Common Musk Turtle
Sternotherus odoratus
Image by Jim Horton
Description
A small, elongate, drab turtle with light olive brown to almost black carapace; sometimes spotted with dark pigment. The carapace is smooth. Head is a large pointed snout with two light stripes along the side. Two or more barbells are present along the chin and throat. The plastron is small, has a single hinge and is yellowish brown with rectangular pectoral scutes.
Stats
Size
Carapace 3 - 5 inches
Status
Common
Similar Species
Eastern mud turtle
Diet
Musk turtles are omnivorous, consuming insects, crayfish, mollusks, small fish, tadpoles, carrion, and aquatic vegetation.
Habitat
Also called the stinkpot, this slow moving bottom dweller commonly has algae growing on its back. Sometimes referred to as a stinkpot, due to its ability to secrete a foul smelling musk from glands on the plastron. Found in still bodies of water and sluggish streams. Also occurs in lakes, ponds, bayous, and oxbows.
Reproduction
Also called the stinkpot, this slow moving bottom dweller commonly has algae growing on its back. Sometimes referred to as a stinkpot, due to its ability to secrete a foul smelling musk from glands on the plastron.
Common Musk Turtle
Common Musk Turtle
Sternotherus odoratus