This Turtle Getting Butt Scratches Is Too Dang Cute
It's been a long week. You deserve a cuteness break, and for that, we present to you this adorable video of a turtle getting butt scratches.
Alveus Sanctuary is a nonprofit in Austin, Texas, that takes in all manner of wildlife, from snakes and birds to cows, foxes, frogs and more.
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"Her Little Butt Wiggles!"
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/P4p_BFPy53s
This happy tortoise looks like she's living the good life, hanging out in her enclosure, munching on freshly grown greens, and getting really great scratches from her caregiver's extra-large nails.
"She loves her butt scritches," the video caption says as we watch the big girl shake her booty.
"She's got the itches," the caretaker says as she scratches away, laughing at the cute scene. "She likes the nails."
"She's eating and getting butt scritches," the cameraman says.
"Best day ever," the caregiver replies, and we agree.
"Her little butt wiggles!" one commenter says.
"That's what nails are for! Scratching turtle butts!" another replies.
"That's a funny lookin dog ya got there," another jokes.
Related: Rating This Turtle's Enrichment Activities Is Cuter Than You'd Think
Why Do Turtles Like to Scratch Their Shells?
Turtles and tortoises alike love a good shell scratch, and yes, they really do feel it!
These shells are made out of living bone, and they're full of active nerve endings. Not only can these shells get a little itchy from time to time, but they also need to be scratched for the turtle's health.
Just as a snake must shed its skin as it grows, turtles and tortoises must shed old plates from their shells. These plates are made of keratin, the same as human hair and nails, and these must be scratched away to make room for fresh growth.
It's also important to scratch a turtle's shell to help remove algae and parasites that grow in places they can't reach. This is particularly important for sea turtles who can become home to barnacles and other growths. If these become too thick, they weigh the turtle down and make it harder for it to swim.
Many turtle and tortoise parents buy brushes to attach to the sides of their tanks or enclosures, ensuring their pets can scratch themselves whenever they want or need to. Of course, it's always nice to give your turtle or tortoise some butt scratches-especially if you've got really long nails like these!
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This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 4:05 PM.