Terrestrial turtles. Turtle: brief information Land turtle message

The turtle is an ancient animal from the order of reptiles. It appeared more than 200 million years ago and, according to scientists, has remained virtually unchanged over the past 150 million years.

The main distinguishing feature of a turtle is its shell. This is a complex bone-skin formation that covers the turtle’s body from all sides, protecting it from attacks by predators. The inner part of the shell is formed by bone plates, and the outer part is formed by leathery scutes. The shell consists of two parts - dorsal and abdominal. The dorsal part, or carapace, has a convex shape, and the ventral part, or plastron, is flat. The body of the turtle is firmly fused with the shell, from which only the head, limbs and tail protrude between the carapace and plastron. In case of danger, the turtle can completely hide in its shell. Turtles do not have teeth, but they have a strong beak, pointed at the edges, which allows it to bite off any food. Turtles, like some snakes and crocodiles, lay leathery eggs. Turtles do not care for their offspring. Immediately after laying eggs, they leave the clutch.

Diversity and lifestyle

There are more than 300 species of different turtles. Some of them lead a land lifestyle, and some have adapted to live in water. Freshwater turtles, unlike land turtles, have a more flattened and smooth shell, as well as membranes between the toes. This helps them skillfully swim in the water element. sea ​​turtles most They spend their lives in the seas and oceans. Only once a year, during the breeding season, they come ashore to lay eggs in the coastal sand. The limbs of sea turtles have evolved into flippers, which allow them to “hover” in the ocean depths.

Dimensions

Turtles vary greatly in size: the land spider turtle does not exceed 10 cm in length and weighs about 100 g, and the sea leatherback turtle reaches two and a half meters and weighs more than half a ton. The giant among land tortoises is the Galapagos elephant tortoise. The length of its shell exceeds one meter, and its weight can be four centners.

Coloring

The coloring of turtles is most often modest, camouflaging them with color environment. But there are species with very bright contrasting patterns. Thus, in the radiated tortoise, in the center of the scutes of the shell, against a mainly dark background, there are striking yellow spots, from which the same yellow rays extend. The head and neck of the red-eared slider are decorated with a pattern of wavy lines and stripes, and behind the eyes there are bright red spots.

Diet

Land turtles mainly feed on plant foods - grass, leaves of bushes, juicy fruits. Freshwater and sea turtles are predators that eat fish, insects and their larvae, worms and shellfish. Land turtles can supplement their diet with animal food, while aquatic turtles can supplement their diet with plant food.

Lifespan

The turtle is a long-living record holder among vertebrates. She can live more than a hundred years. There is a reliable case where a gigantic tortoise lived for 152 years. Scientists say that a turtle can live two hundred or more years.

Turtle: brief information

The turtle is a beautiful animal belonging to the order Reptiles. Turtles count ancient creatures, which were among the first to appear on earth. IN wildlife these animals live in the tropics, as well as in places with a predominant temperate climate. Turtles can live both on land and in water.

To date terrestrial species began to be actively used as pets. Let's look at the main types of domestic turtles.

Terrestrial turtles are divided into two types:

• land;
• freshwater

Types of land turtles

Central Asian tortoise

Among the species of domestic turtles, this animal is considered the most popular. These are exactly the creatures that people most often see when visiting their friends and acquaintances. These are very clumsy animals that are characterized by extremely slow movement. It is worth noting that this turtle is listed in the Red Book, which means that its sale is prohibited by law. However, pet stores do not pay attention to this. In the wild, the main habitat is Central Asia.

The turtle has a light shell with dark scutes. The limbs are characterized by the presence of four fingers. To keep this species in a terrarium, it is necessary to maintain a temperature of about 30 degrees. It is also worth keeping in mind that from a psychological point of view these animals do not like enclosed spaces, it is this fact that explains the rapid death of turtles.

This species has about 20 subspecies, which are characterized by living in completely different climatic conditions. These turtles love warmth and direct sunlight. Each subspecies has its own characteristics: the size and color of the shell. The maximum size reaches 35 cm. On the back of the thigh of this turtle you can see a mound of horny tissue. The front paws have five toes, the hind paws have spurs. Keeping them in a terrarium involves maintaining a temperature of about 25-30 degrees.

Egyptian tortoise

These animals are extremely small. The maximum size of the shell is 12 cm. The color is yellowish with shields bordered dark stripe. There are no spurs on the hind legs. In the wild they live mainly in Egypt, Israel, and Libya. Like most other species, the temperature in the aquarium is required within 24-30 degrees. These turtles have some peculiarities in behavior. So, for example, when any danger approaches, the animal immediately buries itself in the sand.

Balkan tortoise

This species can be confused with Mediterranean turtles by its external features. The main difference is the small size of the shell, about 15-20 cm. The color of the shell is light brown with dark spots. The younger the turtle, the brighter its color. One more hallmark worth considering conical spike, which is located at the end of the tail. The main habitat in the wild is Southern Europe, namely the coast Mediterranean Sea. It is worth noting that turtles that live to the west are much smaller than those located in the east. At home, keeping the species is possible at a temperature of 26-32 degrees.

Types of freshwater turtles

European marsh turtle

This species has 13 subspecies. The turtle's shell is low and smooth. The length of the animal is about 35 cm, the average weight of individuals is approximately one and a half kilograms. The color of the shell of turtles is dark green. The head, neck and paws are covered with light spots. The fingers have large, sharp claws and webbing. View characterized by a fairly large tail, the length of which is ¾ of the length of the turtle’s entire body.

In the wild, these animals can be found in different regions of Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Georgia, etc. Ideal habitat conditions for the species are lakes and ponds. Individuals are most active during the day. The species is one of those listed in the Red Book. Keeping it at home requires a temperature of 22-25 degrees and air temperature of about 30.

Pond slider

Of all the species, city dwellers most often breed this one in their aquariums and terrariums. All 15 subspecies red eared turtles classified as so-called decorated. They received this name because of the red or yellow spots that are located near the ears. The size of individuals is about 18-30 centimeters. Young turtles have a lighter color shell. The head and paws are decorated with stripes of rich green color. The species has sexual differences: males have a more powerful tail and nail plate.

In the wild they are found in Mexico, America, the USA, and less often in Australia, Spain, Great Britain, and Israel. Optimal environment Habitats: marshy shores of water bodies and ponds. Individuals of the species are very lazy, slow and inactive. At home, turtles must be kept at a water temperature of about 28 degrees, air temperature of 32.

Far Eastern turtle

Another name for the species is Chinese Trionix. These individuals are the exception to all the rules. The fact is that, unlike the usual hard shell, these turtles have a soft “house”. Dimensions reach 20 cm, the surface of the shell is leathery, soft, without scutes, green in color.

This is not to say that the shell is the only part that can surprise this species. A little It’s unusual to see a trunk instead of a nose and observe the presence of only three toes on the paws. If somewhere in China a small trunk sticks out of a pond, you need to remember that this is a feature of Far Eastern turtles. At first glance, this species is very cute and completely defenseless, but they have a secret here too. Trionix's jaws have special sharp edges, thanks to which the animal can grab prey. In addition, it is worth noting the increased mobility of individuals and the speed of reaction.

For humans, these turtles are also very dangerous, as they often show aggression, bite and are very difficult to tame. The only option to find mutual language with individuals – rearing in captivity from birth. Main habitats: China, Japan, Far East Russia. The most popular habitats are bodies of water characterized by weak currents. Chinese and Japanese The meat of these turtles is highly valued and consider it a delicacy. Closed terrariums for keeping at home require maintaining a water temperature of about 26 degrees and an air temperature of 32.

Caspian turtle

Individuals of this species have a flat, oval shell with an average length of 30 cm. The color is dark green with yellow stripes. Stripes can also be noted on the head and limbs. Also the species has sexual differences: males have a concave carapace and a thicker and a long tail.

In the wild they are found mainly in Southern Europe, Arabian Peninsula, Caucasus, Iraq, Iran. The most favorable habitat conditions are bodies of water with both fresh and salt water, with the presence of coastal vegetation. This species of turtle has unique ability- climb mountains high altitudes, and also live about 30 years. To keep them at home, a certain temperature is required: water -18-22 degrees, air - 30-32.

• ultra-violet rays;
• required water and air temperatures;
• terrarium or aquarium;
• the ability of aquatic turtles to come onto land.

Thus, today there are quite a lot of species of domestic turtles. Each of them requires certain care and has its own characteristics. The choice always remains with the person, who has the right to choose which pet will delight the eye every day.

Evgeniy Sedov

When hands grow out the right place, life is more fun :)

Content

Exotic pets are a popular trend. land turtle When kept at home, it will not bring owners any special worries if the proper conditions are initially created, and then you monitor the diet and carry out procedures for caring for the animal. These reptiles make virtually no noise or smell, and with proper care they live for several decades.

Who is a land turtle

The animal received its name for its strong shell; it comes from the Latin Testudinidae - brick, tile. The hard shell covers the back (carapace) and belly (plastron). The shell serves as protection and can withstand a load that is 200 times the weight of the turtle. The size of the individual depends on the species. There are both very small representatives up to 10 cm long, and giants up to 900 kg. The limbs are shaped to fit compactly inside the shell. Almost all species have a tail, and at its end there is a spur. Reptiles have well-developed hearing and color vision, which helps them get food.

The main types of land turtles:

1. Leopard - reaches a weight of 50 kg, the high shell has a spotted color.
2. The Central Asian tortoise is a small reptile, reaching a length of up to 20 cm. Its shell has a rounded shape of yellow-brown tones. The most common option for home care due to ease of care. It is also called the steppe tortoise.
3. Asian - has two subspecies: the depressed and brown turtle.
4. Mediterranean - common in Europe, up to 35 cm long.
5. Radiant - named for the characteristic geometrically regular yellow lines on the coal shell, a rare species from the Madagascar Islands.

Where does he live?

Land species prefer steppe, desert and semi-desert areas. They can be found in the following geographical areas:

• savanna and desert Africa;
• in North and South America;
• Asian and European countries: India, Greece, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan and others;
• in Australia and nearby islands.

How long does he live?

The lifespan of a reptile depends on living conditions and species. When answering the question of how long land turtles live, it is worth mentioning that in natural conditions some individuals reached an age of over 100 years. At home, everything depends on the conditions of detention. The more varied the diet and the better care, the longer the pet will live. Age can reach more than 30 years.

Photo of a land turtle

Land turtle at home

To keep a reptile indoors, it is important to create a comfortable environment by organizing a terrarium. It is worth considering the features of the life of turtles:

• animals molt, peeling of the old coat occurs in small quantities on the skin;
• may hibernate. Under natural conditions, this occurs due to changes in temperature and lack of food;
• They don’t like drafts and can easily catch a cold.

What to feed

IN wild conditions The steppe tortoise feeds on plant foods, supplementing its diet with protein elements: snails, worms, slugs. Feeding in unnatural environment should be as close to the regular menu as possible. When considering what to feed a land turtle at home, create a diet so that it includes not only grass, vegetables and fruits, but also feeding it with protein foods - small insects and meat.

The summer menu may include fresh seasonal products: clover, mushrooms, zucchini, dandelions, cucumbers, radishes, berries, sorrel, pumpkin. In winter, the basis of nutrition becomes steamed straw and available vegetables: cabbage, carrots, beets. Pets also need to be given fruit so that the body receives a sufficient amount of vitamins. The menu should contain special products with calcium. This could be bone meal or ground eggshells. Land pets satisfy their need for water from succulent food. Feeding is carried out once a day.

How to care

It won't require much effort. Caring for a land turtle at home is simple. For comfortable living, it is necessary to arrange a terrarium where it will stay most of the time. Periodically let your pet go for a walk around the apartment. Turtles are famous for their slow movement on land, so you can easily follow her movements.

When considering how to care for a land turtle, keep in mind that the reptile molts. During the period of coat change, it is necessary to bathe an animal with weak soda solution. It is worth trimming the claws using a special nail clipper. In winter, turtles may not have enough ultraviolet radiation; to do this, they are irradiated with quartz lamps, avoiding the rays getting into their eyes.

Terrarium for a turtle

It is not allowed for the reptile to be permanently on normal floor covering. You can organize an enclosure for walking by fencing the area. A turtle terrarium is an aquarium with a special substrate. The ratio of the length and width of the base should be selected based on the size of the largest individual. Dimensions should be 2-3 times larger than the reptile. The minimum length of an adult steppe tortoise is 20 cm, so sizes start from 100x50x30 cm.

The pan is filled with gravel, sawdust or sand, which will have to be changed as it gets dirty. It is important to arrange a bathing area on the territory of the terrarium so that your pet can take a bath. Maintain an acceptable temperature range of 25-35 degrees and sufficient lighting with a daylight lamp. If there is a lack of warmth, the reptile may go into hibernation. The humidity in the aquarium should be low, and the turtles themselves should be sprayed with a spray bottle once a day.

House for a turtle

It is worth organizing a shelter for your pet in the terrarium. It is intended for overnight stays. To do this you can:

• cut a hole in a plastic non-toxic box;
• build a house from boards;
• use half a flower pot.

Diseases of land turtles

Most pets get sick due to improper care or maintenance errors. The most common diseases, manifestations and how to treat them:

4. Conjunctivitis is manifested by tearfulness and redness of the eyes. Avoid drafts, and if you get sick, use drops.

Reproduction

Procreation in turtles requires special conditions. Mating is carried out in the spring, when the reptile has completed wintering. Successful breeding involves keeping one male and several females. They are kept separately; for reproduction, individuals of the two sexes need to be placed together so that they get used to their companion. Reptiles lay eggs from which offspring are produced. Incubation period– from 2 to 6 months, depending on the type.

Price

You can find out how much a land turtle costs by deciding on the species. The cheapest thing to buy is a Central Asian reptile. Exotic species turtles will cost more. The price of this pet ranges from 500 to 2000 rubles. Sales are offered by both specialized stores and private individuals who are engaged in breeding.

How to choose a land turtle

For home breeding they choose Central Asian (steppe) individuals. They are small in size - up to 20 cm long. The color of the shell of a young individual is yellow with round brown spots. Pay attention to activity. The turtle is awake in the morning and evening, and rests in a shelter during the day and night. The animal must look healthy and have no skin defects.

How to determine gender

Main gender differences:

1. The shape of the shell is more elongated in the male.
2. Plastron (lower part of the shell) - in males, near the tail, it has concave shape, which ensures mating. In females, the plastron is straight, which is necessary for bearing eggs.
3. Male turtles have a V-shaped notch on the top of their shell near the tail.

Video

In the family of land turtles (lat. Testudinidae), there are 10-13 genera (depending on taxonomy), including about 40 species.

About 20 species of land turtles live in Africa and 8 species in Southeast Asia. Several species can be found in Southern Europe, 3 species in South America and 2 species in North America. Most species of land turtles inhabit deserts, steppes and savannas. Some species can also be found in wooded areas.

Among land turtles there are: giant shapes reaching a length of a meter or more, as well as small animals 10-12 cm long.

The shell of these terrestrial animals is high, less often flattened. The head and thick columnar legs are covered with scutes and scales.

All land turtles are slow and clumsy. Unlike freshwater turtles in case of danger, they do not flee, but use only a means of passive protection - the shell.

In the wild, land turtles mainly feed on a variety of green vegetation, only occasionally diversifying their diet with invertebrates. If their diet includes succulent vegetation, they can go without water for a long time, but if possible, they drink with pleasure.

The central genus of the land turtle family is the land turtle (Testudo). These turtles are widely distributed in Africa, South America, southern and western Asia, and southern Europe. Apparently, the most ancient species can be considered the once numerous giant tortoises, rare specimens of which can still be found today in the Galapagos and Seychelles.

On Galapagos Islands lives (Testudo elephantopus). Adults weigh about 100 kg, and the weight of individual giants can reach 400 kg.

Testudo elephantopus

Various geographical forms gigantic turtle(Testudo gigantea) 200 years ago were found in the Seychelles, Madagascar, on the island. Rodriguez and on about. Isabela. Unfortunately, fishing for these majestic animals has led to their extinction on most of the islands. Today they can only be found on Aldabra Atoll.

Both Testudo elephantopus and Testudo gigantea are unsurpassed giants of the turtle world, but other representatives of this kind can have quite impressive sizes. It's about about African spurred(Testudo sulcata) and panther(Testudo cardalis) turtles, whose shell length can reach 70 cm.

Leopard, or panther, tortoises come from the savannahs of the South and East Africa. Their habitats are characterized by a large amount of diverse vegetation, where they prefer grassy areas covered with low bushes. These turtles are capable of climbing mountains to heights of up to 2000 m above sea level. The main background of the carapace of panther turtles is sandy yellow. Juveniles have a dark brown pattern on the carapace scutes.

The African spurred tortoise is often confused with the Mediterranean spurred tortoise. The latter is not only much smaller in size, but also has completely different requirements for the habitat. The length of the African spurred tortoise can reach 83 cm, and the maximum recorded weight is 105 kg. You can only keep a Spurred Tortoise at home if you live in a hot, dry climate and can provide the animal with a large area to graze outside of your home. This species of turtle digs huge holes and can dig under fences and house walls. The spurred tortoise requires a lot of fresh vegetation as food.

Another rather large turtle (shell length can reach 50 cm) with magnificent coloring - Madagascar radiated tortoise(Testudo radiata) Its high, dome-shaped black carapace is decorated with bright yellow rays stretching to the edges of the scutes. In addition to this species, Madagascar is inhabited by Madagascar beaked tortoise(Testudo yniphora) and a flat turtle (Testudo planicauda), characterized by its miniature size (shell length no more than 12 cm). The same tiny South African knobby turtle(Testudo tentoria). The southern regions of the mainland are also inhabited by two larger species - beaked turtle(Testudo angulata) and geometric turtle(Testudo geometrika).

The northern regions of Africa cannot boast the same species diversity of turtles as the southern ones. In North Africa, only two species of the Testudo genus are found: the Mediterranean tortoise (Testudo graeca) and the Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleimanni).

Mediterranean turtle besides North Africa, found in Asia Minor, southern Spain, the countries of the Eastern Mediterranean, the east of the Balkan Peninsula, and Iran. Prefers to live in semi-deserts, steppes, on mountain slopes and in dry sparse forests. The shell of the Mediterranean tortoise is convex, yellow or olive in color with dark spots on the scutes. There are spurs on the hips. The length of the shell can reach 35 cm. The basis of the diet is various vegetation, but if possible, it also eats invertebrates. Mediterranean turtle often kept at home. It is relatively unpretentious and, with plenty of warmth and proper feeding, lives in captivity for decades.

(Testudo kleinmanni) lives in the deserts of Northeast Africa. The length of this baby's shell is only about 12 cm. The carapace is colored yellow with dark spots. When in danger, the “Egyptian” quickly buries itself in the sand.

Central Asian tortoise(Testudo horsfieldi) lives in the steppes Central Asia, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, in northwestern India, as well as in the southern regions of Kazakhstan. It can be found in sandy and clayey deserts with thickets of vegetation, on cultivated lands and in river valleys. In foothill areas it can rise up to 1200 m above sea level.

Today, turtle lovers most often find this species. The most important thing when keeping a Central Asian tortoise at home is an abundance of warmth and light. green leaves, edible flowers, vegetables and fruits. With a clear schedule, they quickly get used to the place and time of feeding.

In winter, it is recommended to lay down the Central Asian turtle.

Kinix Turtles(genus Kinichys)live in tropical areas Central Africa. This genus has a very original shell structure: the rear third of the carapace (the lower side of the shell) is connected to the main part by a transverse tendon layer. They use this feature in times of danger as a mechanism to protect the soft, fleshy parts. The largest turtle of this genus, the toothed kinix (Kiniхys erosa), reaches a length of 30 cm. Without experience, it is quite difficult.

Flathead turtles(genus Homophorus) includes 4 species. They live in South Africa, where they are found in semi-deserts and dry woodlands. These are one of the smallest land turtles (shell length is about 10-11 cm). The largest species in this genus, Homophorus femoralis, grows to a maximum of 15 cm.

Another miniature turtle (Pyxis arachnoides), whose shell length does not exceed 10 cm, lives in the west of Madagascar. Spider turtle can be found in dry savanna woodlands or bush thickets. The anterior part of the reptile plastron is movably connected to the main part using a transverse tendinous ligament. This feature allows the animal to close in front when attacked by predators.

Another genus close to terrestrial turtles is the gopher (Gorherus). This genus is represented by (Gorherus coluphemus), which lives in the southern regions of the United States and northern Mexico, where they are found in dry sandy areas, dunes, and pine woodlands on sand. From land turtles This species is distinguished by flattened, strong front legs and wide and short claws, which are adapted for digging the ground (they can dig holes from 3 to 12 m). Gopher tortoises reach a length of 34 cm. The low, sometimes slightly lumpy shell is brown with light, fuzzy spots.

Found in Tanzania and Kenya elastic turtle(Malacochersus tornieri), which has a very unusual appearance. Its shell is formed by thin perforated bone plates and is soft to the touch. The underside of the carapace is strongly flattened and cut off almost vertically at the back, while the marginal scutes protrude back like serrated blades. The elastic turtle climbs well and climbs between stones, and when in danger, it hides under stones or in rock crevices. When you try to get it out of the crack, it becomes jammed with your feet, and perhaps even swells slightly.

One of the most interesting units The turtle is rightfully considered a reptile. Scientists who studied ancient remains in order to find out how many years she had been living on the planet found that their existence on Earth lasted more than 220 million years. These are rare animals that can live on land and in water. The turtle is a reptile that has 328 species, grouped into 14 families.

Origin of the name

If we consider the Slavic and Latin origins of the name of the reptile, it is easy to see the commonality. Both languages ​​demonstrate a response to appearance in the word: translated from Latin “tile”, “clay vessel”, “brick”; from Slavic - “shard”.

Indeed, many turtles resemble the stone for which the people who gave them this name mistook them. Despite this etymology of the name, it also contains an indication of the unique shape and color of the hard shells.

What do turtles look like?

In the diversity of turtle species, there are common characteristics for all that unite them into one order.

The main distinguishing feature of the order is the shell, which absolutely all representatives have. It consists of a carapace (dorsal) and plastron (abdominal), connected to each other. This durable device serves, first of all, to protect the animal from enemies. If necessary, the turtle is fully capable of hiding its body and head in it, lowering top part and remain protected from any attack against it.

The shells are covered with hard horny scutes, different in color and shape depending on the species. There are holes into which the paws, head, and tail extend and retract as needed.

The strength of the shell, as studies have shown, is so great that it can withstand a weight exceeding the weight of the animal by 200 times.

Reptiles molt periodically: the old skin peels off from their shell in scales, and the color becomes brighter.

How much does a turtle weigh? Turtle sizes

The turtle is a unique reptile. Some species can reach gigantic sizes - up to 2 meters, and weigh up to a ton. But there are also tiny representatives whose weight does not exceed 120 grams and size - 10 cm.

Each type of turtle has its own parameters, which we will talk about, characterizing them separately.

Paws

All species have four paws, which can be hidden in the shell if necessary.

The structure depends on the lifestyle and species. Terrestrial animals are distinguished by thickened front paws, suitable for digging soil, and powerful hind paws, which help to move along the surface. river turtle, living in fresh water, has membranes between its toes. The sea turtle, evolving, acquired fins instead of paws, and the front ones are much larger than the back ones.

Tail

Almost everyone has a tail, the length of which depends on the species and lifestyle. If necessary, the tail can be retracted into the shell.

For swimming reptiles, it serves as a kind of rudder that helps maneuver in the water, and is more developed than that of its land-based counterparts.

Head and neck

All turtles have a medium-sized head with a streamlined shape. When danger arises, many representatives of this class hide their heads in their shells. But there are turtles that have a fairly large head and cannot retract it.

Depending on the species, the front of the head can be elongated or flat, but it always ends with the nostrils.

The eyes are also positioned differently: in reptiles living on land, they are directed downward, while in swimming reptiles they are directed much higher. Animals have excellent vision and see this world in color.

Some turtles have enough long necks. In other representatives they are of medium size and are perfectly retracted into the shell if necessary.

Sometimes these animals, sticking their heads out of the water, are mistaken for huge snakes.

In many representatives of the species, the oral part begins with a hard beak-shaped process, with which they easily bite off even the hardest food and are able to catch prey. The edges of these processes can be either sharp or jagged.

But they don't have teeth. The chewing movements that reptiles make are necessary in order to move food into the pharynx. Language also helps them with this.

Despite the lack of teeth, turtles have powerful jaws that can handle almost any food.

Sexual characteristics of a turtle

The sex of turtles is determined by appearance and behavior, since these animals do not have clear genital differences, and it is almost impossible to figure out the sex at first glance. However, males differ from females:

• according to the shape of the shell (in females it is more elongated);
• the lower part of the shell is slightly concave in males, flat in females;
• the tail of males is longer, wider and thicker, it is more curved down;
• according to the shape of the anus;
• in males, the claws of the front paws are slightly longer;
• a small notch in the shell in the tail area is present only in males;
• The behavior of males is characterized by activity.

In some species, gender, in addition to the indicated characteristics, is expressed by the color or shape of the head.

In nature, these reptiles are completely herbivorous, carnivorous and omnivorous. Most eat both plant and animal foods.

Lifespan

On average, turtles live about 20-30 years in the wild. But it depends on the type of reptile. There are centenarians who can reach 200 years of age. As a rule, turtles live longer in captivity, but this also depends on the species and conditions of detention.

Types of turtles

The long stay of representatives of this order on the planet allowed them to divide into 328 species, differing external signs, size, habitat, nutrition and lifestyle.

The classification involves the division of reptiles, depending on how they hide their heads in the shell, into cryptonecks and side-necks. The first group presses their head into the shell by contracting the neck muscles. The second is folded to the side, under one of the front paws.

Another classification is based on the habitat of these reptiles:

• sea ​​turtle - lives in the salty waters of the seas and oceans;
• terrestrial - capable of living both on the surface of the earth and in fresh waters; this variety, in turn, is divided into freshwater and land.

This sea turtle chose the waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and even Indian oceans for its life.

There are two subspecies of these reptiles: Atlantic and eastern Pacific. Its elongated shell can be not only green, but also dark brown with yellow and white stripes or spots.

Reptiles got their name not from their external coloring, but from the color of the meat they ate.

The green turtle is one of the most large species. The length of its shell can reach up to 2 m, and its weight can reach 400 kg.

Juveniles live exclusively in water, where they feed small fish, mollusks, jellyfish. Adult reptiles come ashore, where they begin to feed on plant foods, which over time become their main diet.

The tasty meat of these animals was traditionally used for food (they are even called soup animals), which led to a decline in the population. Hunting them is currently prohibited in many countries.

The onset of puberty occurs after 10 years, sometimes much later. Reptiles mate in water, but lay their clutches on the shore, in the same places where their predecessors laid eggs. They dig very large holes in which they place up to 200 eggs. Small turtles, hatching, run towards the water. If they managed to get there, they will spend many years in the ocean, until the moment comes when they themselves have to go ashore to give birth.

If your pet is a sea turtle, keep in mind that caring for it at home is much more difficult than for land-based ones, since you need to have spacious aquariums with water adapted for the reptile.

Another name for this species is Chinese trionix, or Chinese tortoise. The Far Eastern turtle prefers to live on the silt-covered bottom of large lakes and rivers with gently sloping overgrown banks. Their habitat is Primorye, South part Amur in Russia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

The Far Eastern turtle is green-brown or green-gray in color with pale yellowish spots. Its usual size is about 30 cm, but there have been specimens up to 40 cm and weighing more than 4 kilograms. They have fleshy lips covering strong jaws.

The shell of these animals in young individuals has a rounded shape. It becomes flatter with age. Distinctive feature young individuals have a bright orange abdomen, the color of which becomes pale over time.

The Chinese turtle is capable of hunting both in water and on land, where it goes out to bask in the sun. These reptiles hibernate by burying themselves in the mud.

Feeding these predatory reptiles consists of fish, shellfish, amphibians and insects. The Far Eastern turtle can guard its prey for a long time by burying itself in the mud.

At the age of 6-7 years, the Far Eastern tortoise becomes sexually mature. Usually in July they lay eggs at a short distance from the water. During the season, the female makes several clutches, from which about 70 turtles emerge. After 1.5 - 2 months, babies appear, the size of which is no more than 3 cm. They quickly run to the water and hide for a long time in coastal vegetation and between stones.

The Far Eastern tortoise has enough aggressive character and can severely bite its attacker.

If with early age Since this turtle lives in a house, it easily gets used to a person and can even feed from his hands.

Living in the southeast of Eurasia, this steppe loves wet areas in river valleys, foothills, agricultural lands, sandy and clay semi-deserts. Animals dig holes or occupy empty ones.

Observations shed light on how many years this turtle lives. It turns out that life expectancy depends on its activity. At home in a closed terrarium, it is unlikely to overcome the 15-year mark, when in the wild it can live for 30 years. Not in the natural environment Central Asian tortoise, even if care and nutrition are as close to natural as possible, they live much less.

The Central Asian tortoise does not grow more than 20 cm, while males are slightly smaller in size than females.

This steppe turtle hibernates quite early: at the beginning of summer, immediately after laying eggs. This is due to the fact that this particular time in their habitat is the driest. Lack of food in sufficient quantities forces them to wait out in a state of sleep.

The Central Asian turtle has a very beautiful shell - reddish-olive with dark round spots.

Reptiles of this species are dark brown, dark olive, almost black in color with small yellow streaks or spots. Distinctive feature is a very long tail and no beak.

The habitat of these animals is unusually wide: they can be found in the European part of Russia, the Caucasus, Bashkiria, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and even in northwest Africa. They prefer forest, forest-steppe and steppe areas, the banks of slow-flowing rivers, and wetlands.

These reptiles are found in mountainous areas at altitudes of up to 1500 meters above sea level.

Say what it is aquatic turtle, it is forbidden. She prefers to get out onto land quite often and moves relatively quickly along it.

The diet of representatives of this species is unusually wide: it eats worms, mollusks, small reptiles, fish, and chicks waterfowl. She does not disdain carrion.

Depending on the region, they become sexually mature at the age of 5-9 years. Eggs are laid near water bodies. The sex of the offspring depends on temperature. When the levels are high, females are born, while when they are low, males are born.

Unfortunately, the clutches are attacked by predators (foxes, raccoons, otters, crows), who are happy to feast on both the eggs themselves and the small turtles.

Another name for these reptiles is directly related to their habitat - Seychelles giant turtle. This terrestrial animal is endemic to Aldabra Island.

The size of the shell of this large animal reaches a meter. It flaunts clearly defined shell segments, has fairly large legs that help it move on land, and a relatively small head.

Given its size, the reptile is a herbivore. Everything a turtle eats grows around it. She happily eats all low-growing bushes and grass.

There are currently only 150,000 left in the wild, so the reptile is protected. On the island where they live, not only hunting is prohibited, but also any economic activity.

Reptiles lay eggs from May to September, and they are able to regulate the population size: if there was not enough food, their clutches will contain only 5-6 eggs.

Is the most major representative your squad. These reptiles live only on the Galapagos Islands and are not found anywhere else. Their weight sometimes exceeds 400 kg, and the length of the shell reaches 2 m. They have fairly muscular paws, which have sharp claws (5 on the front and 4 on the hind). In case of danger, they pull their head and limbs into the shell.

At the end of the 20th century, the population of these animals decreased to 3,000 individuals, which became critical, so a decision was made to protect the reptiles.

Currently, there are two varieties of these reptiles, differing in habitat (relatively small individuals live in arid areas), size, color and shape of the shell.

Scientists actively researching the life of Galapagos endemics have identified Interesting Facts about turtles of this species: for example, what they can eat poisonous plants, which no animal eats. In some cases, they are able to live for several months without food or fresh water.

Mating and laying of eggs of these giants occurs at any time of the year, but peaks of activity occur in certain seasons.

This reptile is also called the yellow-bellied reptile. The water turtle received its original names solely for the bright accents in its color: there is a red spot on its head, and its abdomen is yellow.

There are 15 subspecies of these reptiles belonging to the American freshwater family.

The size of the animal depends on the subspecies and gender - from 18 to 30 cm, with males slightly smaller than females.

Its main habitat is America, but its presence is also noted in Europe (Spain and England), northern Africa, and Australia. For their life, they choose swampy areas with low banks, since this river turtle loves to get ashore and bask in the sun.

In Australia, the water turtle is considered a pest and its numbers are controlled.

The water turtle lays its eggs on land, where it digs out a spherical nest and places up to 20 eggs there. Reptiles of this species do not care about their offspring.

The water turtle feeds on insects, small fish, and worms. She chews her food with her head completely immersed in the water. If you have a water turtle living in your home, care and feeding should be consistent with its natural needs.

We have long found out how many years a turtle lives at home. If the maintenance and care are natural, it can easily live for half a century. In nature, this age is somewhat less.

One of the subspecies is the yellow-eared turtle. As the name suggests, its main decoration is bright color shell and a yellow spot in the area of ​​the auricle.

The yellow-eared turtle differs from its red-eared counterparts only in color. Their habitat, diet and reproduction are identical.

The yellow-eared turtle thrives at home. Maintenance and care do not require much time and do not cause much trouble for the owners.

Small in size (the maximum length of the shell is no more than 13.5 cm), the reptile has chosen the American continents.

Its dirty-brown shell has three longitudinal ridges, and light stripes are visible on its head.

It lives in small rivers with silted banks, where this river turtle hunts and lays eggs.

When the water temperature drops below 10 degrees, the reptile begins to dig a hole for hibernation. Unlike many species, muskies can sleep in groups. The period of sleep itself depends not on the season, but on the temperature: in the southern regions, where there is no low temperatures, this reptile is active throughout the year and does not hibernate.

If you have a musk turtle in your home, keeping it alone is not advisable. It is better to have several individuals at once. This will affect how many years the turtle lives at home.

The musk turtle is quite common in home aquariums; keeping, feeding and caring for it does not require much effort.

Where do turtles live? Habitat

Reptiles of this order live on almost all continents of the world. The only exceptions are Antarctica and desert areas, the climate of which is completely unsuitable for these animals. Any coast - be it the oceans or small rivers and lakes - can boast of its own view, or even more than one.

They find food almost everywhere: it can be insects, worms, small fish, crustaceans and vegetation. Its unpretentiousness in food makes the reptile able to survive in almost any place.

Even in reservoirs located in major cities, you can meet these animals. They go ashore to bask in the sun. During the breeding season, you can come across clutches of their eggs on deserted beaches.

A turtle is a reptile that has long settled in homes, becoming a favorite pet. Home care for this reptile is insignificant, so many people choose them for their home.

How many years a turtle lives at home, first of all, depends on the species, age of the animal that comes to you, and the conditions in which it will live. Comfortable existence and feeding as close as possible to natural habitat conditions will allow your pet to live long enough. If the turtle feels good in the house, and the maintenance and care are appropriate, then it can live up to 50 years.

Which turtle is best for a home?

Usually river reptiles become pets. A river turtle, once at home, adapts quite quickly. Its maintenance does not require an overly spacious aquarium, but it is very important to equip it correctly, creating a swimming area and dry land for your pet to go to when necessary.

• water (red-eared and yellow-eared);
• European (swamp);
• Central Asian (steppe);
• Far Eastern;
• musk turtle.

Keeping sea turtles in home aquariums is very problematic. Even young individuals require special water, reminiscent of ocean water. And for older adults, very spacious tanks are needed, since confined spaces the animal will not be able to be active enough, and this also determines how many years the turtle lives at home.

Before purchasing an animal, get to know useful information about him. Temperature, nutrition and care, activity and the ability to live alone or in pairs are very important for the reptile.

What does a turtle prefer to eat at home?

If you live pet turtle, nutrition, maintenance and care of her should resemble her natural look life. Before adopting a pet, study what it eats in nature and during what periods it is active.

Young individuals, as a rule, consume 70 percent of live food (food worms, insects, small crustaceans). Growing up, they switch almost completely to plant foods. Suitable for feeding:

• vegetables and their tops (tomatoes, peppers, pumpkin, carrots, and occasionally cucumbers);
• berries (strawberries, wild strawberries, watermelon);
• fruits (plums, peaches, apples, bananas).

Do not overfeed the animal! If you see that there is food left after feeding, be sure to remove it and subsequently reduce the portions.

If you have a turtle at home, caring for it must necessarily include cleaning the aquarium. Be especially attentive to leftover food: stale food can lead to intestinal upset, which will affect how many years a turtle lives at home.

• Representatives of this order of amphibians can boast that they have left their mark on the history of astronautics. Two individuals of the Central Asian tortoise species were the first among animals to fly around the Moon and return alive to Earth.
• The meat of these animals is a delicacy. But some species are not recommended for consumption. This happens because this turtle sometimes eats poisonous mushrooms or jellyfish. They do not eat the meat of box turtles, leatherback turtles and hawksbill turtles.
• Reptiles of this order can swim well and move on land. But european tortoise can also be called a jumper. She can jump into the water from three-meter mountain ledges.
• Turtles have their own long-lived lives. So in 2006 the most died old turtle Advaita, whose age, according to experts, was more than 150 years.
• Many people wonder how long a turtle can live without food. In the natural environment, determining this time is quite difficult. But for pets, this is a maximum of 3 weeks, taking into account the fact that the animal is hibernating. In nature, the sleep period can last several months. It is believed that at this time the reptile does not eat at all.
• During the period of courtship and mating, sea turtles stick their heads out of the water and make drawn-out sounds similar to howls.