Determining The age of a turtle: infographic

This infographic is a “Must-Read Guide” on how to determine the age of a turtle, presenting various methods and tips.

Method 1: Counting Rings

• This involves counting the growth rings on the turtle’s shell and dividing that number by two. An example given is if there are 14 rings, the turtle’s age is estimated to be 7 years.

Method 2: Checking The Size

• A chart compares the plastron length (the bottom part of the shell) of males and females to the turtle’s age. It notes this method is mostly applicable for matured turtles and requires measuring the turtle from the tip of the nose to the tail.

Visual Signs Of Age

• Describes how the carapace (the upper shell) shows signs of aging, such as being worn and torn, and may have dents and chips, which are considered signs of maturity.

Examining The Bones

• Discusses that for some sea turtles that produce annual rings in their bones, counting these rings can determine the age of the turtle.

How To Tell The Age Of A Red-Eared Slider Turtle

• Provides specific signs of aging for Red-Eared Sliders, including changes in shell color after 1 year, expected carapace length at various ages, and changes in claws and tail after 2 years.

How To Tell How Old A Painted Turtle Is?

• Suggests that the age of a Painted Turtle can be guessed by the number of rings in the abdominal area, with 5 rings indicating the turtle is likely 4 years old.

How To Tell How Old A Snapping Turtle Is?

• Provides guidance on the age of a Snapping Turtle based on the length of the carapace, with specific lengths corresponding to estimated ages, ranging from 10 years for a 7-inch carapace to 70-100 years for an 18-inch carapace.