Egg-laying animals

Many animals reproduce by laying eggs. Depending on the species, eggs may be laid in nests, water, soil or sheltered places. The way the young develop varies between animal groups.

Which animals lay eggs?

Birds do, as do many reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, crustaceans and molluscs. Egg-laying mammals include platypuses and echidnas. Familiar examples include chickens, penguins, many snakes and frogs, egg-laying shark species, bees, crabs and octopuses.

Some snakes and sharks, however, give birth to live young.