Turtles, tortoises and terrapins
In this group the body is shielded by a special bony or cartilaginous shell developed from their ribs. Turtles form one of the oldest reptile groups, and a much more ancient group than lizards and snakes.
They occur all over the world and occupy many different habitats. Most species don't get very large, about 20 to 30 centimetres, but some reach a shell length of almost 300 centimetres. There are approximately 300 species; tens are highly endangered.
Terrapins are turtles that live in fresh or brackish water. In the British Isles no terrapins occur naturally. The European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis) extended naturally into Britain, but became extinct in these areas later as a result of climatic cooling. The terrapins occurring nowadays are released or escaped individuals kept as pets. Mainly Red-eared Terrapins are found.
Sea turtles are turtles found in all the world's oceans except the Arctic Ocean. Five species of sea turtles can be seen around the British Isles. These only come to forage, they don't breed here. They lay their eggs in beaches in sunnier climates.
Species occurring in the British Isles:
Terrapins:
- Red-eared Terrapin, Trachemys scripta subsp. elegans
Turtles:
- Leatherback Sea Turtle, Dermochelys coriacea
- Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Caretta caretta
- Green Sea Turtle, Chelonia mydas
- Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata
- Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle, Lepidochelys kempi