Turtles and tortoises are also popular reptiles kept as pets. They belong to the reptilian order Chelonia, with hundreds of different species existing. The most common chelonians kept as pets include box turtles, snapping turtles, and various aquatic turtles. If well cared for, some turtles can live over 20 years in captivity.
Restraint
Most turtles can be easily and safely handled by grasping the edges of the shell with one hand and supporting the underside of the turtle, or plastron, with the other. Note, however, that snapping turtles and certain other species of turtles do require special precautions when lifting or handling to avoid being bitten and/or scratched. For instance, a snapping turtle should be picked up only by the base of its tail. Since turtles are unable to reach around and bite effectively because of their shell, this approach is the safest. Less aggressive turtles can be handled safely by grasping the sides of the shell near the hind end, as far away from the head as possible.
Restraint
Most turtles can be easily and safely handled by grasping the edges of the shell with one hand and supporting the underside of the turtle, or plastron, with the other. Note, however, that snapping turtles and certain other species of turtles do require special precautions when lifting or handling to avoid being bitten and/or scratched. For instance, a snapping turtle should be picked up only by the base of its tail. Since turtles are unable to reach around and bite effectively because of their shell, this approach is the safest. Less aggressive turtles can be handled safely by grasping the sides of the shell near the hind end, as far away from the head as possible.
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