Native Turtles In Australia

Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region

Native turtles in New South Wales

New South Wales (NSW), Australia, enjoys a variety of climates and habitats, including coastal areas, forests, rivers, and wetlands, which support a diverse array of native turtle species.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in New South Wales:

Trachemys scripta (Pond Slider)

The Pond Slider is one of the most recognizable turtles in the world, known for the red streaks on both sides of its head. It’s often seen basking in the sun on logs or rocks near freshwater areas and is a common pet turtle in many countries. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus:…
Myuchelys purvisi (Manning River snapping turtle)

Myuchelys purvisi, commonly known as the Manning River snapping turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to Australia. This species is known for its unique head shape, strong jaws, and preference for the fast-flowing waters of the Manning River system. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: MyuchelysSpecies: Myuchelys purvisi Common Names Manning River snapping…
Myuchelys latisternum (Saw-shelled Turtle)

Myuchelys latisternum, commonly known as the Saw-shelled Turtle, is a freshwater species native to Australia. It is known for its serrated carapace, which gives it a saw-like appearance, and its ability to tolerate diverse aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: MyuchelysSpecies: M. latisternum Common Names Saw-shelled TurtleBroad-shelled Turtle Identification Description This…
Myuchelys georgesi (Bellinger River Snapping Turtle)

Myuchelys georgesi, commonly known as the Bellinger River Snapping Turtle, is a rare freshwater species found only in a small stretch of the Bellinger River in New South Wales, Australia. This species is known for its unique head shape and was driven to the brink of extinction due to a deadly virus outbreak. Scientific Classification…
Myuchelys bellii (Namoi River snapping turtle)

Myuchelys bellii, commonly known as the Namoi River snapping turtle, is a freshwater species found in Australia. This turtle is known for its strong jaw and unique shell shape, making it a fascinating species in the Chelidae family. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: MyuchelysSpecies: Myuchelys bellii Common Names Namoi River snapping turtleBell’s…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Hawksbill turtles are medium-sized, growing…
Emydura macquarii (Murray River Turtle)

Emydura macquarii, commonly known as the Macquarie River Turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to Australia. This species is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it one of the most widespread turtles in southeastern Australia. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Emydura macquarii is easily recognized by its short neck and smooth, streamlined shell,…
Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Sea Turtle)

Dermochelys coriacea, commonly known as the leatherback sea turtle, is the largest and most unique of all sea turtles. Unlike other species, it has a soft, leathery shell rather than a hard one and can travel incredible distances across the oceans. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Leatherbacks are pelagic,…
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…
Chelodina longicollis (Eastern Long-necked Turtle)

Chelodina longicollis, also known as the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, is a unique species native to Australia. This turtle is easily recognized by its exceptionally long neck and distinctive shell shape. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Eastern Long-necked Turtle has an elongated neck that can extend as long as its carapace. Its shell is typically…
Chelodina expansa (Broad-shelled river turtle)

Chelodina expansa, commonly known as the Broad-Shelled Turtle, is a fascinating aquatic species. It is known for its unusually broad and flattened shell, which distinguishes it from other turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Chelodina expansa is predominantly aquatic, favoring slow-moving waters such as swamps, rivers, and lakes with…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in Victoria

Victoria, Australia, features a variety of climates and habitats, including significant river systems, wetlands, and coastal regions, which support a diverse array of native turtle species.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in Victoria:

Emydura macquarii (Murray River Turtle)

Emydura macquarii, commonly known as the Macquarie River Turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to Australia. This species is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it one of the most widespread turtles in southeastern Australia. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Emydura macquarii is easily recognized by its short neck and smooth, streamlined shell,…
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…
Chelodina longicollis (Eastern Long-necked Turtle)

Chelodina longicollis, also known as the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, is a unique species native to Australia. This turtle is easily recognized by its exceptionally long neck and distinctive shell shape. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Eastern Long-necked Turtle has an elongated neck that can extend as long as its carapace. Its shell is typically…
Chelodina expansa (Broad-shelled river turtle)

Chelodina expansa, commonly known as the Broad-Shelled Turtle, is a fascinating aquatic species. It is known for its unusually broad and flattened shell, which distinguishes it from other turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Chelodina expansa is predominantly aquatic, favoring slow-moving waters such as swamps, rivers, and lakes with…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in Queensland

Queensland, Australia, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests to riverine and coastal areas, hosts a wide variety of native turtle species. This region’s warm climate and abundant water bodies provide ideal conditions for a large and varied turtle population.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in Queensland:

Pelochelys bibroni (Bibron’s Giant soft-shelled Turtle)

Pelochelys bibroni, known as Bibron’s Giant Softshell Turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles on Earth. It’s elusive and rarely seen, making it one of the most mysterious turtle species in the wild. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TrionychidaeGenus: PelochelysSpecies: Pelochelys bibroni Common Names Bibron’s Giant Soft-shelled TurtleSouthern New Guinea giant softshell…
Natator depressus (Flatback Sea Turtle)

Natator depressus, commonly known as the Flatback Sea Turtle, is a unique species found primarily in Australian waters. It is distinguished by its relatively flat shell and is one of the least migratory sea turtles, staying close to its coastal habitats. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: CheloniidaeGenus: NatatorSpecies: Natator depressus Common Names Flatback…
Rheodytes leukops (Fitzroy River Turtle)

Rheodytes leukops, commonly known as the Fitzroy River Turtle, is a unique freshwater species found only in Australia. It is best known for its ability to extract oxygen from water through cloacal respiration, allowing it to stay submerged for extended periods. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: RheodytesSpecies: Rheodytes leukops Common Names Fitzroy…
Myuchelys latisternum (Saw-shelled Turtle)

Myuchelys latisternum, commonly known as the Saw-shelled Turtle, is a freshwater species native to Australia. It is known for its serrated carapace, which gives it a saw-like appearance, and its ability to tolerate diverse aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: MyuchelysSpecies: M. latisternum Common Names Saw-shelled TurtleBroad-shelled Turtle Identification Description This…
Lepidochelys olivacea (Olive Ridley Sea Turtle)

Lepidochelys olivacea is a small sea turtle that is known for its olive-colored shell. It is often seen nesting on tropical beaches, with groups sometimes gathering in large numbers. Scientific Classification Common Names Olive Ridley Sea Turtle and Pacific Ridley. Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat They prefer warm, tropical waters and shallow coastal…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Hawksbill turtles are medium-sized, growing…
Emydura subglobosa (red-bellied short-necked turtle)

Emydura subglobosa, commonly known as the red-bellied short-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle species found in parts of Australia and New Guinea. Its striking red or orange underbelly makes it easily recognizable among other turtles in its range. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat This species thrives in slow-moving freshwater…
Emydura macquarii (Murray River Turtle)

Emydura macquarii, commonly known as the Macquarie River Turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to Australia. This species is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it one of the most widespread turtles in southeastern Australia. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Emydura macquarii is easily recognized by its short neck and smooth, streamlined shell,…
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 lavarackorum (Gulf Snapping Turtle)

Elseya lavarackorum is a large freshwater turtle native to Australia, known for its striking dome-shaped carapace and distinct preference for tropical river systems. First identified in 1997, it is one of the species belonging to the Elseya genus and has been the subject of conservation efforts due to its vulnerability. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification…
Elseya irwini (Irwin’s Snapping Turtle)

Elseya irwini is a unique species of freshwater turtle found primarily in Australia. Known for its striking appearance, this species is notable for its relatively large size and distinctive shell markings. Despite its local abundance, it faces threats due to habitat alteration and water pollution. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Elseya irwini has…
Elseya dentata (Northern Snapping Turtle)

Elseya dentata, commonly known as the Northern Snapping Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle species native to Australia. It is recognized for its unique physical characteristics and adaptability to different freshwater environments. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Elseya dentata prefers slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as rivers, creeks,…
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…
Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Sea Turtle)

Dermochelys coriacea, commonly known as the leatherback sea turtle, is the largest and most unique of all sea turtles. Unlike other species, it has a soft, leathery shell rather than a hard one and can travel incredible distances across the oceans. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Leatherbacks are pelagic,…
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…
Chelodina longicollis (Eastern Long-necked Turtle)

Chelodina longicollis, also known as the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, is a unique species native to Australia. This turtle is easily recognized by its exceptionally long neck and distinctive shell shape. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Eastern Long-necked Turtle has an elongated neck that can extend as long as its carapace. Its shell is typically…
Chelodina expansa (Broad-shelled river turtle)

Chelodina expansa, commonly known as the Broad-Shelled Turtle, is a fascinating aquatic species. It is known for its unusually broad and flattened shell, which distinguishes it from other turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Chelodina expansa is predominantly aquatic, favoring slow-moving waters such as swamps, rivers, and lakes with…
Carettochelys insculpta (Pig-nosed Turtle)

The Carettochelys insculpta, commonly known as the pig-nosed turtle, is a distinctive species of turtle known for its pig-like snout and flippers similar to those of marine turtles. This freshwater species is the sole living member of the family Carettochelyidae. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Carettochelys insculpta has a soft, leathery shell that is…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in Western Australia

Western Australia, with its extensive and varied landscapes that include vast deserts, lush forests, and long stretches of coastline, hosts a distinctive array of turtle species. This state’s climate ranges from tropical in the north to temperate in the south, providing suitable habitats for different turtle species.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in Western Australia:

Pseudemydura umbrina (Western Swamp Turtle)

Pseudemydura umbrina, known as the Western Swamp Turtle, is one of Australia’s rarest reptiles. It’s a small, freshwater turtle that only lives in a few seasonal swamps near Perth, Western Australia. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: PseudemyduraSpecies: P. umbrina Common Names Western Swamp TurtleWestern Swamp Tortoise Identification DescriptionThis turtle is small and…
Natator depressus (Flatback Sea Turtle)

Natator depressus, commonly known as the Flatback Sea Turtle, is a unique species found primarily in Australian waters. It is distinguished by its relatively flat shell and is one of the least migratory sea turtles, staying close to its coastal habitats. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: CheloniidaeGenus: NatatorSpecies: Natator depressus Common Names Flatback…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Hawksbill turtles are medium-sized, growing…
Emydura victoriae (Victoria River Red-faced Turtle)

Emydura victoriae is a freshwater turtle species native to Northern Australia. It is well known for its adaptability to various aquatic environments and distinctive red markings on its face, which make it easily recognizable among other freshwater turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Emydura victoriae is a medium-sized turtle with a carapace length of…
Emydura australis (Northern red-faced turtle)

Emydura australis, commonly known as the Northern red-faced turtle, is a freshwater species native to northern Australia. This turtle is known for its distinctive yellow markings on the face and a streamlined body that aids its aquatic lifestyle. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Emydura australis is characterized by a medium-sized, slightly domed shell, typically brown…
Elseya kalumburu (Kalumburu Snapping Turtle)

Elseya kalumburu is a species of freshwater turtle found in northern Australia. Known for its distinct appearance, this turtle is primarily found in the rivers and streams of the Kimberley region. It plays an important role in its ecosystem and is part of the Chelidae family, which is characterized by side-necked turtles. Scientific Classification Common…
Elseya caelatus (Australasian snapping turtle)

Elseya caelatus is a freshwater turtle species known for its hard, sculpted carapace. This species is native to Australia and is often studied for its unique shell structure and ecological importance in freshwater systems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat This species prefers slow-moving freshwater systems such as rivers, streams,…
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…
Chelodina steindachneri (Steindachner’s Turtle)

Chelodina steindachneri, commonly known as Steindachner’s Snake-necked Turtle, is a fascinating species of freshwater turtle known for its distinctive long neck and unique ecological adaptations. This species is native to Australia and plays a vital role in its freshwater ecosystems. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: ChelodinaSpecies: Chelodina steindachneri Common Names Identification Description…
Chelodina oblonga (Northern snake-necked turtle)

Chelodina Oblonga, also known as the northern snake-necked turtle, is a distinctive freshwater species recognized for its elongated neck. This unique feature allows it to quickly strike at prey, making it an efficient hunter in its natural habitat. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelodina oblonga is characterized by its long, snake-like neck, which can…
Chelodina kuchlingi (Kuchling’s Turtle)

Chelodina kuchlingi, also known as Kuchling’s Turtle, is a freshwater species recently discovered and is notably rare in its occurrence. This turtle is particularly interesting due to its unique physical and behavioral characteristics, which differentiate it from other members of the Chelodina genus. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Behavior…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in South Australia

South Australia, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from the arid Outback to lush coastal areas, supports a variety of native turtle species predominantly in its riverine and wetland habitats.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in South Australia:

Emydura macquarii (Murray River Turtle)

Emydura macquarii, commonly known as the Macquarie River Turtle, is a freshwater turtle native to Australia. This species is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it one of the most widespread turtles in southeastern Australia. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Emydura macquarii is easily recognized by its short neck and smooth, streamlined shell,…
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…
Chelodina longicollis (Eastern Long-necked Turtle)

Chelodina longicollis, also known as the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, is a unique species native to Australia. This turtle is easily recognized by its exceptionally long neck and distinctive shell shape. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:The Eastern Long-necked Turtle has an elongated neck that can extend as long as its carapace. Its shell is typically…
Chelodina expansa (Broad-shelled river turtle)

Chelodina expansa, commonly known as the Broad-Shelled Turtle, is a fascinating aquatic species. It is known for its unusually broad and flattened shell, which distinguishes it from other turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Chelodina expansa is predominantly aquatic, favoring slow-moving waters such as swamps, rivers, and lakes with…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in Tasmania

Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Sea Turtle)

Dermochelys coriacea, commonly known as the leatherback sea turtle, is the largest and most unique of all sea turtles. Unlike other species, it has a soft, leathery shell rather than a hard one and can travel incredible distances across the oceans. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Leatherbacks are pelagic,…
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…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

Native turtles in Northern Territory

The Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, with its tropical and subtropical climates, encompasses vast river systems, wetlands, and coastal regions that provide ideal habitats for a diverse array of native turtle species.

Here’s a detailed overview of the native turtle species found in the Northern Territory:

Natator depressus (Flatback Sea Turtle)

Natator depressus, commonly known as the Flatback Sea Turtle, is a unique species found primarily in Australian waters. It is distinguished by its relatively flat shell and is one of the least migratory sea turtles, staying close to its coastal habitats. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: CheloniidaeGenus: NatatorSpecies: Natator depressus Common Names Flatback…
Myuchelys latisternum (Saw-shelled Turtle)

Myuchelys latisternum, commonly known as the Saw-shelled Turtle, is a freshwater species native to Australia. It is known for its serrated carapace, which gives it a saw-like appearance, and its ability to tolerate diverse aquatic environments. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelidaeGenus: MyuchelysSpecies: M. latisternum Common Names Saw-shelled TurtleBroad-shelled Turtle Identification Description This…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Hawksbill turtles are medium-sized, growing…
Emydura victoriae (Victoria River Red-faced Turtle)

Emydura victoriae is a freshwater turtle species native to Northern Australia. It is well known for its adaptability to various aquatic environments and distinctive red markings on its face, which make it easily recognizable among other freshwater turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Emydura victoriae is a medium-sized turtle with a carapace length of…
Emydura tanybaraga (Northern yellow-faced turtle)

Emydura tanybaraga is a freshwater turtle species native to Northern Australia. It is part of the Emydura genus, known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle and preference for slow-moving rivers and wetlands. This species stands out for its adaptability to varied habitats and its unique appearance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Emydura tanybaraga is a medium-sized…
Emydura subglobosa (red-bellied short-necked turtle)

Emydura subglobosa, commonly known as the red-bellied short-necked turtle, is a freshwater turtle species found in parts of Australia and New Guinea. Its striking red or orange underbelly makes it easily recognizable among other turtles in its range. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat This species thrives in slow-moving freshwater…
Emydura gunaleni (Australasian short-necked turtle)

Emydura gunaleni is a recently described species of freshwater turtle native to Indonesia. It belongs to the Emydura genus, a group of turtles known for their adaptability to diverse aquatic environments. This species stands out for its vibrant markings and distinct geographical isolation. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Emydura gunaleni has an olive-green to brown…
Emydura australis (Northern red-faced turtle)

Emydura australis, commonly known as the Northern red-faced turtle, is a freshwater species native to northern Australia. This turtle is known for its distinctive yellow markings on the face and a streamlined body that aids its aquatic lifestyle. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Emydura australis is characterized by a medium-sized, slightly domed shell, typically brown…
Elseya flaviventralis (Yellow-bellied Snapping Turtle)

Elseya flaviventralis is a freshwater turtle species native to Northern Australia. Known for its distinctive yellowish belly and its relatively large size, this species plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of its habitat. Though not currently endangered, it faces threats from habitat loss. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification DescriptionElseya flaviventralis is medium…
Elseya dentata (Northern Snapping Turtle)

Elseya dentata, commonly known as the Northern Snapping Turtle, is a large freshwater turtle species native to Australia. It is recognized for its unique physical characteristics and adaptability to different freshwater environments. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Elseya dentata prefers slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as rivers, creeks,…
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…
Chelodina walloyarrina (Walloyarrina Snake-necked Turtle)

Chelodina walloyarrina Chelodina walloyarrina, commonly known as the Kimberley long-necked turtle, is a freshwater species native to Australia. Known for its distinctive elongated neck, this turtle is a remarkable example of adaptation to its environment. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description C. walloyarrina features an exceptionally long neck that can be nearly as long as…
Chelodina parkeri (Parker’s Snake-necked Turtle)

Chelodina Parkeri is a unique species of snake-necked turtle found in Papua New Guinea. Known for its elongated neck and distinctive appearance, this turtle is part of the Chelidae family, which includes several other snake-necked turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description: Chelodina parkari is characterized by its long neck, which can be almost as…
Chelodina kurrichalpongo (Kurrichalpongo Snake-necked Turtle)

Chelodina Kurrichalpongo, also known as the Kurrichalpongo Snake-necked Turtle, is a freshwater turtle species native to Australia. It is known for its elongated neck, which can be as long as its shell. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelodina Kurrichalpongo has a distinctive long neck that it uses to catch prey. Its carapace is usually…
Chelodina burrungandjii (Arnhem Land long-necked turtle)

Chelodina burrungandjii, commonly known as the Arnhem Land long-necked turtle, is a freshwater species native to the Northern Territory of Australia. This turtle is noted for its strikingly long neck, which can be as long as its shell, and its unique aquatic adaptations that suit its tropical habitat. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Chelodina…
Carettochelys insculpta (Pig-nosed Turtle)

The Carettochelys insculpta, commonly known as the pig-nosed turtle, is a distinctive species of turtle known for its pig-like snout and flippers similar to those of marine turtles. This freshwater species is the sole living member of the family Carettochelyidae. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Carettochelys insculpta has a soft, leathery shell that is…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)

The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…

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