Turtles, terrapins, and turtles are reptiles that belong to the order Testudine. These terms are often confused because the shape of these animals is indeed similar. These animals can generally be classified according to their habitat, body type, and behavior: turtles live in water (both freshwater and saltwater, depending on the species) and on land, terrapins live in both freshwater and land, while turtles live entirely on land.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Checking Your Living Environment
Step 1. Pay attention to the length of time spent in the water
Turtles spend most of their time in the water. Depending on the species, sea turtles can live in fresh water (ponds or lakes) and sea water.
Step 2. Notice if the reptile lives on land
Turtles are land creatures. Some turtles live far from water sources, such as deserts.
Step 3. Observe if the reptile inhabits the marshy area
Terrapins spend time on land and water. However, they live in brackish water like swamps. The term terrapin sometimes refers only to species living in eastern and southern America such as the Diamondback Terrapin, or the Red-eared Terrapin (also known as the Red-eared slider. These reptiles are often kept as pets)
Step 4. Look at where and how the reptiles bask
Turtles and terrapins will leave the water to bask on logs, rocks, and other surfaces. Sea turtles usually spend time in the water, but while sunbathing they will climb onto beaches, reefs and other similar areas.
Method 2 of 3: Checking Body Type
Step 1. Examine the reptile's feet
Turtles and terrapins tend to have flat, webbed feet for swimming, especially sea turtles that have adapted to living in water having efficient swimming bodies and long fin-like legs. In contrast, tortoises have blunt and stout legs for walking on land. The hind legs of turtles resemble elephants, while the front legs are shaped like shovels that serve to dig.
Step 2. Determine the type of reptile shell
Turtles, terrapins and tortoises have scaly skin and protective shells. Turtle shells are usually hard and thin (except in some species such as the leatherback turtle). While the shells of turtles are usually round and domed, in contrast to the shells of turtles and terrapins which are more flat.
Step 3. Look at the characteristics of reptiles
If you think you're looking at a particular species of turtle, tortoise or terrapin, look for any distinctive features or markings on the reptile's shell or body. As an example:
- Diamondback Terrapin, has a shell shape resembling a gem.
- The Red-eared Terrapin can be identified by the red stripes on each side of its head.
- The Alligator Snapping Turtle has a shell with sharp spikes on its back.
Method 3 of 3: Observing Reptile Behavior
Step 1. Watch for periods of reduced reptile activity
Turtles will bury themselves in the mud during cold weather and enter a period called torpor (similar to hibernation). During this time, turtles do not do much activity. This period lasts until warm weather reappears.
There is evidence to suggest that terrapins also hibernate in the mud, or during periods of reduced reptile activity
Step 2. Pay attention to the reptile's diet
Turtle diets vary greatly depending on the species and the environment. In general, turtle food is plants, insects, and small animals. Turtles eat lower plants such as grass, shrubs and even cacti. The terrapin diet has not been fully studied.
Step 3. Observe the reptile nest
Turtles make burrows for nesting and laying eggs. Several species of sea turtles and terrapins that live on land and water, including sea turtles, all leave the water to lay their eggs on land.
Tips
- In Australia, only sea turtles are referred to as "turtles" (turtles), while species of turtles, terrapins and other turtles are referred to as "tortoises". In the UK, "turtle" refers to species that live in water., while "tortoise" refers to species that live on land. American English usually follows the same term, or all species are referred to as "turtles." All of these nonscientific names vary widely and are often inconsistent.
- Body size is not a good indicator to distinguish turtles, terrapins and tortoises because each category has a variety of species.
- If you already have a pet and are having trouble deciding on a breed, check with your veterinarian.
- Tortoises cannot be brightly colored (eg red), but turtles can.
- Do not pick up turtles or wild turtles unless these animals are in danger. Sometimes turtles and tortoises will excrete urine to repel predators and as a result these animals can become dehydrated and die if there is no drinking water nearby.
