The musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus), sometimes affectionately referred to as the “stinkpot,” does not have the bright colors, bold basking behavior, and the instant name recognition of the more common basking turtles, like red-eared sliders and painted turtles. However, the musk turtle is a fascinating aquatic turtle species that is arguably a much better captive for the average turtle...

The painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) is not your average aquatic turtle. This species (including its various subspecies) has the largest range of any north American turtle, and can found in suitable habitats from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast of North America. It is also colorful, outgoing, moderately-sized, and very undemanding. Let’s take a closer look at painted turtles and see whether...

While red eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) are native only to the southern US and northern Mexico, they are undoubtedly the most popular aquatic pet turtle species worldwide. Of course, this makes sense when you consider this specie’s virtues. First off, it is strikingly colored, with attractive striping of the head and neck and a bright red “red ear” that gives rise to this...

I like box turtles and tortoises, but I have a real soft spot for aquatic turtles. Maybe it’s their color, manageable size, or simply all the fond memories I have of stalking them along the waters edge as a kid. Or perhaps it’s their inquisitive nature – like how much it seems they recognize you when you approach with food. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that aquatic...

Pet turtles are part of growing up for many kids, but many adults (cough cough) remain enamored by them as well. This begs the question for many would-be turtle keepers, why keep turtles as pets anyway? The question is a good one, and I hope to do it some justice. Pet Turtles Are Very Engaging Turtles – especially aquatic turtles – are some of the most outgoing and inquisitive of all of...