Stripe-Necked Musk Turtle

Range

Sternotherus peltifer can be found in the greater Mobile River Basin and Upper Tennessee River and Pearl River drainages from Mississippi to Virginia.

Habitats

Aquatic. Found in springs, streams, rivers, and other clean fresh bodies of water. Typically found underwater, on bottom, sometimes up to 20 feet deep. Occasionally can be seen basking on tree branches above water. Only terrestrial when nesting.

Identification

Sternotherus peltifer has a round low carapace with flared margins. It has distinct stripes on the side of the head and neck with a reticulated pattern on the top of the head. It has small paired gular scutes, and a single pair of neck barbels.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians