There’s a popular saying among sea lovers: All turtles are at home in the sea. But do they drink the salt water that fills their abode? Indeed, sea turtles can drink salt water. They possess special glands in their bodies that filter out and excrete the excess salt, which makes it possible for them to…
In the wild, turtles find their sustenance from a variety of sources, including both plants and small aquatic animals. Many start wondering, do turtles actually drink milk? No, turtles do not drink milk. Turtles are reptiles and lack the ability to process lactose, which is present in milk. Their natural diet does not include any…
With turtles’ hard shells and dinosaur-like demeanor, one may question: did turtles evolve from dinosaurs? The answer is no, turtles didn’t come from dinosaurs. Both dinosaurs and turtles belong to the group called “Reptilia”. But they’re from different branches. Turtles belong to the group “Testudines”, and dinosaurs belonged to “Dinosauria”. They co-existed, but they do…
Snapping turtles are a fascinating species, often known for their tough demeanor. But when it comes to care and nurture, do snapping turtles raise their young? No, snapping turtles do not raise their young. After laying eggs, the female turtle leaves and does not return. The hatchlings must fend for themselves, making it a life…
They glide effortlessly through ocean currents and dive into the deep with relative ease, but how do sea turtles manage? Do they have fins, or is it something else? Indeed, sea turtles do have fins! They have two larger front flippers for propulsion and two smaller rear ones for steering. However, unlike fish fins, sea…
Green sea turtles are majestic, capable swimmers renowned for their longevity and distinctive coloration. But one question often arises: do green sea turtles have scales? The answer is yes, green sea turtles do have scales. These scales, scientifically known as scutes, are a protective covering on their skin, most prominently seen on their carapace (shell)…
Most of us are intrigued by the turtle’s gentle, peaceful appearance, and curious demeanor. But one question often comes to mind when interacting with a female turtle: Do female turtles bite? Yes, female turtles can bite. However, most turtles are quite docile by nature and would only bite when they feel threatened or scared. It’s…
Just like humans, box turtles need to keep themselves hydrated. But does this mean they absorb water? The answer is yes, box turtles do absorb water, but not in the usual way humans do through drinking. Instead, they absorb water through their cloaca, an organ used for excretion and mating. Stick around and we’ll dive…
Turtles are intriguing creatures, particularly when we delve into their procreation process. One question pops out frequently: do all turtle eggs hatch at the same time? Not all turtle eggs hatch simultaneously. The hatchlings usually emerge in staggered groups over a period of several days to a few weeks, depending on species, environmental conditions, and…
Turtles are intriguing creatures that have drawn many to keep them as pets. One of the frequently asked questions about turtle care is about their bedding: Can you use bedding for a turtle? Yes, you can use bedding or substrate for turtles. It is crucial for their habitat as it aids in moisture retention, encourages…