Pet Topics

Turtles have always fascinated many people in many ways. Their physical characteristics, behavior and potential life expectancy attract many to see these incredible amphibians.

Taking on turtles as pets is said to be very satisfying. Worshiping turtles has been practiced by many cultures long ago. In some countries, little ones and hatchlings are trapped and sold as home pets. Children and grown ups alike are both seen engaged in taking care of them.

Exactly what are turtles and how old do they get?

A turtle is the only reptile with an outer shell. Turtles are present in almost all warm regions of the world. Most of them thrive on land and freshwater while few frequent in oceans. The terrestrial kinds are commonly known as tortoise while aquatic ones may be called terrapins.

The turtles body, both organs and backbones, are encapsulated in the shell, giving protection to its head, neck, and limbs. As a turtle grows, the materials overlap the shell perimeter making it even harder. The shell is often strong enough to support 200 times a turtle’s weight.

It is believed that turtles have a long life-span, with some even reaching 100 years or more. In some species, the appearance of the shell may reveal a turtle’s age. Reproduction cycle involves mating of sexes, fertilization, egg-laying and hatching by females (which normally happens annually).

A Turtles main food source comes from both plants and animals. Its natural diet may consist of fish, earthworms, snails, tadpoles, leafy greens and other numerous aquatic plants.

Studies have proven that turtles are smart reptiles and have sensitive senses. They can feel vibrations and recognize patterns and colors. Their sense of smell appears good at close range especially when sensing food, but their sense of vision is minimal in some species.

Are most turtles good pets?

Since 1971, the United States has banned selling turtles that are less than 1/3 of a foot long. Turtles are commonly known to carry Salmonella bacteria which when coming in contact with humans may cause death. An example is a case in 2007 where a 4-year old baby in Florida died and it was linked to salmonella poisoning from a small turtle.

Turtles can be good pets but caution must be taken when selecting and handling. Make sure you wash hands before and after touching them. Refrain from bringing the turtle too close to any of your body parts especially the mouth. And try to keep it in one area as to not spread possible infections around your home.

Finally, taking care of turtles is not easy, but the efforts can be very rewarding. Turtles, just like dogs and cats, can recognize their caretakers. When trained, they can follow simple instructions and develop habits. They’re said to be playful and loyal.

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