The Florida chicken turtle (Deirochelys reticularia chrysea) is one of the most interesting native Florida turtles. It nests mainly in the winter time. The eggs likely undergo diapause, which means that the embryos don't actually start to develop until they are exposed to warmer spring temperatures.
Chicken turtles primarily inhabit ephemeral (temporary) wetlands. They may wander from pond to pond to find the type of shallow water habitat they prefer. They feed on crayfish and dragonfly larvae as well as other arthropods, amphibians, and fish. Chicken turtles have long necks that enable them to strike prey at a surprising distance. In dry times, Chicken turtles may burrow in the ground to estivate.
Photo of Florida chicken turtle from Levy County, FL by Daniel Parker
USARK Florida
The Florida chicken turtle (Deirochelys reticularia chrysea) is one of the most interesting native Florida turtles. It nests mainly in the winter time. The eggs likely undergo diapause, which means that the embryos don't actually start to develop until they are exposed to warmer spring temperatures.
Chicken turtles primarily inhabit ephemeral (temporary) wetlands. They may wander from pond to pond to find the type of shallow water habitat they prefer. They feed on crayfish and dragonfly larvae as well as other arthropods, amphibians, and fish. Chicken turtles have long necks that enable them to strike prey at a surprising distance. In dry times, Chicken turtles may burrow in the ground to estivate.
Photo of Florida chicken turtle from Levy County, FL by Daniel Parker
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