# @nationalparkservice on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/Da37YtJFk3B
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/67900153-nationalparkservice-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/c9eebb0cb6.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-07-17T00:28:06.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** National Park Service (@nationalparkservice) — https://gondola.cc/nationalparkservice

## Caption

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 important processes like shell and bone health.

It’s a pretty clever strategy… unless you’re the turtle on top with a fear of heights and questionable balance. Then it’s less “King of the World” and more, well, “falling dramatically into the water.”

NPS Images

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 19,418
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 95

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| National Park Service | @nationalparkservice | https://gondola.cc/nationalparkservice | Government Organization |

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