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July 21, 2023

Can Turtles Jump? Science-Based Facts & FAQ

You can’t underestimate any animal, not even the humble, slow-moving turtle. Saddled with a cumbersome shell, turtles have a reputation for being some of the most incapable of the animal kingdom’s athletes. But looks can be deceiving, and many people are caught off guard the second they see one of them hop in the air. Turtles can jump several inches in some cases.

While it’s exciting to see, a jumping turtle can also be problematic. Wander too close to a snapping turtle, and it could take a quick leap in your direction to take a nip at you. And in the home, overestimating your tank’s ability to contain your turtle can often result in a missing pet! To keep you and your reptile friends safe, we’ll explain the intriguing details surrounding whether turtles can jump.

Can Turtles Jump?

They don’t gain much hang time, but turtles can jump. Although the heavy shell may make them seem hopelessly ground-bound, it surprisingly only accounts for roughly 25–35% of the turtle’s weight. Turtles can generate enough force to push themselves about 1–4 inches off the ground by bending their legs as much as possible.

A turtle’s jump often pitches its front end high while its rear legs stay closer to the ground. Their legs are short and mostly inflexible. Paired with the awkward shell, they ensure no turtle can make a significant leap.

When Do Turtles Jump?

a red-eared slider turtle with peeling shell basking on a rock — Image Credit: Four Oaks, Shutterstock

Fortunately, while they’re jumping skills are meager, turtles don’t have to use them often. In most instances, they’ll only jump for a few reasons, including:

They feel scared or threatened
They need to traverse an obstacle
They need to enter the water

Even that last one is a bit of a stretch. Instead of attempting a controlled leap to get into a pond, turtles typically either lumber at full speed into it or gracelessly fall face-first off an overhanging ledge.

Can All Turtles Jump?

Only small–medium turtles, such as freshwater terrapins, are light enough to boost themselves in the air. Some of the more agile turtle species include Red-Eared Sliders, Box Turtles, Map Turtles, and Mud Turtles. Like tortoises, many semi-aquatic turtles can also dig and climb, often able to scale fences and trees.

The common Snapping Turtle is one of the more sizeable and startling turtles to be able to jump. Weighing 10–35 pounds and known for their finger-removing bite force, these formidable creatures can hop several inches as a defensive strategy. Snapping turtles react faster than you might expect, emphasizing the need to keep a safe distance from the business end.

How High Can Turtles Jump?

two turtle hatchlings in the aquarium — Image Credit: Rusinova Tatyana, Shutterstock

No matter the species, turtles have limited jumping ability, and some can’t elevate even the slightest bit. Smaller turtles that jump only achieve 1–2 inches, while snapping turtles and other moderate-sized jumpers can hop 4 inches or more.

A turtle’s jump isn’t straight up. The limited movement in the back legs and their inability to angle their bodies forces turtles to jump in only one direction—forward. They can twist their bodies to a minute amount left or right, with their back legs almost working as a swivel.

How to Stop Turtles from Jumping

Watching turtles jump in nature can be exciting, but it’s not a behavior you want from a turtle in your tank. Turtles may try to escape for several reasons. They’re naturally curious and yearning to explore, but issues like stress or an unsuitable living environment can also boost their motivation to get out.

Ensure Their Environment Is Suitable

Turtle under a heat lamp in cage — Image Credit: Liubov Sydorenko, Shutterstock

Attending to the turtle’s needs is the first step in keeping your turtle from trying to jump out of its enclosure. They need clean water, climate control, and numerous unique features in their habitat, like basking areas and hiding spots. But even with their basic needs met, you often have to take extra steps to protect them from a nasty fall over the side of your tank.

Adjust the Water Level

Since a pet turtle’s “jump” from the tank is more of a “climb-and-fall” maneuver, you don’t have to worry about them vaulting over the edge. Your easiest option may be to lower the water level so they can’t get their feet over the lip of the tank.

Depending on your setup, draining some water could limit your turtle’s comfort or access to items. In these situations, you can maintain the same water level without risking an escape by adding a cover.

Cover the Tank

Open-hole designs like egg crate panels make a perfect lid for a turtle tank. They are easy to cut to size, have wide holes to let in light, and are rigid enough to create a dependable seal. You can also use a screen or other flexible mesh, but they allow turtles to squeeze through. You must either create a rigid frame for the screen to hold it or add a locking system that keeps it tight against the tank.

Final Thoughts

Despite only grabbing a few inches of air, any turtle jumping is an impressive feat. That doesn’t mean you should goad them into it, nor should you expect amazing things from them. Turtles often still need our help in precarious situations, whether they can jump or not. But if you come across a snapping turtle in nature or keep one as a pet, appreciating their surprising agility could be critical in keeping both of you safe.

Featured Image Credit: scuba design, Shutterstock

The post Can Turtles Jump? Science-Based Facts & FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

July 21, 2023

Fat Turtles: 4 Vet-Approved Signs of an Overfed Turtle

Any animal, especially the dearest ones that we keep in our homes, should never be suffering with obesity. We are responsible for their health, and ensuring they are a healthy weight is part of that responsibility. That’s also true for your long-lived shelled companion.

But how can you tell if your turtle is tubby? There are four main signs to watch out for. Let’s look at each in more detail and discuss what to do if you realize that your little reptile is getting too heavy for its own good.

The 4 Signs of an Overfed Turtle

1. Your Turtle Looks Like It Could Use the Next Size Up

Your turtle’s upper shell (carapace) and lower shell (plastron) are made up of bony structures that meet on each side of its body. This creates a rigid skeletal box that is an integral part of the turtle’s body. In other words, it cannot change its shell at will.

This is normally not a problem, but if your turtle gains too much weight, its shell home becomes too small to fit its limbs comfortably. Therefore, if you notice folds of skin developing around its legs, especially when it tucks its legs into its shell, your turtle is likely getting too fat.

a female owner holding her pet turtle — Image Credit: Ivan Smuk, Shutterstock

2. Your Turtle Gets Locked Out of Its Shell

If your turtle’s legs and neck have so much fat that it can no longer retract into its shell, that’s a telltale sign that your turtle is getting dangerously overweight.

3. Your Turtle Can Barely Move

Observing how they move is another way to tell if your turtle is overeating. Indeed, the motility of your turtle will be affected by its extra pounds. Very obese turtles may not even be able to support their weight on land, and even in the water, the fluidity of their movements can also be severely hampered.

Turtle Eating Fruit — Image Credit: Maya Shustov, Shutterstock

4. Your Turtle’s Shell Has Small Pyramid-Shaped Humps

Pyramiding is the excessive upward growth of the scutes on a turtle’s shell. This condition is relatively easy to spot: Just look for small pyramid-shaped bumps on the shell.

That said, be careful not to jump to conclusions. This disorder is common to several species and is not always caused by overfeeding. Other causes include:

Low humidity
Too much protein in the diet
Calcium-and-phosphorus ratio imbalance
Not enough exercise
Genetics

In any case, if you notice shell deformations on your turtle, it is imperative to consult a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.

Carapace deformities can interfere with normal lung function, cause pain in the legs and arthritis, and even lead to total paralysis. In the most severe cases, pyramiding can lead to the premature death of your turtle.

How Do Pet Turtles Get Fat?

Pet turtles can get fat the same way as any other living being: by eating too much and moving too little. If a turtle is kept in a tiny aquarium without enough room to swim and move around, and they are fed an excessive number of high-calorie foods and their intake is not limited, they can become overweight.

tortoise eating broccoli — Image Credit:
taniadimas, Pixabay

What Happens When Turtles Are Overfed?

Obesity and hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) are two conditions linked to overfed pet turtles. Obesity can dramatically shorten your turtle’s lifespan due to the strain on the body, increased risk of related health issues, and decreased overall vitality.

Excessive fat deposits can put pressure on the internal organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys. Over time, this can lead to organ dysfunction, reduced efficiency, and potential organ failure.

This is why you must start carefully monitoring your beloved turtle’s daily intake!

How to Prevent Obesity in Your Turtle

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent your turtle from getting fat at the expense of its health:

Tips to Prevent Obesity:

Check with your vet first. There may be an underlying health issue as to why your turtle is gaining weight, and suddenly changing their diet or forcing them to move more could be detrimental in this case.
Make sure their enclosure is big – and interesting – enough. Your turtle should have plenty of room to swim, dive, and roam. Your turtle’s enclosure should contain approximately 10 gallons of water per inch of adult shell length, and the basking/dry substrate area should measure half the water volume. For example, a red-eared slider can be around 10-12 inches at adulthood, so you would need to provide (at a minimum) 120 gallons of water and 60 gallons of basking area, per turtle. Enclosures and ponds with lots of different objects, plants and places to explore are the best way to provide your turtle with enrichment and exercise. Turtles kept in simple aquariums can become bored and depressed.
Feed adults every 2-3 days. This is more appropriate for their metabolisms. Any food that isn’t consumed after 10 minutes should be removed.
Stick to a fixed feeding routine. This will help you keep track of your turtle’s eating habits and prevent you from feeding it more than necessary.
Feed your turtle a balanced diet best suited to its age and species. Keep in mind that as they grow, juvenile turtles need to be fed a high protein diet daily, while adult turtles only need to be fed a few times a week.
Transform your turtle into a skillful little hunter. If it’s an omnivorous species, place live prey like small feeder fish or insects in their enclosure, and watch it try to catch it. It’s a natural and fun way for them to exercise, and a great source of enrichment!

vet. checking sick turtle — Image Credit: ALIAKSANDR PALCHEUSKI, Shutterstock

Conclusion

Turtles are not immune to problems related to overfeeding. However, their small size means that the consequences of being overweight can be disastrous. That said, the signs that a turtle is getting too fat are quite obvious once you know what you are looking for, and any responsible owner should be able to quickly identify if their pet needs a change in diet and more exercise.

The good news is that keeping a pet turtle at a healthy weight isn’t overly difficult: A balanced diet and an enclosure that keeps them entertained and occupied should do the trick.

Featured Image Credit: Dimitris Vetsikas, Pixabay

The post Fat Turtles: 4 Vet-Approved Signs of an Overfed Turtle appeared first on Pet Keen.

July 20, 2023

Can Turtles Flip Themselves Over? Facts & FAQ

Turtles are resilient reptiles that possess some remarkable adaptations that allow them to navigate even the most challenging situations. From their unique body structure to their resourceful problem-solving skills, turtles have developed ingenious ways to flip themselves back onto their feet. But, one common question that enthusiasts ask is whether or not these adorable creatures can actually flip themselves over, given that they have a thick tough shell on their back. So can turtles actually flip themselves over? Yes, they can. Keep reading as we discuss further.

Can Turtles Flip Themselves Over?

Yes. Turtles are known for their slow and steady pace, but when it comes to flipping themselves over, they can be surprisingly agile. While it may seem like an impossible task for these creatures with their heavy shells and short legs, turtles have developed some unique adaptations that allow them to sort of right themselves when they find themselves on their backs.

upside down turtle on the grass trying to flip over — Image Credit: SashkaB, Shutterstock

Reasons Why Turtles May Flip Over

Turtles can end up flipped over for a variety of reasons. One common cause is a slippery or uneven surface, such as wet grass or rocky terrain, which can make it difficult for them to maintain their balance. Another reason is when turtles are startled or frightened, they may retract their heads and limbs into their shells, causing them to lose their center of gravity and topple over. Also, mating behavior can sometimes result in turtles flipping over, especially during courtship fights which involve pushing and shoving between males.

How Turtles Try to Flip Themselves Back Over

So, how do they do it exactly? Well, when a turtle finds itself flipped over, it initiates a series of actions to try and right itself. The first step is for the turtle to extend its neck as far as possible, using it as leverage to rock its body from side to side. By shifting its weight, the turtle attempts to gain enough momentum to flip itself back onto its feet. If this method fails, turtles may resort to using their legs to push against the ground, using a combination of strength and coordination to roll their bodies over. It’s actually a super slow and laborious process, but turtles are persistent creatures and will continue their attempts until they succeed.

Challenges for Turtles That Are Flipped Over

Being flipped over can pose significant risks to turtles. One immediate and obvious danger is the vulnerability it exposes them to, as their soft underbellies are now exposed to potential predators. Flipped over turtles also face challenges when it comes to their mobility and ability to find food and water. The longer they remain in this position, the greater the risk of dehydration and starvation. In extreme cases, turtles may even suffer from injuries or develop health problems due to the prolonged stress on their bodies.

Should Humans Help Turtles That Are Flipped Over?

Yes, if it doesn’t place you in harm’s way. If you come across a flipped over turtle, there are several ways you can assist them. The first step is to ensure your own safety by approaching the turtle cautiously and avoiding any sudden movements that may startle it further. It’s important to remember that turtles can be easily stressed, so it’s best to keep noise and activity levels to a minimum. To help the turtle flip back over, you can use a flat object like a board or a shovel to gently lift and support its shell. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the shell, as it can cause serious harm to the turtle. Once the turtle is back on its feet, observe from a distance to ensure it moves away safely.

Old turtle shedding its shell — Image Credit: Pxfuel

Tips for Preventing Pet Turtles from Flipping Over

While turtles have their own mechanisms for flipping themselves back over, there are steps we can take to reduce the chances of them ending up in this predicament. One effective measure is to provide turtles with a suitable habitat that mimics their natural environment. This includes ensuring the enclosure has ample hiding spots and vegetation, as well as a mix of dry and wet areas for the turtles to explore. Additionally, providing a non-slip surface or adding rocks and logs for traction can help prevent turtles from slipping and flipping over. It’s also crucial to keep an eye out for potential hazards in their surroundings, such as steep slopes or deep-water bodies, and take appropriate measures to minimize the risk.

Other Common FAQs About Turtles

What do turtles eat?

One common question that people ask about turtles is what they eat. Turtles are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals – though some eat only plants. Their diet can vary depending on their species and habitat, but in general, turtles eat a variety of foods including insects, leafy greens, worms, fish, fruits, and vegetables.

Do turtles have teeth?

Turtles don’t actually have teeth. Instead, they have sort of a beak-like structure that helps them eat their food. This beak is made up of a hard, keratinous material that allows turtles to bite and chew their prey. While turtles may not have teeth, they’re still able to consume a wide range of food, including plants, insects, and small animals. They use their beak to bite off pieces of food and then swallow it whole or chew it with their strong jaw muscles.

Do turtles bite?

Yes, turtles can bite (with their beak), but it’s important to understand the context in which they may do so. Note that not all turtles are aggressive and prone to biting. In fact, most turtles are known for their peaceful and gentle nature. They’re more likely to retreat into their shells or swim away when they feel threatened, rather than resorting to biting. However, there are instances where turtles may bite.

One common scenario where a turtle may bite is when it feels threatened or cornered. Like any animal, turtles have a natural instinct to defend themselves when they feel in danger. If a turtle feels trapped or scared, it may resort to biting as a means of protecting itself. Although turtle bites can occur, they’re generally not severe. Most turtle species have sharp beaks that allow them to tear through vegetation and prey, but their bites are not powerful enough to cause significant harm to humans – though bigger turtles/tortoises definitely can.

diamondback terrapin turtle — Image Credit: Miiko, Shutterstock

Do turtles make good pets?

While turtles can be fascinating pets, they are not suitable for everyone. Turtles require a significant amount of care and attention, and their long lifespan means that they are a long-term commitment. Additionally, some turtle species can grow quite large and may require a large enclosure or even an outdoor space to live in. Before getting a turtle as a pet, it is important to research the specific needs of the species you are interested in and ensure that you are able to provide the necessary care.

Do turtles blink?

Turtles actually have a rather unique way of protecting their eyes. Unlike humans and many other animals, turtles do not have eyelids. Instead, they have a clear membrane called a nictitating membrane that covers and protects their eyes. This membrane acts as a shield, keeping their eyes moist and preventing debris from entering. While turtles do not blink in the traditional sense, they do have the ability to close their eyes partially or fully when they are feeling threatened or need to rest. This mechanism allows them to maintain their visual health and eye safety.

Why are turtles so slow?

Well, not all turtles are slow. For example, the Eastern Box turtle is actually pretty speedy (check out the videos of it running on YouTube). But, there are a few reasons behind their sluggish nature. First, turtles have a unique body structure that contributes to their slow movement. Their heavy shells and short legs make it difficult for them to move quickly. Additionally, turtles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. This means that their metabolism is slower compared to warm-blooded animals, resulting in slower movements. Lastly, turtles have evolved to be slow-moving creatures as a survival strategy. Their slow pace helps them conserve energy and avoid predators in their natural habitats.

Do turtles urinate?

Yes, turtles do actually urinate. Turtles have kidneys that filter waste products from their blood–just like humans. These waste products are then excreted from the body in the form of urine. Urine is a liquid waste that is composed primarily of water and dissolved substances such as urea and salts. Turtles have specialized structures called cloacas, which are used for both excretion and reproduction. The cloaca serves as a common opening for the urinary and reproductive systems. So, while turtles may not urinate in the same way that mammals do, they still eliminate waste through the process of urination.

Wrapping Things Up

Contrary to popular belief, turtles are not helpless creatures when it comes to being flipped over. With their unique body structure and resourceful problem-solving skills, they have developed ingenious ways to flip themselves back over themselves when they’re stuck upside down. However, it’s important for us as humans to be aware of the dangers and challenges turtles face when they find themselves flipped over. By taking preventive measures and helping them when needed, we can contribute to their safety and ensure they continue to thrive in their natural and captivated habitats.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: nineyoii, Shutterstock

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