Turtles, Terrapins, and Tortoises: Whats the difference

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Turtles, Terrapins, and Tortoises Whats the
difference?

• Created by J. Longsworth
• April 2004

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There are about 200 different kinds or species of
turtles
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A turtle includes all tortoises, terrapins and
sea turtles
BUT
Tortoises include only those turtles that live on
dry land. Tortoises have feet like elephants
with tall dome shells. The tall dome shells are
stronger and allow for the tortoises to grow big.
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Terrapins are also turtles
BUT
Terrapins are only those turtles that live in
fresh water. Terrapins have webbed
feet. Terrapins have flatter, sleeker shells to
help them move fast in the water.
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Sea Turtles also live in the water
BUT
Sea Turtles do not live in fresh water. Sea
Turtles can only be found in ocean waters (salt
water). Female sea turtles come to land only to
lay eggs. Sea Turtles have flippers that enable
them to move quickly in the water.
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Turtle Facts

• Turtles have been around since the time of
  dinosaurs.
• Very little has changed about turtles over
  millions of years.
• Turtles are reptiles like snakes, alligators and
  lizards.

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Turtles Reptiles

• Reptiles have certain things in common
• They breathe air through lungs, like mammals
• Have thick scaly or leathery skin covering
• Are cold-blooded, which means they take on the
  temperature of air and water around them

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Temperature affects where land turtles live

• Cold Weather
• Turtles hibernate
• They store extra fat for energy
• They burrow in mud/ground at the bottom of ponds
  or marshes
• Turtles slows down its breathing, heart rate and
  body temperature

• Hot Weather
• Turtles seek shade
• Turtles also enjoy cool water
• (ponds, marshes, lakes, streams, etc).