Squamates, which include lizards and snakes, are named for their scales (squamatus = “scaly”). Their scales, which are part of their skin, are typically overlapping. As squamates grow, they periodically shed (molt) the entire outer layer of skin, in contrast to humans who shed skin in tiny flakes. Snakes rub against rough surfaces to loosen their skin and peel it back off head, limbs, and torso. The skin of squamates tends to be patterned with colors, which may help camouflage (e.g., green tree snakes) or warn predators of toxicity (e.g., coral snakes). Some squamates (e.g., anoles) have surface pigments that allow them to change colors. Scientists have discovered that squamate skin also has intricate textures, visible only through a microscope. Magnification reveals patterns of ridges, pits, or spines. The microscopic, branching hairs on the ridged toes of geckos have been found to help them cling to vertical surfaces, but the functions of many other squamate skin textures are unknown.