Wanted Alive!!!
By: Brianna Wood
Alabama Red Bellied Sea Turtle
Description
- Scientific name: Pseudemys alabamensis
- Adult turtles are approximately 1 foot in length
- Females are slightly larger with a carapace (upper shell) length reaching 13 inches.
- Carapace color may be greenish to dark brown or black with yellowish, orangish or reddish vertical markings along the side.
- The pastron (under shell) may be pale yellow to red with or without dark markings.
- Colors and markings are usually more intense in young turtles.
- The head, neck, and legs are marked with yellowish striping.
- Males have elongated foreclaws.
- A distinguishing characteristic of the Alabama Red Bellied Turtle is the presence of a tooth-like cusps on either side of the upper jaw.
Life History
- Male and Female reach sexual maturity around 4-6 years of age.
- Nesting occurs from May-July.
- Female turtles leave their aquatic environment and venture onto dry land to lay their eggs.
- Lifespan is unknown. Estimated to be 50 years.