5 of the Funnest Turtle Facts

Turtles are some of the cutest reptiles on the planet, and they can be found almost anywhere in the world including most continents, islands, and even the sea! 

Here’s our five favourite fun facts about turtles to celebrate World Turtle Day:

1. Wormy Tongues
   The alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) has a worm-like tongue which it sticks out and wiggles around to attract hungry fish before snapping its jaw and gobbling it up!
2. Butt Breathers
   A turtle’s butt is called a cloaca, and during brumation (a reptile version of hibernation) they move their cloaca through the water to absorb oxygen – this is known as cloacal respiration. 
3.  Hermits
   Turtles aren’t social creatures and choose to spend their days alone, and if they do come across another turtle, they won’t interact. Awkward!
4. Home Bodies
   Unlike crabs that may outgrow their shells and move into bigger ones, a turtle’s shell is part of their skeleton – meaning it grows with them – which is why a turtle can’t leave its shell. 
5. Old Folks
   Turtles belong to one of the oldest reptile groups in the world, dating back to over 200 million years ago!

Do you have any turtle fun facts we haven’t included? Let us know! Be sure the next time you visit Amazement Farm & Fun Park to keep your eyes out, and you may be lucky enough to spot a turtle or two!