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How Far Can Turtles See? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Ed Malaker

By Ed Malaker

close up painted turtle's eye

Vet approved

Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca Photo

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca

BVSc GPCert (Ophthal) MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more »

Turtles are fascinating creatures that have been around for millions of years, and there are many species native to the United States that can be fun to keep as pets or observe in the wild. While there are many interesting things to learn about turtles, one of the most common questions is how far they can see. While it can be difficult to give precise numbers, turtles can likely see quite well, at least a few meters. Keep reading as we dig into the science to see how well turtles can see in and out of the water and discuss a few factors that can affect their vision.

 

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Visual Acuity

Most experts believe that turtles have good visual acuity, meaning they can clearly see and distinguish an object’s finer details.

veterinarian holding a turtle
Image Credit: Goldfish Studio, Shutterstock

Vision Range

A turtle possesses a relatively wide field of vision. Their eyes being on the sides of their head allows for a panoramic view, enabling them to detect movement and potential threats from various angles. However, their binocular vision, which is the ability to perceive depth and distance accurately, is more limited than it is in humans.

Underwater Vision

Turtles spend a great deal of time in the water, and their vision differs depending on whether they’re submerged or on land. Underwater, turtles have a better visual range compared to their abilities on land. They are farsighted underwater and have a protective layer that shields their eyes from water pressure and potential damage. Additionally, they have developed a higher sensitivity to perceive movement underwater, aiding in locating prey or avoiding predators. These traits work together to help the turtle identify and capture prey.

red-eared turtle swimming
Image Credit: Anton Vakhrushev, Shutterstock

Air Vision

Due to their eye structure, a turtle becomes nearsighted once out of the water and can’t see that well. Fortunately, they usually only stay out of the water to bask in the sunlight, lay eggs, and explore, so they don’t rely on their eyesight that much and shouldn’t have a problem getting around or finding their way back to the water.

Color Vision

For many years, experts believed that turtles could only see in black and white. However, modern research shows that they can see in color and seem to distinguish blue, green, and yellow. However, there is still debate over how many colors and shades they are able to see.

Other Specialties

Some turtles, like the pond turtle, have gained the ability to change their vision when moving their head in and out of their shell. When inside, the eyes are forward facing like humans, but outside, the eyes move for wider peripheral vision. Other species may also have the ability to see into the infrared spectrum, which would help them see better at night.

Environmental Factors

Various environmental factors can affect a turtle’s visual capabilities. Lighting conditions, for instance, greatly impact their ability to see. Turtles are more active during the day, and their eyes have adapted to detect movement and prey during daylight hours when the light is bright. In low-light conditions or during nighttime, their vision is not usually as good. Water clarity also plays a role in their underwater vision. If the water is cloudy or murky, it will be more challenging for them to spot food or potential threats.

Baby Painted turtle in swamp
Image Credit: IHX, Shutterstock

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FAQ

How Far Can Turtles See Underwater?

Unfortunately, it’s hard to determine the exact distance at which turtles can see underwater. However, their underwater vision seems to be quite good. Their eyes are well-suited for the aquatic environment, as they can perceive movement, locate prey within a certain range underwater, and track it effectively as they hunt.

Can Turtles See Underwater as Well as in the Air?

Turtles have better visual capabilities underwater compared to their abilities in the air. Their eyes are specially adapted for the underwater environment, providing enhanced water vision. They are usually nearsighted on land and rely on their sense of smell and other sensory cues to navigate and find food.

Do Turtles Have Good Depth Perception?

Turtles have limited binocular vision, which is the ability to perceive depth and distance accurately. Due to the positioning of their eyes on the sides of their heads, they have a narrower field of binocular vision than humans. However, their other senses, such as their sense of touch, sensitivity to vibration, and movement detection, aid them in navigating their surroundings and determining distance to predators and prey.

turtle divider AHConclusion

While it can be difficult to determine exactly how far turtles can see, they seem to see quite well underwater and can find and track prey when hunting. They have specially designed eyes that are able to distinguish color, making it easier for them to navigate the environment. They may also have other special abilities, like changing the position of their eyes by pulling their head into their shell or being sensitive to UV light. Most turtles tend to be nearsighted out of the water and rely more on their sense of smell and sensitivity to vibration to move through the world.


Featured Image Credit: 631372, Pixabay

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