Turtles are one of the most magnificent creatures on earth. They are found on most continents, some islands and much of the ocean. These fascinating creatures are an order of reptiles known as Testudines which also includes tortoises and terrapins.

Turtles have been very successful, and have almost world-wide distribution. But, of the many species alive today, some are highly endangered. Their natural habitats around the world is being destroyed mercilessly. They have been hunted for their meat, for use in traditional medicine and for their shells. As a result of these pressures, they are threatened with extinction.

Despite that, turtles have been widely known because of their quiet and exquisite nature. Legally, people are widely keeping some terrestrial and freshwater species as pets. Something which is amazing!

Below is a compilation of top ten terrific and mind blowing facts them.

Turtles are one of the oldest surviving reptile groups and a more ancient group than lizards, snakes and crocodiles.

These creatures date back to the time of dinosaurs, over 200 million years ago. The earliest Fossil turtle comes from the early Upper Triassic of China, about 220 million years ago.

Turtles shell are made mostly of bone; the upper part is the domed Carapace, while the underside is the flatter belly-plate. It’s outer surface is covered in scales made of keratin, the material of hair, horns and claws. The Carapace bones develop from ribs that grow sideways and develop into broad flat plates that join up to cover the body. The main function of their shells is to act as a shield protecting them from predators or any other type of danger.

They are ectotherms or “cold-blooded”. This draws a meaning that their internal temperature varies with their direct environment.

What a turtle eats depends on the environment it lives in. Those dwelling on land will munch on bettles, fruit and grass, whereas sea dwellers will gobble everything from algae to squid and Jellyfish.

Like other reptiles, birds, and mammals, they breathe air and lay their eggs on land, although many species live in or around water.

Turtles are generally opportunistic omnivores and mainly feed on plants and mammals with limited movements. Many baby turtles start life as carnivores (meat eaters) but grow to eat more plants as they mature.

These ectotherms have an incredibly long life span. The oldest ever recorded, named Tu”i Malila, of Tongo Island, passed away at the grand old age of 188.

According to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), many species of turtle are endangered. 129 of approximately 300 species of turtle and tortoise on earth today are often vulnerable or critically endangered. Threats include loss of habitat, poaching and illegal pet trade.

Turtles have appeared in myths and folktales around the world. Also, some people haven’t cut off the belief that a turtle can come out its shell, which is hell wrong. The turtle’s shell grow with them so it’s impossible for them to grow too big for it.

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National Geographic kids.

BY MAXWELL KAMAU