The tuatara is a unique reptile native to New Zealand, often mistaken for a lizard due to its appearance. It belongs to the order Rhynchocephalia and is the only surviving member of its group, which thrived over 200 million years ago. Tuataras have a distinctive spiny crest along their back and can live for over 100 years, making them one of the longest-living reptiles. Tuataras are primarily nocturnal and are known for their slow growth and low reproductive rate. They primarily feed on insects, small birds, and their eggs. Unlike most reptiles, tuataras have a third eye, known as a parietal eye, which helps them detect light and regulate their circadian rhythms.