Can a sea turtle retract its head under its shell?
A sea turtle cannot retract its head under its shell as a land turtle can. Sea turtles have large upper eyelids that protect their eyes. Sea turtles do not have an external ear opening. Like other turtles, sea turtles lack teeth.
What are the scutes on the front of a turtle shell?
At the anterior of the shell there may be a cervical scute (sometimes incorrectly called a nuchal scute) however the presence or absence of this scute is highly variable, even within species. On the plastron there are two gular scutes at the front, followed by a pair of pectorals, then abdominals, femorals and lastly anals.
Why does my turtle have a lump on the side of its head?
If you notice lumps, bumps or swelling under the skin of a turtle, it might be a sign of an abscess. These can occur pretty much anywhere on a turtle. Turtles are susceptible to middle ear infections which can result in an aural abscess that can be seen on the side of their heads.
What happens to a turtle that gets hit by a car?
Wild turtles are commonly found on the side of the road after getting hit by cars and suffering from serious shell fractures. “Although shell fractures can be serious, the shell is bone and can be repaired.”
How to tell if a turtle is a softshell turtle?
If the shell/carapace is pliable and soft and the snout is elongated, then it is a softshell turtle. If the shell is hard, then it is not a softshell turtle. Move on to the next section. 4. Inspect The Scutes On The Shell Scutes cover the turtle’s shell. They are composed of keratin. If the turtle has 12 scutes, continue to section 6.
What is the upper part of a turtle’s shell called?
Upper part is called the carapace and the bottom plastron. On the turtle’s side plastron and carapace are joined together with bony structures called bridges. The inner layer of the shell is made out of bones. Including the backbone and the ribs. That basically means that the turtle can’t leave the shell.
What kind of turtle has a hinged plastron?
Both Blanding’s turtles and ornate box turtles have a hinged plastron that can come up to completely close in the head and front legs instead of just being able to tuck body away, like most other turtles. Painted turtles also have a smooth upper shell that is dark green, brown or black with light lines scattered throughout.
What kind of shell does a painted turtle have?
Painted turtles also have a smooth upper shell that is dark green, brown or black with light lines scattered throughout. The plastron is red or orange with a blotchy pattern that may fade as the turtle ages. The bright plastron is where the turtle gets its name.
