Tell the difference between a turtle and a reptile.
Turtles, tortoises and terrapins are related to each other.Because of regional differences in English, these terms are often confused.Scientific Taxonomy uses precise terminology to distinguish different species, but they can also be classified on the basis of habitat, body type, and behavior.
Step 1: It is a good idea to watch for time spent in water.
Turtles spend most of their lives in the water.A turtle can be found in fresh water or the sea.
Step 2: Determine if the reptile is on the land.
Land dwellers are tortoises.Some tortoises live far from major sources of water.
Step 3: If the reptile is in marshy regions, watch it.
Terrapins spend a lot of time in the water.They live in waters such as marshes.The term "terrapin" is only used to refer to certain species in the Eastern and Southern United States, such as the Diamondback Terrapin or the Red-eared Terrapin.
Step 4: Pay attention to where the reptile is.
Turtles and terrapins will leave the water to bask in the sun on logs, sand, rocks, and other surfaces.Sea turtles spend more time in the water, but will leave to bask on the beaches, reefs, and similar areas.
Step 5: Look at the feet.
Turtles and terrapins have webbed feet.Sea turtles have long, flipper-like feet and are adapted for life in the water.Tortoises have stumpy feet for walking on land.Their front legs are shovel-like for digging.
Step 6: Determine the type of shell.
Turtles and terrapins have protective shells.The shells of turtles are hard and boney with a few exceptions.Turtle and terrapin shells are flatter than tortoise shells.
Step 7: Look for distinguishing marks.
If you suspect that you are observing a particular species of turtle, terrapin, or tortoise, look for markings on its shell or body that can help you figure it out.The Diamondback Terrapin has a diamond-shape pattern on its shell.The Red-eared Terrapin has a red stripe on each side of its head.The ridges on the alligator snapping turtle's shell are pointed.
Step 8: There are periods of reduced activity.
Turtles burrow into mud and go into a state called torpor.The turtles have minimal activity during this time.They will stay in this state until the weather warms up.In periods of reduced activity, terrapins may spend some time in the mud.
Step 9: Observe what the reptile eats.
Turtles can eat plants, insects, and small animals.Since they are land dwellers, tortoises eat low-lying plants such as shrubs, grasses, and cacti.The diet of terrapins has not been studied thoroughly.
Step 10: Determine the behavior of the birds.
Land-dwelling tortoises will lay eggs.Turtles and terrapins that spend time on land and in water will leave the water to lay their eggs.