Turtle Thursday: Turtle Dreams

Dante giving the camera the eye

Do animals dream? What would they dream about? Can turtles dream? For years that was always a favorite discussion. Many people feel that any animal cannot dream because they don't have the brain capacity. However many others have seen what appears to be their pets dreaming. So who is right? Is there actual documented proof siding with one argument or the other?

If there is, I can't be bothered trying to find it. I know what I have personally seen. The dogs in our household have had what appeared to be dreams during which they move around and make noises in their sleep. I remember seeing our old dog, Perdido, made all manner of sounds and moved about in his sleep then awoke with a start.

But a dog is a higher life form than a turtle. Can a turtle dream? It would seem like a difficult undertaking to find out. Turtles usually won't sleep in the presence of humans, unless the room is in pitch darkness, in which case, how would you know? Well, if you have pets that are very comfortable around you, they might just let down their defenses to sleep in front of you long enough so you can catch a remarkable glimpse, as I did!

I was working in the basement last weekend when I noticed Dante in the corner of the turtle tank. He was alone and at the bottom and making a series of minor movements. I wanted to check to be sure all was well, and walked around to see his face. That was when i noticed his eyes were tightly closed! He was making very tiny motions with his arms and legs as if he were swimming, while barely moving his mouth but making similar motions as if he were trying to bite down on something. That was when i realized that after a good minute of watching, he was acting out a dream! It was SO cute!

So now, go and watch your turtle, and wish it sweet dreams!