This article is about the species of special characters. For the fish introduced in New Horizons, see Snapping turtle. For the fish introduced in New Leaf, see Soft-shelled turtle.
Turtles or kappa are a species in the Animal Crossing series. The first turtle to appear in Animal Crossing is Kapp'n in Doubutsu no Mori+. Animal Crossing: New Leaf introduces Kapp'n's extended family, including his mother, Grams; his wife, Leilani; and his daughter, Leila. In the Japanese versions of the games, the turtles are referred to as kappa. The change in localization is most likely to avoid confusion, as kappa are largely unknown outside of Japan. However, Kapp'n's English name alludes to his Japanese species.
Kappa are not a real creature, but rather, a yokai; a creature found in Japanese folklore. They are known for their turtle-like appearances and their bowl-shaped heads filled with water. They are said to live in rivers and act hostile toward humans, but they can be subdued by causing them to bow, which drains the water from their head. They become friendly if fed cucumbers.
