Big-headed mud turtle

Description

The big-headed silt turtle belongs to the family of crypto-necked turtles. In appearance, it resembles, but in miniature. It is a freshwater reptile that prefers stagnant or slow moving waters.

The turtle is relatively small. The total length of the body and shell is no more than 13 cm. Distinctive features of the species: a large head (which is reflected in the name of the turtle) and paws, a short tail and rib-like outgrowths on the upper part of the shell (carapace).

Lifespan

The average lifespan of loggerhead mud turtles is 20 years.

Features care and maintenance

Big-headed turtles are compact and unpretentious, which makes them excellent pets. In addition, they have a very unusual appearance. However, when starting this reptile, one should take into account its unpredictable disposition. Remember we mentioned the similarities with ? So, the silt turtle, despite its miniature size, can bite very painfully. These exotic pets are best admired from the outside.

Mud turtles are less demanding on water parameters and even the volume of an aquaterrarium than their relatives. An aquaterrarium with a volume of 60-100 liters is quite suitable for them.

Mud turtles prefer animal food. It is best to feed them with specialized balanced turtle food.

Distribution

In nature, the big-headed turtle is found in Guatemala, southern Mexico and Belize. They inhabit swamps, lakes and rivers with a weak current.