My Cousin: The Australian Snake Neck Turtle

The Australian Snake-necked Turtle is typically found in swamps, lakes, slow moving waterways, creeks and billabongs in southeastern and eastern Australia. This species may migrate overland during the summer months (December to February in Australia) and they are often found wandering on overcast days during this time.

The carapace may reach up to 12 inches in length. These are the most commonly kept turtle in eastern Australia; it is generally shy but wil adapt quickly into captivity and is the easiest of all Australian species to maintain. Newly captured specimens will musk, emitting a strong smelling liquid as a means of defense. This, however, ceases as they settle into captivity.

Their diet in the wild includes frogs, tadpoles, small fish and crustaceans. In captivity they will feed on vitamin supplemented raw meat, small mice, fish, and dry puppy chow. They will also even accept canned dog food.