MCCORD'S SNAKE-NECKED TURTLE
Chelodina mccordi
DESCRIPTION
McCord's Snake-Necked Turtle (Chelodina mccordi) is a unique species known for its elongated neck, which can be retracted into its shell. This turtle has a smooth, dark brown to olive shell that provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. It is primarily aquatic, spending much of its time in freshwater environments, where it exhibits a calm demeanor and is often seen basking on logs or rocks.
FUN FACTS
- McCord's Snake-Necked Turtle is named after the herpetologist who first described the species, Dr
- John McCord
- This turtle is also known for its unique feeding strategy, using its long neck to reach prey in narrow crevices, showcasing its adaptability to aquatic environments
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in captivity
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length30-40 cm
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- McCord's Snake-Necked Turtle inhabits freshwater rivers, lakes, and swamps. It prefers slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Wetlands
- Native Range
- This species is native to the northern regions of Australia.
- Continent
- Australia
- Countries
- Australia
- Diet
- This turtle primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates and small fish. Its long neck allows it to reach prey in tight spaces.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic invertebrates, small fish
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-3
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
1-2 kg
Weight
30-40 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown to olive shell with a smooth texture
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of McCord's Snake-Necked Turtle is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and pollution in freshwater systems. Additionally, climate change may impact their breeding habitats.
- Predators
- birds of prey, large fish, and introduced species such as feral cats
- Defense Mechanisms
- When threatened, this turtle can retract its head and neck into its shell for protection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon