Species Details

@herpguy

Keeled Box Turtle Did you see this animal?

Scientific Name : Cuora mouhotii
Family : Geoemydidae
Order : Testudines
Class : Reptilia
Phylum : Chordata
Other Name : Jagged- shelled Turtle,Keel-backed Terrapin
Habitat : Terrestrial; hilly evergreen and mixed evergreen forests
 
Description : Keeled box turtles are relatively small, growing to between 12 and 20 centimeters (4.7 to 7.9 inches) in length.

The shell of the keeled box turtle is brown to black in color and is highly domed with a distinctive keel down the center of each scute. The shell is also quite thick and hard, providing good protection from predators.

The keeled box turtle has strong, sturdy limbs that are well-suited for walking and climbing.

The head of the keeled box turtle is relatively small and rounded, with a pointed snout and a distinctive yellow stripe behind the eye.

These turtles are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including insects, snails, fruit, and vegetables.

Keeled box turtles are generally shy and will retreat into their shells when threatened. They are most active during the day and will often bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature.

These turtles can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They are often found near streams and other bodies of water.

The keeled box turtle is considered to be a vulnerable species due to habitat loss, over-collection for the pet trade, and hunting for its meat and medicinal uses.
 
Distribution in Bangladesh
References:
description written by: Durjoy Raha Antu,Department of Zoology, Jagannath University,Dhaka; information source:Khan 2018 (Photographic guide to the wildlife of Bangladesh). photo credit:herpguy(www.inaturalist.org/people/herpguy), photo copyright: iNaturalist. more information please contact with us.