What do you know about Turtle, Tortoise and Terrapin?

Turtle, tortoise, and terrapins look almost the same physically. Apart from that, what do we know about these amazing creatures?

Let’s do a comparison between them. This will help us know both their similarities and differences.

Turtle
Turtle
Tortoise
Tortoise
Terrapin
Terrapin

Comparison table for Turtle, Tortoise, and Terrapin

Turtle Tortoise Terrapin
Habitat
§  They are mainly found in the sea and oceans.
§  They lay their eggs on the shores.
Habitat
§  They are mainly found on the land.
§  They are mostly found in hot and dry areas.
Habitat
§  Just like the turtles, they live in water.
§  They are found in freshwater bodies.
Physical appearance
§  Their shell is much flatter and looks oval.
§  They have flappy feet.
Physical appearance
§  Their shell shape is somehow circular.
§  They have elephant-like feet.
Physical appearance
§, Unlike the turtle, their feet resemble those of the tortoise.
§  Their shells are flat and streamlined.
Diet
§  They are omnivores.
Diet
§  They are vegetarians.
Diet
§  They are omnivores.
Uniqueness
§  They have large upper eyelids that protect their eyes.
§  They do not have an external ear opening.
§  They will dig into mud during cold seasons and go into a torpor state.
§  Their life span ranges between 10-80 years
Uniqueness
§  They can retract their head under their shell.
§  They have been known to live for more than 150 years.
§  They are believed to have good luck.
Uniqueness
§  They have large upper eyelids that protect their eyes.
§  They do not have an external ear opening.
§  They are usually smaller than turtles.

 

What are some of the Similarities between Turtle, Tortoise, and Terrapin?

  1. They are reptiles and belong to the order, Testudinidae.
  2. They are all ectothermic hence their body temperature is based on the temperature of the air or water around them.
  3. All three lay eggs.
  4. They breathe air through their nostrils.
  5. They have scales.
  6. They have shells.
  7. They build nesting burrows and lay eggs.

Did you know that turtle, tortoise, and terrapins can be kept as pets?

Yes, they can be kept as pets. But they need a lot of attention and care considerations. If you are an animal lover and willing to go the extra mile to ensure comfort to your pets. You can try out these amazing animals.

Things to note if you consider petting Turtle, tortoise, and terrapins.

  • They are cheap to buy but expensive to maintain.
  • They have a very long life span, they will stick around for quite some time.
  • They are not very social hence allows you to interact with them during feeding time.
  • Their food has to be fresh.
  • For turtles and terrapins, they need fresh water.
  • Always be sure to pick the appropriate species.
  • If you are to release them into the wild, consider taking them to a zoo due to their limited adaptations. As a result of being raised by humans.

Nevertheless, the above should not affect your decision to pet them. Little TLC goes a long way for all pets. Their long life span allows you to enjoy their company for many years. Unlike other pets.

#WorldSeaTurtleDay 🐢

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