Chicken turtle
A species of Chicken turtles, Also known as Eastern chicken turtle Scientific name : Deirochelys reticularia Genus : Chicken turtles
Chicken turtle, A species of Chicken turtles
Also known as:
Eastern chicken turtle
Scientific name: Deirochelys reticularia
Genus: Chicken turtles
Content
Description General Info
Description
The chicken turtle is similar in appearance to the eastern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta picta), but has an unusually long, striped neck that is close to the length of its shell, with a yellow stripe on both the forelegs and rear legs. It has webbed feet to help it swim. It has a distinguishable net-like pattern on its carapace. The carapace is pear-shaped, and is an olive to dark brown. Females are usually larger than the males, and males have a bigger, longer tail. Males also have longer front claws. At birth, chicken turtles are one inch in diameter, and adults reach from 10.2-25.4 cm. The chicken turtle is medium in size compared to other turtles. 
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Chicken turtle predominantly consumes a carnivorous diet, feeding chiefly on aquatic invertebrates including crustaceans, insects and mollusks. Occasional intake of aquatic plants supplements its protein-rich diet.
Appearance
Chicken turtle are medium-sized turtles with a distinctly long, narrow tail, covered in rough skin. They display an intricate yellow or orange net-like pattern on a dark, usually black or dark green, shell. The underbelly is often yellowish or cream-colored. Females are typically larger with a shell length of up to 28 cm while males have more colorful throat and jaw patterns.
Behavior
Chicken turtle is a predominantly nocturnal creature, exhibiting a solitary lifestyle. This species is semi-aquatic, adapting equally well on land and water. Chicken turtle's diet includes a variety of invertebrates, using an ambush tactic to prey. During mating season, it nurtures and protects the nest, demonstrating maternal instincts. Notably, it produces a unique call, distinguishable among its species.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Terrapins Genus
Chicken turtles Species
Chicken turtle 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
