The African helmeted turtle is a species of freshwater turtle which lives in temporary watercourses across Africa and Madagascar.

They are carnivores and will feed on a range of water-going invertebrates, birds and mammals which are seized at the water's edge.

These reptiles will deposit their eggs in to sandy soil where they incubate for 75 days.

African helmeted turtles are present in the pet trade.

Read on to learn more about remarkable reptiles.

Appearance

What does the African helmeted turtle look like?

African helmeted turtles are known as side-necked turtles. Their long neck is not pulled back in to the shell. Instead it is tucked along the edge of the shell to protect it from attack.

Their back is covered by a shell made up of hard scales. This is colored brown but may be discolored by mud or slime. The underside is colored yellow or cream with brown seams.

The skin on the neck, limb and tail are gray brown.

The African helmeted turtle is a small species of turtle with an average length between 20 and 32cm (8-12.5in) long with a weight of 2.5kg (5.5lbs).

Males and females are similar in appearance but the males have a longer tail.

Diet

What does the African helmeted turtle eat?

These animals are carnivores and will feed on invertebrates, fish and small birds. Carrion is consumed in small amounts.

They will wait at the edge of the water and ambush the birds when they come for a drink. Groups of these turtles have been observed working together to bring down larger prey items.

Prey is seized in the mouth and then torn in to pieces using their front feet.

Credit: Public Domain