#musk turtles

[uncharismatic-fauna]

Uncharismatic Fact of the Day

Watch out for the razor-backed musk turtle! This species is named for the distinctive peaked keel that runs down the center of its shell. As though that weren't enough protection, individuals will release a foul-smelling odor from their musk glands when threatened.

(Image: A juvenile razor-backed musk turtle (Sternotherus carinatus) by Sal Scibetta)

[antiqueanimals]

Florida Wildlife; vol. 12, no. 4. September, 1958. Illustration by Wallace Hughes.

Internet Archive

[daily-turtles]

Today’s turtle is the Eastern Musk Turtle!

Image source

[imjustsathere]

My lovely pets! 1 - 4 is my whites tree froggos 5 is Squirt and 6 is Boo

[daily-turtles]

Today’s turtle is an Eastern Musk Turtle/Razor-Backed Musk Turtle!

Image source

[daily-turtles]

Today’s turtle is the ​Flattened Musk Turtle!

Request courtesy of @phrog-champ

[daily-turtles]

Today’s turtle is the Common Musk Turtle!

[uncharismatic-fauna]

Uncharismatic Fact of the Day

True to its name, musk turtles pack a serious olfactory punch. Like skunks, these species emit a foul odor from scent glands on the underside of its shell when threatened. The chemicals released can also be used to communicate with other musk turtles- most often to attract mates or to claim a territory.

(Image: A flattened musk turtle (Sternotherus depressus) by James Godwin)

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