Have you ever wondered if tortoises can really swim? Knowing the answer to this question is important—especially if you want to protect your tortoise’s health. Although the terms “tortoise” and “turtle” are often used interchangeably, they have some significant differences that every tortoise owner should understand.
Tortoises vs. Turtles
The term “turtle” generally refers to all egg-laying, shelled reptiles, including sea turtles, terrapins, and tortoises. However, there are clear differences between turtles and tortoises.
Sea turtles spend most of their time in the water and are excellent swimmers, while tortoises thrive on land. A closer look at their physical traits reveals why turtles are built for swimming, whereas tortoises are designed for a terrestrial life.
Shells
One of the major differences is the shape of their shells. Sea turtles have streamlined, lightweight shells that allow them to glide through water effortlessly. In contrast, tortoises have larger, domed shells that are heavier, making it difficult for them to move freely in water.
Feet vs. Flippers
Examine the feet of a sea turtle and you’ll notice they resemble flippers. Even though sea turtles often come ashore to nest, their flipper-like limbs help them swim efficiently in the ocean.
Aquatic turtles, such as terrapins, have webbed feet with claws, which allow them to move well both on land and in water. Meanwhile, tortoises have sturdy, elephant-like feet with bent legs and clawed toes. These feet are perfect for walking on land and digging burrows but are not suited for swimming.
Can Tortoises Swim?
Given their physical characteristics, it’s not surprising that tortoises are not good swimmers. Unlike sea turtles, tortoises lack flippers and a streamlined shell, so they are not built to move through water.
Over the years, sea turtles have evolved to glide smoothly through deep water, while tortoises have developed body structures optimized for life on land. Their heavy shells and thick, sturdy legs prevent them from staying afloat, let alone swimming in the ocean.
Can Tortoises Float?
There is a variety of information regarding whether tortoises can float, and it often depends on factors such as species, size, and age. However, experimenting with water is not recommended.
Tortoises are not designed to swim, and forcing them into deep water can cause stress and even drowning. For this reason, it is best to play it safe and prevent your tortoise from venturing too far into the water.
Understanding the Difference
It is important to understand that tortoises and turtles are not the same. Many incidents occur when people mistakenly place tortoises in water, assuming they can swim. Turtles, with their lightweight, streamlined shells and flipper-like limbs, are built for the water, while tortoises are land dwellers with heavy, domed shells.
If you are unsure whether the reptile in front of you is a tortoise or an aquatic turtle, look closely at the shell shape and the feet. Pond, sea, and freshwater turtles usually have a more streamlined design, whereas even baby tortoises have a distinct, rounded, and taller shell.
Water and Tortoises
Now that we know most tortoises cannot swim, let’s explore some details about their relationship with water.
- Can Tortoises Live Underwater? Absolutely not! While sea turtles can hold their breath for hours, most tortoises can only hold their breath for a few minutes. Leaving a tortoise underwater for too long can be extremely dangerous and may lead to drowning. For the safety of your tortoise, avoid exposing them to deep water.
- In the Wild: In their natural habitats, tortoises seek out shallow water sources for drinking or brief baths. They often linger at the water’s edge to cool off, especially on hot days. If you see shelled reptiles swimming freely, they are likely turtles, not tortoises.
Bathing Your Tortoise
Although tortoises are not swimmers, many enjoy bathing. You can bathe your pet tortoise in a sink, bathtub, or a large tub of water. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Water Depth: Provide only a small amount of water—about an inch deep—depending on the species and size of your tortoise.
- Safety: Ensure that the water level is shallow enough so that your tortoise’s head does not submerge. Always supervise your pet during bath time to prevent drowning.
- Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water; water that is too cold or too hot can make your tortoise uncomfortable.
- Cleanliness: It is normal for your tortoise to defecate during a bath. Clean the water afterward and return your tortoise to its enclosure once it is completely dry.
- Comfort: If your tortoise appears stressed or tries to climb out repeatedly, remove it from the water, dry it, and let it settle back into its enclosure.
Final Thoughts
Tortoises and turtles are two distinct species, each evolved to thrive in different environments. While turtles are excellent swimmers, tortoises are not built for aquatic life and are best suited to a terrestrial habitat. Understanding these differences is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of your shelled friend. If you confuse the two, you risk putting your tortoise in an unsafe situation that could lead to injury or drowning.
By being aware of your tortoise’s natural limitations and needs, you can take appropriate steps to keep your pet safe. Always provide a secure, dry environment for your tortoise and avoid exposing it to deep water. Instead, offer shallow water sources for drinking and occasional bathing.
For tortoise owners, knowledge is power. Make sure you understand your pet’s specific needs by doing thorough research and consulting with experts if necessary. This knowledge will help you provide the best care possible, ensuring your tortoise remains healthy and happy.
If you’re looking for supplies or advice on caring for your tortoise, consider visiting Kapidolo Farms. We offer a wide range of food and supplies specifically designed for tortoises. To learn more about our products, please email us at kapidolofarms@gmail.com or call us at 215-483-7675.
Remember, a well-cared-for tortoise will thrive in the right environment. By understanding the differences between tortoises and turtles and taking care not to place your tortoise in situations that may lead to harm, you can help ensure that your pet enjoys a long, healthy life on land.
