Black pond turtles prefer waters with dense vegetation that provides them with cover, as well as places to lie down and sunbathe. In summer, the animals usually remain submerged in the water or can be seen just poking their heads out of the water. In winter, they rest under bushes, in reeds and in dry leaves.
They do not reach sexual maturity until they are 6 years old. The females dig a nest up to 10 cm deep for their eggs. They often choose loamy areas of ground hidden under bushes and other plants. They lay 12 to 36 eggs in these nests twice a year after mating. The first clutch is often larger than the second.
| Classification |
Old World pond turtles (Geoemydidae), Geoclemys (3 species) |
| Habitat |
wetlands (inland), fresh and salt water |
| Behaviour |
solitary, crepuscular and nocturnal |
| Diet |
snails, dragonfly larvae and other insects, freshwater crustaceans |
| Weight |
6000 g |
| Carapace length |
up to 410 mm |
| Clutch |
two clutches per year, each with 12 to 36 eggs |
| Incubation period |
50 to 60 days |
| Life expectancy |
up to 20 years |
| Use |
eggs, meat, animal trade |
| Current population |
The species is rare in its natural habitat. Comprehensive counts are lacking. |
| At Zurich Zoo since |
2024 |
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Sponsors
|
L. Bülow + St. Hostettler, Glattbrugg |
|
R. Stössel, Seuzach |
|
J. + F. Martig, Baltschieder |
