Be Careful Wearing Nail Polish Around Tortoises

Tortoises have excellent color vision.  In addition to the colors that humans observe, they also see into the ultraviolet spectrum according to Ronald Orenstein, author of Turtles, Tortoises and Terrapins: Survivors in Armour.  Because of this wonderful gift, people need to be careful when interacting with tortoises.  I have heard of tortoises mistaking painted toenails for a piece of fruit.  My friend told me how the tortoise she grew up with, Tommy, used to chase her when she wore flip flops.  As a veterinarian, I always wear clear nail polish for this very reason.  I don't want a reptile to confuse my finger with a berry. 

Posted by Dr Kris Nelson at 8/22/2011 5:02 PM
Categories: Ask The Vet
Tags: Careful with nail polish around tortoises
 

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