Turtles are an often forgotten animal with a reptile classification. They are amazing animals that have been part of many myths and are associated with several legends, resulting in popular symbolisms. Here’s a breakdown of turtle facts, myths, legends and symbolisms.

Facts

They have an amazing history and can be dated back to 200 million years ago. They inhabit many environments depending on the type of turtle, the one area that turtles can’t live in is the Antarctica, but then neither can I. They have an extremely long lifespan, in fact the Box has been known to live over 100 years.

Myths

Turtles often end up being inadvertently harmed due to false myths, especially those relating to care. People believe that turtles require minimal care, that they don’t get sick and that they thrive under artificial light. In actuality, turtles require a great deal of care, they have special diet requirements and their homes need to be kept clean to avoid possible contamination. This can lead to many of their sicknesses that are often unnoticed until it becomes too late. Sunlight is vital to a turtle to maintain health, they should be taken outside to bath in natural sunlight.

Legends

There are many turtle legends that emerged from various cultures. Most of these legends have in one degree or another survived into our modern times. Of all of the turtle legends, I would have to say that my favorite is the Hawaiian legend. Kauila was able to change herself into a girl to watch over the many children that played on Punalu'u Beach. She is considered the mythical mother and some even believe that she guided the very first Hawaiian voyagers.

Symbolism

Just like the turtle legends there are also many turtle symbolism, often appearing to be a result of the legends. The most common known symbolism is the symbol of fertility. In fact even today many items are sold to promote fertility, ranging from jewelry pieces to sculptures.