Geoemyda japonica (Ryukyu Black-breasted Leaf Turtle)

Geoemyda japonica (Ryukyu Black-breasted Leaf Turtle)

Geoemyda japonica, commonly known as the Ryukyu Black-breasted Leaf Turtle, is a distinctive species of turtle native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. Renowned for its unique coloration and habitat preferences, this turtle plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Geoemyda japonica is a small to medium-sized turtle, typically…

Heosemys spinosa (Spiny Turtle)

Heosemys spinosa (Spiny Turtle)

Heosemys spinosa, commonly known as the spiny turtle, is a distinctive species native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Named for the spiky projections along the edges of its shell, this turtle’s unique appearance provides camouflage among the forest floor’s leaf litter. Its secretive nature and declining population have made it a subject of…

blanding's turtle winking

Emydoidea blandingii (Blanding’s Turtle)

Emydoidea blandingii is a semi-aquatic freshwater turtle species known for its distinctive yellow chin and throat and its domed carapace. This species is primarily found in the Great Lakes region of North America and is notable for its long lifespan and preference for shallow water habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Blanding’s Turtle has…

Elusor macrurus (Mary River Turtle)

Elusor macrurus (Mary River Turtle)

The Elusor macrurus, commonly known as the Mary River Turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to Australia. This unique turtle is known for its algae-covered head and distinctive long tail, setting it apart from other turtle species. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Elusor macrurus prefers fast-flowing, clear rivers…

Elseya albagula (White-throated Snapping Turtle)

Elseya albagula (White-throated Snapping Turtle)

Elseya albagula is a freshwater turtle species primarily found in rivers of eastern Australia. Known for its distinctive pale throat, this species plays an essential role in maintaining river ecosystems. Its conservation is critical due to various threats from human activities. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Elseya albagula thrives…

Cyclemys pulchristriata (Eastern black-bridged leaf turtle)

Cyclemys pulchristriata (Eastern black-bridged leaf turtle)

Cyclemys pulchristriata, commonly known as the Eastern black-bridged leaf turtle, is a semi-aquatic species of turtle primarily found in Southeast Asia. With a distinctive brown and yellow pattern on its shell, this species thrives in freshwater environments such as rivers and streams, showing adaptability to a variety of habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description…

Cyclemys oldhamii (Oldham’s Leaf Turtle)

Cyclemys oldhamii (Oldham’s Leaf Turtle)

Cyclemys oldhamii is a medium-sized freshwater turtle known for its unique carapace, which features a striking serrated edge. Native to Southeast Asia, this species is often found in forested areas with access to slow-moving water bodies like streams and ponds. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cyclemys oldhamii has a dark brown to reddish-brown carapace…

Chelonoidis vicina (Isabela Island Giant Tortoise)

Chelonoidis vicina (Isabela Island Giant Tortoise)

Chelonoidis vicina is a species of giant tortoise native to the Galápagos Islands. These tortoises are notable for their large size and unique adaptations to different island environments. Chelonoidis vicina populations have been impacted by human activities but conservation efforts are underway to preserve them. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelonoidis vicina can weigh…

Chelonoidis vandenburghi (Volcán Alcedo giant tortoise)

Chelonoidis vandenburghi (Volcán Alcedo giant tortoise)

Chelonoidis vandenburghi, also known as the Volcán Alcedo giant tortoise, is a species of giant tortoise endemic to Española Island in the Galápagos archipelago. With a distinctive saddle-backed shell, it plays a critical role in the island’s ecosystem and is famous for its conservation story. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred…

Chelonoidis microphyes (Volcán Darwin giant tortoise)

Chelonoidis microphyes (Volcán Darwin giant tortoise)

Chelonoidis microphyes is a subspecies of the Galápagos giant tortoise, specifically found on the island of Isabela. These massive tortoises are renowned for their impressive size and the crucial role they play in their ecosystem, contributing to the dispersal of seeds and maintenance of vegetation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Chelonoidis microphyes is characterized…

Chelonoidis chathamensis (San Cristobal Giant Tortoise)

Chelonoidis chathamensis (San Cristobal Giant Tortoise)

Chelonoidis chathamensis is a subspecies of the Galápagos tortoise, known for its significant role in the ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands. This species is specifically found on San Cristóbal Island and is distinguished by its unique shell shape and large size. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: ChelonoidisSpecies: Chelonoidis chathamensis Common Names Identification…

Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtle)

Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtle)

Chelonia mydas, commonly known as the Green Sea Turtle, is a large marine reptile recognized for its unique greenish-colored fat. This species is known for its long migrations and vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Green Sea Turtles are large, with a carapace length that can reach…

Cuora mouhotii (Keeled Box Turtle)

Cuora mouhotii (Keeled Box Turtle)

Cuora mouhotii is a species of turtle known for its distinctive keeled shell and secretive nature. This medium-sized turtle is primarily found in forested areas and has unique behaviors that make it fascinating to herpetologists. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Cuora mouhotii has a high-domed, keeled shell that is brown to black in color….

Cuora lineata (Burmese box turtle)

Cuora lineata (Burmese box turtle)

Cuora lineata, commonly known as the Burmese box turtle, is a unique species of turtle characterized by its striking coloration and distinctive shell markings. This semi-aquatic turtle is admired for its vibrant stripes and is a subject of interest among turtle enthusiasts and conservationists. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: GeoemydidaeGenus: CuoraSpecies: Cuora lineata…

Cuora flavomarginata (Chinese box turtle)

Cuora flavomarginata (Chinese box turtle)

Cuora Flavomarginata, commonly known as the Yellow-margined Box Turtle, is a medium-sized terrestrial turtle species known for its distinctive yellow stripes along the margins of its shell. This species is primarily found in East Asia and is appreciated for its unique appearance and behavior. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Yellow-margined Box Turtle has a…

Cuora couro (Sunda Box Turtle)

Cuora couro (Sunda Box Turtle)

Cuora couro is a fascinating species of turtle known for its unique shell pattern and adaptability to various environments. This species is notable for its striking appearance and intriguing behavior, making it a subject of interest for herpetologists and turtle enthusiasts alike. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Cuora couro typically has a dark brown…

Clemmys guttata (Spotted Turtle)

Clemmys guttata (Spotted Turtle)

Clemmys guttata, commonly known as the spotted turtle, is a small, semi-aquatic turtle that is easily recognizable by its distinctive yellow spots against a dark carapace. This species is known for its gentle disposition and striking appearance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Spotted turtles prefer shallow, muddy-bottomed water bodies…