Common musk turtle
A species of Musk turtles, Also known as Stinkpot Scientific name : Sternotherus odoratus Genus : Musk turtles
Common musk turtle, A species of Musk turtles
Also known as:
Stinkpot
Scientific name: Sternotherus odoratus
Genus: Musk turtles
Content
Description General Info
Description
Sternotherus odoratus is a species of small turtle native to southeastern Canada and much of the Eastern United States. It is also known as the common musk turtle, eastern musk turtle, or stinkpot due to its ability to release a foul musky odor from scent glands on the edge of its shell, possibly to deter predation. These turtles are grouped in the same family as Mud Turtles.
General Info
Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Common musk turtle feeds primarily on a diet of aquatic invertebrates, such as snails, insects and small crustaceans. This voracious eater occasionally also consumes amphibians and fish, demonstrating diverse and opportunistic dietary habits.
Appearance
Common musk turtle is a small, semi-aquatic turtle with a roughly oval carapace. This animal has a scaly, bumpy skin, predominantly grey or brown with cream or yellow streaks. Females are typically larger than males. Their most distinct feature is the barbels on their rod-shaped neck and narrow, pointy snout. Their carapace is smooth and domed, lacking the characteristic ridges of some other species.
Behavior
Common musk turtle exhibits a predominantly aquatic and solitary lifestyle, primarily performing nocturnal foraging for small invertebrates. It’s distinguished by its omnivorous diet and basking tendencies. Its defensive strategy involves releasing a musky odor when threatened. Common musk turtle doesn't travel far, indicating limited territorial behavior.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Testudines Family
Mud turtles Genus
Musk turtles Species
Common musk turtle 
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