Reptile life on Socotra is extremely endemic. Of the 22 known species of reptiles, 19 are unique to the islands. These include several species of gecko and the single species of chameleon (Chamaeleo monachus). Most of the snakes on the islands are small and unobtrusive, such as the several species of blind snakes. These tiny snakes often dwell in termite nests. There is no tortoise on the island, but green turtle (Chelonia mydas) are thought to nest on coast.
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