Yellow Sppoted Turtle

  • Height: 80 cm
  • Weight: 4.10 kg
  • Best season: November – March
  • Sightings: 70%

The yellow-spotted turtle, also known as the yellow-spotted river turtle, is a semi-aquatic species native to the rivers, lakes, and wetlands of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America.

At the Curassow Lodge in the Tamshiyacu – Tahuayo Communal Reserve where our Eco Lodge is located you can spot them while navigating on boat excursions while they are busking on logs.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPCTION

Yellow-Spotted Turtle has a, distinct yellow spots on the sides of the head, particularly around the eyes, giving the species its name.

SEXUAL DISMORPHISM

Females are larger than males, while males have longer tails.

HABITAT

Prefers slow-moving freshwater habitats like rivers, streams, oxbow lakes, and flooded forests.

Found in regions with ample submerged vegetation and sandy banks for nesting.

OMNIVOROUS DIET

Plant matter: Fruits, aquatic plants, and algae.

Animal matter: Small fish, insects, and mollusks.

REPRODUCTION

Nesting: Females lay eggs on sandy riverbanks, typically during the dry season.

CLUTCH SIZE

Between 6–35 eggs, depending on the size of the female.

INCUBATION

Takes about 70–150 days, and the temperature determines the hatchlings’ sex.

BEHAVIOR

Often seen basking in the sun on logs or riverbanks. Excellent swimmers, spending much of their life in water. Social, often seen in groups.

CULTURAL AND ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

Plays a vital role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems by controlling vegetation and recycling nutrients. An important species for local Amazonian communities for its traditional significance.

CONSERVATION STATUS
  • Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to:
  • Overharvesting for meat and eggs.
  • Habitat destruction from deforestation and river damming.
  • Illegal pet trade.