Chelodina mccordi (McCord’s snakeneck turtle)

Conservation Status:
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Chelodina Mccordi, commonly known as McCord’s snakeneck turtle, is a critically endangered species of turtle. This species is native to the Indonesian island of Rote and is known for its elongated neck and unique appearance.

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Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Chelidae
Genus: Chelodina
Species: C. mccordi

Common Names

  • Roti Island Snake-necked Turtle
  • McCord’s snakeneck turtle

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Identification

Description

Chelodina mccordi is characterized by its long, snake-like neck and flattened shell, which is dark brown to black. The plastron (underside) is lighter in color.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males typically have longer, thicker tails and a more concave plastron compared to females.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is endemic to the island of Rote in Indonesia.

Preferred Habitat

Chelodina mccordi prefers freshwater habitats such as swamps, ponds, and slow-moving streams.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

McCord’s snakeneck turtle is carnivorous, feeding on fish, insects, and other small aquatic animals.

Predators

Predators include large birds, mammals, and humans who collect them for the pet trade.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

The breeding season typically occurs during the wet season, although specific timing can vary.

Reproductive Method

Females lay eggs in nests dug in sandy or soft soil near water bodies. The eggs hatch after an incubation period, which can vary with environmental conditions.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Chelodina mccordi is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Threats

Major threats include habitat destruction, illegal collection for the pet trade, and pollution.

Conservation Measures

Conservation efforts include habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and stricter enforcement of wildlife trade laws.

Economic Importance

While not significant in economic terms, this species is highly valued in the pet trade, which contributes to its decline in the wild.

Interesting Facts

  • McCord’s snakeneck turtle can extend its neck sideways to catch prey.
  • It is named after Dr. William McCord, a herpetologist who described the species.

Research Studies

One notable research paper on Chelodina mccordi is: A New Subspecies of the Snakeneck Turtle Chelodina mccordi from Timor-Leste (East Timor) (Testudines: Chelidae) 

About Author

Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.