensed. Tracked.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! The third eye is easiest to see on a young tuatara. It can't see pictures. It senses light and dark. Many lizards have one.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Close your eyes and face a bright window. Can you tell it's light? Cover your eyes with your hands. Notice it gets darker. A parietal eye senses light in a similar way.

Outro

Tuataras and many lizards have a parietal eye on top of the head, covered by skin and scales. It can't see pictures but senses light and dark, which may help track time of day or seasons. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!