European Pond Turtle

Emys obicularis

Lesvos, Greece - May 2006

European Pond Turtles are common throughout southern Europe and large parts of central Europe. In their natural range they are only likely to be confused with Balkan Terrapins, but lack the striped neck of that species. Young European Pond Turtles, such as the one in the above photograph, have a distinct central keel on their shell. This is lost as the turtles mature.