African helmeted terrapin

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

African Helmeted Marsh Terrapin, Marsh Terrapin, Helmeted Turtle, African Aquatic Sideneck Turtle Scientific Name: Pelomedusa subrufa

Basic Info

The African Helmeted Terrapin can reach up to eight inches in circumference. They have a unique "folding" neck, which makes them very interesting animals. The African Helmeted Terrapin can be found primarily in Senegal. In fact, it is the most common turtle in the country. The swamps in which they usually live are often temporary - present in the rainy season and gone when the dry season comes.

Health

N/A

Habitat

Swampy areas

Behavior

The African Helmeted Terrapin is sometimes known as the African Helmeted Marsh Terrapin, Marsh Terrapin, Helmeted Turtle, or African Aquatic Sideneck Turtle. They are unique, intelligent animals, which can make excellent pets for both beginning and experienced hobbyists. Primarily aquatic, the African Helmeted Terrapin spends most of its time in or near water. They usually make their homes in swampy areas. African Helmeted Terrapins are from moderately hot, humid regions and prefer temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit. African Helmeted Terrapins are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. When not in the water, they are usually foraging for food or basking in the sun. The African Helmeted Terrapin should be kept at temperatures of between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 70 and 75 degrees at night. They should be provided with a basking area of around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The relative humidity in the enclosure should be around 70%. The turtle's enclosure should be at least 30 to 40 gallons. The African Helmeted Terrapin can be fed on crickets, waxworms, mealworms, small fish, aquatic plants and dark leafy greens like kale and collard greens. Because African Helmeted Terrapins spend much of their time in water, they should have a fairly large water area. Only about 25% of the enclosure should be land, with gravel sloped to form a "beach."

Origin

Africa

History

The African Helmeted Terrapin can be found primarily in Senegal. In fact, it is the most common turtle in the country. The swamps in which they usually live are often temporary - present in the rainy season and gone when the dry season comes.

Common Foods

N/A