Painted terrapin

Named for the presence of a red strip on their shell during breeding season!

Daiju Azuma

Unlike many other turtles, painted terrapin cannot release excess salt from its body, limiting them only to freshwater habitats. These turtles can be naturally found in countries like Thailand, Sumatra, and Borneo, but they are now spread worldwide due to their global trade.

Despite what their name suggests, they are very dull-colored throughout the year and only become brightly colored during the breeding season when they develop a bright red colored strip on their shell. Due to their increasing global trade and rapid habitat destruction, the species is Critically endangered.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Brunei
2018
Indonesia
2018
Kalimantan, Sumatera
Malaysia
2018
Peninsular Malaysia
Thailand
2018

Did you know?

  • Painted terrapin was listed in The World’s Most 25 Endangered Freshwater Turtles and Tortoises 2011.

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (szie) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No