* Oviparity: Eggs provide a protective shell that shields the developing embryo from the environment. They often have yolk sacs for nourishment and can be buried or hidden, further protecting the offspring.
* Viviparity: Viviparous animals give birth to live young. While this provides some protection from the elements, the offspring are more vulnerable to predators during gestation and birth.
* Ovoviviparity: Ovoviviparous animals retain eggs internally but give birth to live young. This offers some protection during development, but the young are still vulnerable at birth.
In summary: Eggs provide the most physical protection for land-dwelling offspring, as they create a barrier between the embryo and the environment.