Description
Also known as the Stinkpot, this small turtle reaches
a maximum of 14 cm carapace
length. It
has a light stripe above and below the eye on each side of the head
and a highly arched but narrow carapace.
Juveniles may have a prominent vertebral keel and scattered spots
or streaks but the primary colouration is gray-brown to black. The
plastron is yellowish to brown
with a
single hinge. The name Stinkpot refers to the turtle's
unmistakable strong musky odour which is most apparent when it is
frightened. Hatchlings have a light spot on each marginal scute.
Confusing Species
Painted Turtles also
have light
stripes on the side of the head but they have bright yellow or red
elsewhere on the carapace and
legs as
well. Blandings Turtles and Spotted Turtles have light spots or
streaks on
the carapace but these
markings are more
distinct and the carapace is
much broader
than that of the Musk Turtle.
Distribution
In Canada, the Musk Turtle is restricted to southern
Ontario and a few locations on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River.
It is distributed through much of the eastern United States as far
south as Florida and Texas.
Habitat
Preferred habitats are rivers, lakes and ponds with a
slow current and soft bottom where it usually inhabits shallow
water.
Reproduction
Maturity is reached at an age of three to four years.
Nesting occurs from May through July and most nests are dug within
45 m of water. Most nests are shallow and some clutches are laid
under logs or on open ground. Several females may lay their eggs
under the same log. A single clutch of usually 2-5 eggs is laid.
Hatchlings emerge in the fall at approximately 2 cm in length.
Like many turtles, the incubation temperature determines the sex of
the hatchlings.
Natural history
The Musk Turtle is generally nocturnal and rarely
basks. Most basking occurs under cover of floating vegetation.
Musk Turtles are bottom feeders. They forage along the bottom of
lakes and rivers feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and carrion
as well as fish eggs, minnows and tadpoles. Some individuals live
more than 25 years in nature.
Conservation Concerns
Although rarely encountered, Musk Turtles are
occasionally caught on fish hooks or injured by boats.
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