It’s been 84 years…can we switch?
Ever see turtles just sitting on a log, soaking up the sun? Turtles aren’t just lounging around, they’re basking, well, it’s kind of lounging, but for a good reason. Basking is a scientific way of saying they’re using the sun’s warmth to help regulate their internal body temperature.
Unlike mammals, reptiles are ectothermic (often called “cold-blooded”), meaning their body temperature is influenced by the temperature of their surroundings. To warm up, turtles climb out of the water and bask. When they get too warm, they take a dip to cool off.
Basically, turtles have their own little fun in the sun routine: a little time in the heat, a little time in the water. (So, Rose… maybe Jack could’ve taken a turn on the door? We’re just saying.)
Most turtles bask anywhere from 2 to 8 hours a day. And yes, sometimes turtles stack on top of each other. Sounds sturdy. The higher a turtle sits, the better access it has to sunlight and UV rays, which help with...