Chelodina oblonga (Northern snake-necked turtle)

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Home > Turtle Database > Chelodina oblonga (Northern snake-necked turtle)

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oblong_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.

Other related species

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Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

  • Northern snake-necked turtle
  • Northern long-necked turtle

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Identification

Description

Chelodina oblonga is characterized by its long, snake-like neck, which can be almost as long as its carapace. The carapace is typically dark brown to black, while the plastron is lighter, usually a creamy yellow. Adults can reach up to 30 centimeters in carapace length.

Sexual Dimorphism

Females are generally larger than males and have a broader carapace. Males can be identified by their longer tails and slightly more concave plastron.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This species is native to northern Australia, particularly found in the regions of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

Preferred Habitat

Chelodina oblonga prefers slow-moving freshwater habitats such as swamps, billabongs, and rivers. They are often found in environments with abundant vegetation.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

Chelodina oblonga is carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. Its long neck allows it to ambush prey with a swift strike.

Predators

Natural predators include birds of prey, larger reptiles, and mammals. Juveniles are particularly vulnerable to predation.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the wet season, from November to March.

Reproductive Method

Females lay clutches of up to 20 eggs in sandy or soft soil near water. The eggs incubate for several months before hatching.

Conservation

Extinction Status

Chelodina oblonga is currently not listed as endangered but is considered to be at risk due to habitat loss and other threats.

Threats

Major threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and predation by introduced species such as feral pigs and cats.

Conservation Measures

Efforts to conserve this species include habitat protection, pollution control, and research into their ecology and population dynamics.

Economic Importance

Chelodina oblonga is of interest to the pet trade due to its unique appearance and behavior. However, trade is regulated to ensure sustainable populations.

Interesting Facts

  • The northern snake-necked turtle can stay submerged for long periods by absorbing oxygen through its skin and throat lining.
  • Its long neck not only aids in hunting but also in defense, as it can swiftly retract its head into the shell to avoid predators.

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.