The turtle is of great symbolic importance among many tribes. In many Eastern tribes the turtle is directly involved in the creation of mother earth. It is said he essentially carries the world upon his back. He his a symbol of good health and longevity. As well the turtle has much wisdom, patience, perseverance and determination to do what is right and is self- reliant.
Also the turtle has thirteen moons on its back. The thirteen segments represent the thirteen lunar moons. The 28 smaller segments around the ring of the shell number in twenty eight, which represents the time between new moons.
All in all, I like turtles. My daughter wants one as a pet which I won't do. She's learning (slowly) like I did that each animal has a purpose and meaning, and some just don't make good pets. However I am learning three year olds just don't care, they want a turtle!