A tortoise is a terrestrial reptile of the order Testudines characterised by a tough leathery shell covering the back and a smaller plastron covering the belly. Tortoises can vary in size from a few centimeters to two meters. They are usually herbivorous although some are omnivorous and one group the sea turtles is entirely carnivorous.
The term tortoise is derived from the Latin word testudo which meaning “testicle” or “testudo”. The earliest known usage of the word tortoise dates back to the late 4th century BC. The order Testudines includes both extant and extinct species. The first known members of the order appeared during the late Triassic period about 200 million years ago.
There are currently 12 families 56 genera and over 630 species of turtles and tortoises recognized by scientists. Worldwide turtles and tortoises are found in tropical and subtropical regions although a few species extend into temperate and cold-temperate zones. They inhabit a wide range of habitats including freshwater bodies brackish water and marine environments.
Turtles and tortoises are ectothermic animals meaning that they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. They are generally classified as amniotes which are a group of tetrapod vertebrates that lay their eggs on land. However some turtles and tortoises are ovoviviparous meaning that they retain the eggs inside their bodies until they are ready to hatch.
Turtles and tortoises are popular pets and their shells are often used as decorative objects. In some cultures they are considered to be a symbol of good luck.
Tortoise acquisition is the process of acquiring a tortoise which can be done through purchase capture or finding one in the wild. The most common method of tortoise acquisition is purchase which can be done from a pet store breeder or online retailer. Tortoise capture is another common method although it is illegal in many jurisdictions. Finally finding a tortoise in the wild is also possible although this is generally not recommended as the animal may not be healthy or suitable for captivity.
Is tortoise acquisition always legal?
No tortoise acquisition can only be legal if the tortoise is acquired through legal means.
How do people acquire tortoises?
People can acquire tortoises through a variety of means such as buying them from a pet store adopting them from a shelter or rescuing them from the wild.
Is it better to buy a tortoise or adopt one?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual tortoise and the person’s situation.
How much does a tortoise cost?
The cost of a tortoise varies depending on the species where it is purchased and whether it is wild-caught or captive-bred.
Wild-caught tortoises are typically more expensive than captive-bred tortoises.
What do tortoises need?
Tortoises needs vary depending on the species but all tortoises need a warm dry environment with access to food and water.
What kind of food do tortoises eat?
Tortoises are herbivores and their diet consists mostly of plants.
Some tortoises also eat small amounts of insects.
How often do tortoises need to eat?
Tortoises generally need to eat every day.
How much water do tortoises need?
Tortoises need a constant supply of fresh clean water.
They should have a water dish that is big enough for them to soak in if they want to.
How often do tortoises need to drink?
Tortoises generally need to drink every day.
How often do tortoises need to be bathed?
Tortoises do not need to be bathed regularly but they may enjoy a soak in a shallow dish of water every once in awhile.
How much space do tortoises need?
Tortoises need a large enclosure that is at least twice the size of the tortoise.
The enclosure should have a mix of both land and water areas.
What kind of enclosure do tortoises need?
Tortoises need a large enclosure that is at least twice the size of the tortoise.
The enclosure should have a mix of both land and water areas.
Do tortoises need to hibernate?
Tortoises do not need to hibernate but many species will enter a period of dormancy in the winter months.
How do I know if my tortoise is healthy?
Some signs of a healthy tortoise include clear eyes a clean shell and active movement.
What should I do if my tortoise is sick?
If you think your tortoise is sick you should take it to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.
