Background

What they are

• Tortoises are amazing creatures that look very similar to turtles but are not quite the same. They are actually reptiles that have scaly skin and lay eggs. But there are some differences between tortoises and turtles. 

• Tortoises live on land whereas turtles live in water. Tortoises have strong legs with very tough and round feet so they can walk on land. Tortoise shells are rough and rigid but act as their armor and also their home.

• Tortoises can live for a very long time! Some are able to live up to over a hundred years old. These creatures are very cool and are built for life on land.