What's the difference between a turtle and a tortoise?

Turtles and tortoises are often confused but they’re not the same animal. This World Turtle Day, we’re celebrating these remarkable reptiles by shining a light on what makes each unique and why both need protection.

Different homes, different lives

The key difference is where they live.

• Turtles spend most of their lives in water. Some, like sea turtles, travel thousands of kilometres across oceans. Others, like freshwater turtles, live in rivers and lakes.

• Tortoises live entirely on land. They roam deserts, forests and grasslands but they don’t swim and would drown in deep water.

Their bodies reflect these lifestyles. Turtles have streamlined shells and flippers or webbed feet for swimming. Tortoises have domed shells and sturdy, elephant-like legs, built for walking long distances on land.

What they eat

Most tortoises are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves and fruit.
Turtles, especially aquatic species, often eat a mix of plants, insects, and even small fish.

A long life ahead

Turtles and tortoises are both long-lived animals, but tortoises often live the longest. Some have reached over 150 years of age. That’s a lifetime of memories – if they’re allowed to live freely and safely.

Threats they face

These animals face serious threats mainly caused by people:

• Plastic pollution in the ocean chokes and kills sea turtles.

• The exotic pet trade tears tortoises and turtles from the wild and sells them into captivity.

• Habitat destruction leaves them with nowhere to live or nest.

Many species are now endangered.

What you can do

• Avoid buying exotic pets. Wild animals belong in the wild.

• Cut down on plastic. Bring your own bag, bottle and cup.

• Share what you’ve learned. Tell a friend the difference between turtles and tortoises.

Image credits: Hero image is by Jeremy Bishop | Body image 1 is by Ludvig Hedenborg