Gibba Turtle

Meet a shy and small turtle: the Gibba Turtle.

The Gibba Turtle (Mesoclemmys gibba) is also known as the Gibba Toadhead or the Toadhead Turtle. It is a small turtle which can only be seen 'active' during rainy season or after a heavy rainfall. The Gibba Turtle is known to be active in shaded areas (rainforest) in muddy water holes, streams, forest ponds. So basically anywhere in the rainforest where it is cool and moist. 

Gibba Turtles have a variety in their menu: amphibians, larvaes, insects, worms, snails, (small) fishes, plant seeds and algae.

The Gibba Turtle is a small turtle with an average length of 20 - 23 cm. Most of the time it is difficult to spot them immediately as they are shy turtles who like to stay immersed under water. Their small carapace mimics also their surrounding perfectly (camouflage trick). 

The Gibba Turtle is seen here bending its neck sideways, thanks to this movement they are also known as snake-necked turtles or side necked turtles. Gibba Turtles are widespread in the Amazon area, but due to their size, camouflage and also being shy creatures, they are not often seen.