Pet turtles and tortoises: Learn the difference

If you want to have a pet turtle or a tortoise, then you need to pick wisely.

While they seem pretty similar, they have differences in their diet and behavior.

Here are some details that make them different.

Habitat

Turtles are adapted for life in water and generally have webbed feet or flippers, so they can swim efficiently.

Tortoises, on the other hand, are primarily terrestrial and inhabit dry land areas.

Shape

Turtles typically have a more streamlined and flat shell that aids in swimming.

Tortoises have shells that provide protection and allows them to easily hide their head, limbs, and tail fully into the safe space.

Diet

Turtles can eat a combination of plants and small animals such as insects, worms, and fish.

Tortoises, on the other hand, mostly eat plants, consuming a diet consisting mainly of vegetation, such as grasses, leafy greens, and fruits.

Behavior

Turtles are generally more active and agile in the water, swimming and diving for extended periods.

They have adaptations for aquatic life, including strong swimming abilities and specialized respiratory systems for extracting oxygen from water.

Tortoises are adapted for slow and steady movement, because they live on land.

They are known for their ability to navigate various terrains and dig burrows.
 

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• 5 June 2023

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