Did you know that today is World Turtle Day? May 23rd has been World Turtle Day since 2000! Thanks to the American Tortoise Rescue, this holiday was initiated to bring more awareness to tortoises, turtles, and how we can protect them. Watch this video to learn more about World Turtle Day.
We know there are many animal lovers at CHLC, so we thought this was the perfect opportunity to share some interesting turtle facts for kids. Discover new turtle facts for kids to share with your little learner!
10 Fun Facts About Turtles
1. All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises.
Here’s what makes them different: tortoises only live on land, not in the water. They also have unique shell qualities. Tortoise shells are more rounded and domed, while turtle shells are thinner and water-dynamic.
2. Turtles can live for a long time!
In fact, the world’s oldest known tortoise is over 190 years old! Learn about Jonathan, the giant tortoise (the world’s oldest land animal)
3. Turtles don’t grow out of their shells.
Unlike a hermit crab, turtles do not outgrow their shells—their shells grow with them!
4. Turtle shells are made up of over 50 bones.
This includes both the spine and rib cage.
5. The leatherback sea turtle is the largest turtle species.
On average, these turtles can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and swim as fast as 22 miles per hour! The biggest leatherback turtle ever recorded weighed in at 2,109 pounds.
6. There are over 350 species of turtles.
Turtles are found on every continent except Antarctica and live in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, as well as on land.
7. Texas is home to 25 native turtle species and 5 sea turtle species.
Because Texas is so big, it can support various species of turtles in different types of habitats.
8. Turtles don’t have teeth.
They use their beaks to break up food.
9. Turtles can sleep underwater, some for up to five hours.
They slow down their metabolism, heart rate, and oxygen use, which helps them rest underwater without needing to breathe.
10. Turtles eat both meat and plants.
Turtles are omnivores, which means they enjoy a mix of foods. Depending on the species, they might snack on fruits, veggies, grass, worms, bugs, crabs, fish, and more.
Common Kid Questions About Turtles
1. Why do turtles have shells?
A turtle’s shell is like armor. It’s part of their skeleton, supports their body, and keeps them safe from danger.
2. Can turtles come out of their shells?
No, turtles can’t come out of their shells. The shell is part of their body, made of bone and connected to the spine and ribs. It grows with them and protects them for life.
3. How long do turtles live?
Turtles are long-lived animals, with lifespans varying by species. Pet turtles often live 20–40 years, sea turtles can reach 50–100 years, and giant tortoises may live 100–150 years or more.
4. How many types of turtles are there?
There are over 350 turtle species worldwide, including freshwater, land, and 7 sea turtle species.
5. Why do turtles bask in the sun?
Since turtles are cold-blooded animals, they rely on sunlight to warm them and give them energy. The sunlight produces vitamin D to keep their shells and bones strong.
6. Where do turtles live?
Turtles live in lots of places! Sea turtles live in the ocean, freshwater turtles live in ponds and rivers, and land turtles live in forests, grasslands, or deserts. They can be found almost everywhere in the world except Antarctica.
7. How many eggs do turtles lay?
Small turtles usually lay just a few eggs at a time—often between 1 and 5. But big sea turtles can lay dozens (or even over 100!) in a single nest. Some sea turtles return to shore several times in one season, laying hundreds of eggs total!
Turtle Gifts for Kids
If your child wants to learn more about turtles, here’s a list of turtle books they might enjoy. And if your kiddo still can’t get enough of turtles, here are some turtle gift ideas that you can keep in mind for their birthday or Christmas!
Shell-abrate What You’ve Learned!
Turtles are truly amazing animals with so many fun and surprising facts! From their super long lifespans to their built-in shells and underwater adventures, there’s a lot to learn about these gentle creatures. Now that you know more about turtles, keep exploring and share your favorite turtle fact with your child. Inspire a love for learning in them today!
If your kids love reading about creatures of all kinds, check out our favorite children’s books about animals!
