Terrapins Main Page
Turtles Main Page



Scientific Name : Heosemys spinosa

General Characteristics : Spiny terrapin is a small snapping turtle. Its shell is quite flat. The scales on its shell hunch as a ridge at the center of its back. The bristly scales at its shell edge are like a gear wheel and will be indistinct after grown-up. When it is mature, there will be a shell on its back. Its shell length is around 20 centimeters measured along its back from scales above neck to scales above tail.

Habitat / Food : It is classified in the group of snapping turtle. It is found only in the southern region of Thailand as well as in Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo. Its foods are vegetables, fruits and carrion.

Behavior / Mating : Its natural breeding is very minimal.

Current Status : It is a protected animal of Thailand under Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act B.E. 2535.

Visiting Location : Khao Kheow Open Zoo