Turtles and Tortoises
Turtles and Tortoises
Deserts
ABout Turtles and Tortoises

MANY PEOPLE THINK TURTLES AND TORTOISES ARE THE SAME OR THEY DO NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. TURTLES CAN SWIM AND TORTOISES ARE STRICTLY LAND ANIMALS.

Both turtles and tortoises have a round head and a hard, oval shell. The majority of turtles have webbed feet for swimming while tortoises have round and stocky feet for walking on land. These aquatic species are found in oceans, swamps, freshwater lakes, ponds, and streams. Terrestrial species are found in deserts, forests, and grasslands.

Who’s at the Zoo

Australian snake-necked turtle, Burmese star tortoise, desert tortoise, Egyptian tortoise, leopard tortoise, northern spider tortoise, radiated tortoise.

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FACTS & STATISTICS
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average size
Up to 8 feet long, weigh up to 1,800 pounds
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Native Region
All continents except Antarctica
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Eating Habits
Varies, depending on species
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Conservation Status
Vulnerable to critically endangered
Where are they at the Zoo?
The Turtles and Tortoises are located in the Desert Dome.
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Come see for yourself.

Look no further. Connect with our amazing animals and learn about the wild places they come from.