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African Helmeted Turtle

Place of Origin and Range	The African Helmeted turtle also known as the marsh terrapin , crocodile turtle or in the pet trade as African side-necked turtle, is an omnivorous side-necked terrapin that naturally occurs in fresh and stagnant water bodies throughout much of Sub-Saharan Africa, and even in southern Yemen.
Description	It has a black or brown carapace (shell). The tops of the tail and limbs are a greyish brown, while the underside is yellowish. The male turtle is distinguished by its long, thick tail. A female tends to have a shorter tail and a broader carapace. A hatchling has a shell size of about 1.2 inches in length, and is olive to black in colour. It also has two small tubercles under the chin and musk glands in the sides of the carapace. Recent genetic research suggests that Pelomedusa comprises at least 10 different species, and not only one as previously thought. In the past the physical differences between populations were not regarded as substantial enough to recognise more than one species.
Morph Patterns Available	Yes
Adult Size	Can grow up to 10 in(20 cm)
Accommodation	A filtered semi-aquatic cage with water temperature at 70-80'F(21-26'C), and a sloping ramp(driftwood, textured plastic or some other non-abrasive surface) leading from the bottom to an illuminated and warmed basking spot. Approx 90'F(32'C). 2 x 4 feet for an adult.
Lifespan	Can live 10+ years
Feeding / Diet	These turtles mainly eat fish and tadpoles.There are a variety of foods which are universally accepted by turtles, which include earthworms, snails, slugs, grubs, beetles, and caterpillars.
Other Considerations	Watch for theses health concerns carefully with your turtle. Vitamin A Deficiency: Vitamin A is an important nutrient for your turtle’s health. It is found in his diet in the form of leafy green, orange or yellow vegetables, liver, and fish. If your turtle is not getting enough Vitamin A, he can suffer serious health problems. Always check to make sure that your turtle does not have swollen eyelids, as this is the main sign of a Vitamin A deficiency. Also, check for weight loss, nasal discharge and infected skin. Any of these symptoms could point to a deficiency. If you think your turtle may not be getting enough Vitamin A, you should take him to the veterinarian to get a firm diagnosis. Shell Problems: Your turtle’s shell is very important to his overall health. There are many potential problems that could occur, so you should be on the lookout at all times. Respiratory Disease: Respiratory infections have symptoms similar to vitamin A deficiency, including swollen eyelids and runny nose, so you should take your turtle to the veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis if you suspect either. More serious infections will be characterized by breathing through the mouth, mucus in the mouth, and wheezing. Always make sure your turtle’s environment has the proper amount of humidity, as this will help prevent respiratory problems.