Many novices think turtles are “unfeeling,” but they actually have their own ways of expression. It’s just that compared to “cats”and “dogs,” they are more quiet and restrained.
If you notice them making these “subtle gestures,” then congratulations, it has started to like you and “has chosen you”!
Actively “Rushing” Towards You
When it hears footsteps or sees you approaching, it will paddle desperately and press against the tank wall, trying to get closer to you.
For a slow-moving turtle, this is the enthusiasm of a “100-meter dash.”
Willing to Be Touched
When you reach out your hand, it doesn’t immediately retract into its shell. Instead, it stretches out its neck and nuzzles your hand. This is a way turtles “show affection,”and it means it trusts you very much. During this process, approach it slowly and don’t grab it suddenly, and it will grow closer to you.
Chasing You for Food
When you are holding food, it will swim over immediately, take it obediently, and not bite randomly. This is a kind of “well-behaved” manner it only shows to you; with anyone else, it would be “aloof.”
Basking Peacefully by Your Side
When it’s basking, it will intentionally crawl to a spot near you and relax with its limbs spread out. For a highly vigilant turtle, being able to “lie flat” next to you is a sign of its trust in you.
Staring at You, Like a “Little Tag-along”
It follows you wherever you go, even resting against the glass to make eye contact with you. Don’t think it’s just curious; it is genuinely “watching you.” Turtles have good eyesight and can recognize familiar human figures.
More Active in Front of You
Usually sluggish, it starts swimming, splashing water, and spinning in circles the moment it sees you. This isn’t the turtle moving randomly; it’s a sign that it is very happy to see you.
Resting Quietly Near You
Some turtles will quietly approach you and stay still, just wanting to “share the same frame” with you. This is the turtle’s gentle affection for you, seeing you as its source of security. It feels very safe resting by your side.
Summary
Turtles don’t “show affection”by making sounds like cats and dogs, but they have their own quiet ways of expressing emotions. When they approach you, stare at you, and bask beside you, that’s them saying, “I trust you.” Don’t be “clueless” and not realize it.
Original article by 搬运工, if reproduced, please cite the source: https://www.kaipet.com/en/7-signs-turtle-trusts-sees-family
Comments(2)
I really enjoyed this post on turtle trust! I’m curious, what’s the most heartwarming sign your turtle shows you?
@CriticX：We’re so glad you enjoyed the post! That’s a wonderful question. Many find the ‘willing to be touched’ or ‘resting quietly near you’ signs particularly heartwarming. We’d love to hear what unique gestures your turtle has shown you!