Description
Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtle (Elseya novaeguineae)
The Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtle is a striking freshwater turtle recognised for the beautiful pink to reddish colouration that can develop across the underside of the shell, particularly in younger individuals. Despite its common name, this species is not one of the large North American snapping turtles. It is an active aquatic turtle with an attractive streamlined appearance and plenty of personality, making it a fascinating choice for experienced turtle keepers.
Habitat
Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtles are highly aquatic and require a spacious, well-filtered freshwater environment with plenty of swimming room.
- Enclosure: Large aquarium or suitable indoor aquatic enclosure with generous swimming space
- Water Temperature: Approximately 24–28°C
- Basking Area: A secure, completely dry basking area should be available
- Basking Temperature: Approximately 30–32°C
- Lighting: Appropriate UVB lighting should be provided over the basking area
- Water: Clean, dechlorinated freshwater with powerful filtration
- Decor: Driftwood, smooth rocks, aquatic plants and other sturdy furnishings can provide enrichment and resting areas
- Excellent water quality is essential for maintaining long-term health
Feeding
Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtles are omnivorous and benefit from a varied, balanced diet.
- Staple Diet: High-quality aquatic turtle pellets
- Additional Foods: Suitable fish, earthworms, insects, snails, shrimp and other appropriate aquatic foods
- Plant matter and suitable aquatic vegetation can also form part of a varied diet
- Juveniles: Feed smaller portions more frequently while actively growing
- Adults: Feeding frequency can be reduced according to size and body condition
- Appropriate calcium supplementation should be provided where required
A varied diet is preferable to relying heavily on one particular food source.
General Care
These turtles are active, strong swimmers and are generally best appreciated as aquatic display animals.
- Temperament: Active, alert and inquisitive
- Handling: Minimal handling is recommended; like most turtles, they may bite when frightened or restrained
- Adult Size: Commonly around 20–30cm shell length, depending on sex and individual
- Lifespan: Potentially several decades with excellent care
- Activity: Highly aquatic and spends the majority of its time swimming, exploring and resting underwater
- Maintenance: Powerful filtration, regular water changes, correct heating and UVB exposure are essential
- Their eventual adult size and long lifespan should be considered carefully before purchase
Why Choose a Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtle?
- Beautiful pink to reddish underside
- Attractive and unusual freshwater turtle
- Active and fascinating swimming behaviour
- Smaller and more manageable than true snapping turtles
- Excellent aquatic display species
- Long-lived with appropriate care
- Rewarding choice for experienced turtle keepers
With its distinctive pink colouration, active aquatic lifestyle and unusual appearance, the Pink-Bellied Snapping Turtle is a fantastic species for an experienced keeper able to provide excellent water quality, ample swimming space and lifelong care.
Payment & Security
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.