Tortuga herradura
A species of Bearded toadheads, Also known as William´s side-necked turtle Scientific name : Phrynops williamsi Genus : Bearded toadheads
Tortuga herradura, A species of Bearded toadheads
Also known as:
William´s side-necked turtle
Scientific name: Phrynops williamsi
Genus: Bearded toadheads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Dick Culbert , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Phrynops williamsi, commonly known as William's toadhead turtle or William's South American side-necked turtle, is a species of turtle endemic to South America.
General Info
Lifespan
35-40 years
Appearance
The tortuga herradura is a medium-sized turtle with a slightly domed, rounded shell. It has a primarily dark, olive-grey coloration that may lighten with maturity. Its most notable feature is the white or yellow-lined design running around the edges of its scutes. The skin on its head, neck, and limbs matches the color of its shell and is relatively smooth. Like most turtles, it has no sexual dimorphism in terms of size or coloration.
Behavior
Tortuga herradura is a semi-aquatic species predominantly exhibiting solitary behavior. This species adapts well to various aquatic habitats, demonstrating the ability to forage both under water and on land. Unique traits include a specific hiding behavior, where the animal uses sediment to camouflage itself for protection or hunting. Mating activities are seasonal and generally observed towards the end of the rainy season.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Dick Culbert , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original